I know it's one of the last things I should be thinking about, but could somebody help me shortlist some US MBA programs based on the student life experience?

I want to make the most of my time during my studies, both in terms of student life (availability of social activities, as well as proximity...) and networking potential?

I was considering UCLA, because it has great placements in the firms I will target post graduation (Adobe, Apple, Ebay, et al) but as somebody who has lived carless in London most of his life, the idea of having to get a car and then to drive it around southern California, just to network and meet people, seems to me absurd.

So I have started to look closely at the NYC schools (NYU and Columbia), I love the city and it obviously has a great nightlife and networking opportunities, but neither NYU nor Columbia seem to place well in the internet/tech/online retail spaces... So I am also looking for other suggestions!

Thanks!

I think this depends on the social activities you want. There is a trade off: you'll get the best networking in a more isolated campus setting. In a city-centre, people will get off campus quickly.

I wouldn't discount UCLA simply due to lack of transportation options. You can use use services like uber, certainly, or even normal taxis if you budget in transportation costs.

Also, carsharing: there are at least 5 Zipcar pods on the UCLA campus that I know of, maybe even more. Zipcar isn't that costly, and you'll get a discount just by being a UCLA student. Plus, they allow you to use the service with an international license.

Not saying it's not absurd that LA requires so much driving, but, if UCLA is the best school for you in terms of your career goals, then I wouldn't discount it simply because of the transportation hassles.

This is good to know. I had not really considered car sharing. Also, I've been reading about LA's metro system, and it seems there's a stop near UCLA. From what I can tell, service is not comprehensive (ie you can't get to many parts of the area with the metro) but it does go to downtown. That's something.

Hey, one more thing. What do you think of the MBAs at Seattle Foster and Carnegie Mellon, especially compared to UCLA? I am reading that they are also good for tech/internet placements, and maybe better location wise than UCLA.

I used the Metro bus service when I studied at UCLA Anderson, and it was fine. Don't forget sunscreen.

Hey, one more thing. What do you think of the MBAs at Seattle Foster and Carnegie Mellon, especially compared to UCLA? I am reading that they are also good for tech/internet placements, and maybe better location wise than UCLA.

Thanks will do. I'm still leaning towards UCLA, and am feeling less hesitant about the whole "getting around LA without a car" part.

It's certainly a major lifestyle choice and one that will make people think you are eccentric, but it worked for me. If UCLA is the best school for you, then don't hesitate to go there.

Ha, I don't mind being "eccentric!"