10 answers
Naina
Student
Naperville, Illinois
1
Question
10 answers
Dr. Kelly Desso
Protective Services
235
Answers
Somers, Connecticut
Updated
Dr. Kelly’s Answer
Are you wrapping up your final year in high school or about to graduate with your bachelor's degree? Earning a bachelor's degree in a specific field is a fantastic way to deepen your understanding of leadership basics, management principles, and business logistics. While the first response might not be incorrect about what you can pursue, bear in mind that if your career aspirations lie in human resources, finance/accounting, or marketing, there are specialized advanced degree programs tailored to these career paths. These programs offer a more concentrated curriculum compared to a general overview.
Different companies have varying views on the value of an MBA, especially when it comes to salary increases and experience for holders. In my workplace, any completed master's program within one's field is considered equivalent to "two years of work experience," even though combining undergraduate and master's programs typically takes six years of study. This is because most entry-level positions at my workplace require a bachelor's degree as a minimum qualification.
What are your career goals?
Align next school curriculum to career goals, not a degree title.
Different companies have varying views on the value of an MBA, especially when it comes to salary increases and experience for holders. In my workplace, any completed master's program within one's field is considered equivalent to "two years of work experience," even though combining undergraduate and master's programs typically takes six years of study. This is because most entry-level positions at my workplace require a bachelor's degree as a minimum qualification.
Dr. Kelly recommends the following next steps:
Amber Lynn, CFP®, CEPA®, CRPC™
Financial Planner
5
Answers
Woodbridge, California
Updated
Amber’s Answer
Hello Naina,
First off, let me extend my hearty congratulations to you on the imminent completion of your MBA. Remember, the world is now your playground! The key to carving out a path that aligns perfectly with your aspirations lies in identifying what you hold dear.
In my case, I found immense satisfaction in working within my hometown, being close to my extended family, maintaining a flexible schedule, making a positive difference in my community, and earning a decent income while doing so. However, these priorities were not all of equal importance. The first four held more significance than the last.
This led me to choose a career as a financial planner in a smaller community, specifically my hometown. I opted to work for a firm that encourages offices in such locations. The beauty of being a financial planner is that my income is directly proportional to my effort, giving me full control over it. The same principle applies to my schedule, allowing me to attend my children's events and be available for family emergencies.
Moreover, I take immense pride in the fact that my advice and work contribute to supporting the philanthropic individuals in my community, thereby fostering overall growth. I thoroughly enjoy problem-solving and continuous learning, but also cherish the opportunity to interact with people and assist them in achieving their personal goals.
I wish you all the best in discovering your true values and finding a career that fits you like a glove!
First off, let me extend my hearty congratulations to you on the imminent completion of your MBA. Remember, the world is now your playground! The key to carving out a path that aligns perfectly with your aspirations lies in identifying what you hold dear.
In my case, I found immense satisfaction in working within my hometown, being close to my extended family, maintaining a flexible schedule, making a positive difference in my community, and earning a decent income while doing so. However, these priorities were not all of equal importance. The first four held more significance than the last.
This led me to choose a career as a financial planner in a smaller community, specifically my hometown. I opted to work for a firm that encourages offices in such locations. The beauty of being a financial planner is that my income is directly proportional to my effort, giving me full control over it. The same principle applies to my schedule, allowing me to attend my children's events and be available for family emergencies.
Moreover, I take immense pride in the fact that my advice and work contribute to supporting the philanthropic individuals in my community, thereby fostering overall growth. I thoroughly enjoy problem-solving and continuous learning, but also cherish the opportunity to interact with people and assist them in achieving their personal goals.
I wish you all the best in discovering your true values and finding a career that fits you like a glove!
Joseph Ford
173
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Joseph’s Answer
I'm assuming your referring to a Senior in H.S. and MBA as a Masters. It really depends on the major you select in college. Not all careers require a MBA. Some people get there MBA because they believe it will increase the pay to another level but that's not always true. In today's world I would do more research before you think of spending the $$ for an MBA. But again, it really depends on the subject or study you choose in college.
