1) University of Texas

2) SMU

3) Texas A&M

4) TCU

5) Texas Tech

I would target on top 3 with a strong emphasis on UT.

Re: Major, you should pick (in order):

1) Finance

2) Accounting

3) Engineering

4) Math

If you want to be real bold, graduate with a double major (Finance/Engineering). Regardless, take as much accounting as you can (a finance degree with all accounting electives would be a good strategy).

In high school, you should take as much high math as you possibly can. Plus, you need to become an Excel / spreadsheet pro ASAP. While you’re in HS, I’d find a job in data entry where you can start to build your spreadsheet skills.

Then, in College, you need to have a job EVERY summer (and maybe throughout the year as well) in a finance related field to further develop your spreadsheet and financial modelling skills.

If you don’t know accounting, finance and financial modelling COLD when you graduate, you won’t have a chance to get in to a quality IB. Also, do not apply with less than a 3.7 gpa so make sure you get A’s in college (you should skip the partier/fratboy/sorority girl track and get serious about your future).

One exception to the above is if you want to be an industry specific investment banker (e.g. Software, Healthcare, Energy). In that instance, you should consider getting a technical undergrad degree and some relevant work experience. That would go well with your finance/accounting coursework.

Then, be prepared to work your a $ $ off.

Good Luck.

I’m told the two best business schools for undergrad studies are SMU and UT-Austin, with Texas A&M running a close third. SMU is very, very well-known for it’s MBA program, but it’s undergrad school is excellent because the business law courses are taught by profs from SMU’s law school–which is about the best in the state.

Good luck!