<p>I am a huge supporter of SMU with a kid there now, but even I have to agree that Wharton will get you further on reputation alone. However, I do know a student at SMU who passed up Wharton this very same reason, and has never looked back. You seem to be looking for permission to do this as well. College is not just about jobs. It’s an experience you get once Ina lifetime and travel abroad can be an amazing part of that. UPenn will earn you a great degree and a high power job wherever you want. You can’t go wrong there. But if it’s a full experience you want and Wall Street isn’t your ambition, then the SMU option is very attractive. I can tell you that SMU kids have great jobs both in and out of Texas. You might have to work a bit harder to get in the door, but you won’t be left jobless, I assure you. The owner of my company is from SMU advertising and we hire SMU grads all across the country. The alum network is huge. I think it comes down to reputation versus experience. Which one is ultimately more important to you?</p>