Hi -

I've read a few of the other threads here and they have been quite helpful, however, I'm wondering if anyone has suggestions specific to my situation.

Here's my background: from the US, 30 years old, female, 680 GMAT, 3.53 cumulative GPA (3.7 Major GPA in Business Admin), 5-6 years experience in Marketing and Advertising w/ my most recent position a Global supervisor role at a media agency on a leading tech client.

Most of my network here has limited exposure to programs abroad, so they're mostly urging me to consider a US program. My main goal is to get international experience though, so I'm pretty set on studying in Europe, and specifically the U.K. So for me, brand recognition is key, along with a solid alumni network in the UK and US for post-MBA job placement. I'm not looking to completely change industries, but my goal is to end up in a marketing or brand management position, or possibly consulting.

That being said, I'm applying to LBS and Cambridge, but am afraid they might both be out of my reach, so I'm looking into a 3rd (and potentially 4th) school in case I don't get into the other two. I've mainly been looking at Cass, but have done a little research into Manchester and Imperial as well, and need some insight into which of these (or other alternatives) would align best with my goals. Imperial seems too technology-focused for me, and what I like about Manchester is the different types of business projects (consulting, non-profit, etc.) however I was hoping to stay closer to London. It's also a huge bonus for me if they have exchange opportunities.

Anyone have any good recommendations for me based on the above? Open to any positive or negative feedback. I really just want to find the right fit for me, and make sure I'm making the right investment.

Also, I have looked at some schools outside of the UK, like HEC and ESADE but haven't done a ton of research there, so if you have other suggestions, please send my way.

Thanks in advance!

Indeed, manchester does seem like a good fit. Bath, Edinburgh, Durham and UCD are also very popular with Americans. I guess Edinburgh has the biggest US alumni network of any UK business school because of its on-campus University of California program.