Help Me Choose Cornell A&S or UChicago for Quant Finance (Math + CS Major)

user2756
Wed, 14 Jan 2026 16:36:27 +0000

I was fortunate enough to be accepted to UChicago EA and I also applied to Cornell A&S with triple legacy and a connection to a faculty member (I am expecting an acceptance, especially given the historical data from my school, but obviously nothing is guaranteed). I am highly interested in a career in Quant Finance, and would ideally like to work at a top firm out of undergrad (JS, Citadel, HRT, etc.). Obviously I know that this is extremely difficult regardless of the school, but I was wondering which would give me the better odds (assuming I also get into Cornell). I would major in Math and CS at Cornell and probably take advantage of some ORIE and Dyson courses as well. At UChicago, I would major in Economics and Math, and take CS courses alongside that.

Some other things I would prefer/like to have in my college experience (comparing the two schools):

Startup culture/general entrepreneurship opportunities

Connections/networking with alumni

Grade/GPA deflation (I know both schools are known for being extremely rigorous and difficult; which of the two would be easier to maintain a high GPA)

Prestige/reputation in specific fields of study (Math and CS departments’ strength at Cornell vs. Econ, Math, and CS departments’ strength at UChicago)

Overall prestige/reputation with employers

Campus-like feel and entertainment opportunities with friends (Greek Life, night-outs, etc.)

Thanks!