Should i get an MBA degree from a top college?
I am a junior in college and am contemplating whether or not i should try to get into a top mba program like berkeley, stanford, or ucla right after i graduate. Thus far, i have a 4.0 GPA, worked as a shift manager in a food restaurant, worked as an accountant, and have done clubs and community service. I will be taking my GMAT in my junior year. I am getting a degree in accounting so i know i can get a job after i graduate, but my goal is to own my business or run a successful company, and i know i could do that with an MBA degree. Someone told me that it will be extremely difficult to get into a top school, even though i do have a good gpa, but i dont have work experience. Is this true? If i work as an accountant for a couple of years will this increase my chances of getting in? I am so confused on what to do: Should i pursue my dream in getting an MBA right after i graduate or should i work and hope i could still get my MBA? Thanks for any advice or opinions!
If i do get a job as an accountant work for a 1-3 years, will top mba programs like accounting as experience or do they want another occupation?
February 21st, 2010 at 12:08 pm
The top MBA programs won’t even look at you without at least two years of full time, post-undergrad work experience. And a couple years of working for someone won’t just help you get into an MBA program, it will also help you when it comes time to start your own business. The work experience will also help you figure out if an MBA is really what you want. Sometimes, life takes you in directions that surprise you. You’re so sure you want that MBA now, but who knows… give yourself the opportunity to find out what’s out there.
So, take the GMAT next year, but postpone applying for grad school until you’ve worked a year or two. Then apply.