Seeking Advice on Undergraduate Pathways: Michigan CS + Ross Minor vs. NYU Stern BTE + CS/Math for VC Career

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's a breakdown of the two educational pathways you're considering and how they align with your venture capital aspirations:

University of Michigan (U-Mich) Pathway: - Strengths in Technical and Business Education: U-Mich offers a robust Computer Science program through its School of Engineering, paired with the opportunity to minor in Business at the prestigious Ross School of Business. This combination can provide a strong foundation in both technical skills and business acumen, which are highly valued in the venture capital industry. - Networking and Recruitment: U-Mich has a strong alumni network and is well-regarded in the consulting and banking sectors, which could be beneficial as you look to start your career in these fields before transitioning to venture capital. - Transition to VC: Starting in consulting, especially at MBB (McKinsey, Bain, BCG), or in investment banking provides a solid foundation in analytical skills and business strategy, which are crucial in venture capital. The experience and network you build in these roles can significantly aid in making a successful transition to VC.

NYU Stern Pathway: - Focus on Business Technology and Entrepreneurship: The B.S. in Business Technology and Entrepreneurship from Stern is tailored towards emerging intersections between technology and business, which is directly relevant to venture capital, especially in tech-focused VC firms. - Double Major Flexibility: The option to double major in Computer Science or Mathematics at NYU enhances your analytical and technical skills, making you a strong candidate for tech-heavy venture capital roles. - Strategic Location and Networking: NYU's location in New York City offers immense networking opportunities with numerous banks, startups, and VC firms. This proximity can facilitate internships and informal learning experiences that are invaluable for a career in VC. - Initial Career Path and VC Entry: Starting in investment banking at a location like NYC provides exposure to a large market and a variety of deals, which is beneficial before transitioning to venture capital. The experience gained here, coupled with an MBA later, can be a powerful combination for entering VC.

Overall Preparation for VC: Both paths offer strong preparation for a career in venture capital, but they do so with different emphases. U-Mich provides a more balanced tech and business foundation, which is excellent if you're interested in the operational and strategic aspects of companies you might invest in. NYU, on the other hand, offers a deep dive into business technology and entrepreneurship with the added advantage of being in the heart of NYC, which could be beneficial for networking and understanding the finance and startup ecosystem.

In conclusion, your choice might depend on where you see yourself fitting best culturally and professionally, and how you value the balance of technical versus business training in your education. Both pathways have strong merits, so consider where you believe you'll make the most of the opportunities presented.

Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/venture-capital/corporate-venture-capital-vs-independent-venture-capital-firms?customgpt=1, Is a CS minor worth it (Umich Ross)?, For undergrad, any major difference in outcome/prestige UMich Ross vs. Notre Dame Mendoza?, Undergrad: Will UChicago give me more opportunities than Michigan (Ross)?, UT Austin Business Honors+ Finance VS. Michigan Ross Direct Admit