For many, a degree from a prestigious university is the ultimate launchpad for a successful career, and securing that first job at a renowned company can amplify those prospects even further. To explore these aspirations, career.io, an all-in-one platform for career guidance and success, surveyed 3,018 young adults aged 18–25, posing two questions:
Which university would you most want listed on your resume as your alma mater?
Which company would you ideally want as your first employer to launch your career?
The goal was to uncover the ultimate combinations of education and employment that young people believe pave the way for the most lucrative and rewarding careers. The findings revealed unique preferences across states:
Among Wisconsin respondents, the ultimate combination was as follows:
#1 University of Wisconsin-Madison + Harley-Davidson
The University of Wisconsin-Madison’s strength in mechanical engineering and business programs pairs perfectly with Harley-Davidson, an iconic motorcycle manufacturer based in Milwaukee. Graduates have the chance to innovate in automotive design and global branding, reflecting Wisconsin’s legacy of creativity and craftsmanship.
The 2nd and 3rd favorite combinations among young Wisconsinites were:
#2 Marquette University to Kohl’s
#3 Lawrence University to Epic Systems
Choices from other states included:
California: Stanford University + Google
Stanford University, nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, is synonymous with excellence in technology and innovation. California’s youth see this as the perfect springboard into a career with Google, one of the most iconic companies in the tech world. This combination speaks to a desire for roles that drive global impact while staying at the forefront of innovation.
Massachusetts: Harvard University + Boston Consulting Group
Massachusetts’ selection of Harvard University and Boston Consulting Group highlights the state’s focus on intellectual excellence and strategic careers. Harvard’s global reputation for leadership and academic achievement is a natural fit with BCG’s emphasis on solving complex business challenges, a combination that sets the stage for ambitious young professionals to thrive.
New York: Columbia University + Goldman Sachs
New York youth gravitated toward Columbia University, an Ivy League powerhouse located in the bustling heart of Manhattan. The choice of Goldman Sachs as the dream employer reflects the state’s identity as a global financial hub, with young people envisioning a career that combines prestige, influence, and opportunity.
The survey also revealed some interesting insights when it comes to launching a career:
What Matters Most in Landing a Great First Job?
When it comes to landing that first big opportunity, internships, and work experience outshined academic prestige. While 13% felt that having a degree from a top-tier school is the golden ticket, 37% believed that hands-on experience is what counts. And for 50% of respondents, the sweet spot lies in having both.
The Proximity Dilemma: Prestige vs. Convenience
If it meant attending a prestigious university in another state, 63% of respondents were ready to pack their bags. Meanwhile, 37% preferred the comfort and convenience of staying closer to home, even if it meant attending a lower-ranked school.
The Keys to Long-Term Career Success
What’s the secret to a successful career? According to the survey, it’s not a prestigious degree (only 9% voted for that). Instead, 48% credited work ethic and adaptability as the top predictors of long-term success, while 20% leaned on the power of networking and 23% chose strong leadership skills.
Security vs. Growth
The age-old debate of job security versus career growth split respondents, with 56% choosing security and 44% prioritizing growth potential. For some, stability reigns supreme, but nearly half are willing to take a leap of faith for the chance to climb the career ladder.
Is Starting in a High-Cost City Worth It?
When it comes to starting a career in high-cost cities, young professionals were almost evenly split. Just over one-half (52%) said the opportunities are worth the price tag, while 48% weren’t so convinced. The results highlight the tug-of-war between ambition and the practical realities of those eye-watering rent prices.
Infographic showing the most popular university & employer pairs
“Having a good education and a strong first job on their resume is something young professionals continue to prize as a way to set themselves up for long-term career success,” says Amanda Augustine, career expert at career.io. “Our survey highlights how today’s professionals are balancing ambition, opportunity, and practicality to build the futures they want.”