Kristin McGinnis
1
Answer
Updated
Kristin’s Answer
Whether you are a senior in high school or college, I highly recommend seeking work experience before applying to MBA programs. Decades ago, it used to be more common to pursue an MBA directly after college, but nowadays, most MBA programs look for work experience first. It's invaluable to gain some experience working before spending ~2 more years in an MBA program. Those working years help you gather a perspective on what you do or don't like in companies, work, managers and colleagues - that way, you have plenty to reflect on in an MBA program, stories to exchange with your classmates, and ultimately, the motivation to grow and make pivots/adjustments for your career trajectory ahead.
Ultimately, getting my MBA from Northwestern University was one of the best things I've ever done in my life - not just for my career, but for me as a person. But - one step at a time! I recommend taking the time to start your career and reflect on what you want to get out of an MBA before entering into one.
Ultimately, getting my MBA from Northwestern University was one of the best things I've ever done in my life - not just for my career, but for me as a person. But - one step at a time! I recommend taking the time to start your career and reflect on what you want to get out of an MBA before entering into one.
Katherine Avery
Run a music studio and teach private music lessons; teach college-level religion classes
350
Answers
Spanish Fork, Utah
Updated
Katherine’s Answer
You could check out Ken Coleman's book From Paycheck to Purpose and see how it helps you with the vision you can build of your skills and talents that can give you the next steps.
Ron Llanes
Product Design & Development Engineer
17
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Ron’s Answer
Hello, Naina-
I received my BS in Mechanical Engineering and started pursuit of my MBA after 3 years of working. Looking back, I think it would have been better for me to have worked another 2-3 years of working before getting my MBA. The main reason is that many of the topics that you learn in Business School, especially the ones the deal with management and culture, would have been more applicable with more working experience. Additionally, working a few years after graduation could help you decide which area of business your MBA will focus on.
So, while I highly recommend that you pursue your MBA, you may want to consider working a handful of years before doing so.
I received my BS in Mechanical Engineering and started pursuit of my MBA after 3 years of working. Looking back, I think it would have been better for me to have worked another 2-3 years of working before getting my MBA. The main reason is that many of the topics that you learn in Business School, especially the ones the deal with management and culture, would have been more applicable with more working experience. Additionally, working a few years after graduation could help you decide which area of business your MBA will focus on.
So, while I highly recommend that you pursue your MBA, you may want to consider working a handful of years before doing so.
Vladislav Krasnov
Management consulting
7
Answers
Queen Creek, Arizona
Updated
Vladislav’s Answer
I would say that in general MBA does give you additional options for career development, but most of the time your experience would be more important versus your degree. Traditionally MBA would be most beneficial for developing your career in areas like supply chain management, operations management, general business management (business unit leadership, etc.).
Very seldom do I see MBA as a "hard" requirement for a job.
Very seldom do I see MBA as a "hard" requirement for a job.
Abhilasha Kayal
Client Manager
5
Answers
Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
Updated
Abhilasha’s Answer
Earning an MBA degree can truly empower you in numerous ways:-
1. Mastering Time Management
2. Broadening your knowledge across diverse subjects
3. Polishing your presentation skills
4. Excelling at teamwork
Ultimately, many companies highly value an MBA when considering candidates for leadership roles.
1. Mastering Time Management
2. Broadening your knowledge across diverse subjects
3. Polishing your presentation skills
4. Excelling at teamwork
Ultimately, many companies highly value an MBA when considering candidates for leadership roles.
Paul Marcel-Rene
Property Manager
8
Answers
Akron, Ohio
Updated
Paul’s Answer
An MBA degree opens up a wide range of opportunities across various industries and sectors. Here are several career paths and options for individuals with an MBA degree:
1. **Business Leadership and Management**: With an MBA, you can pursue leadership roles in corporations, nonprofits, or government agencies. Positions such as CEO, COO, CFO, or other executive-level roles often require or prefer candidates with an MBA due to their advanced knowledge of business strategy, finance, and management principles.
2. **Entrepreneurship and Startup Ventures**: Many MBA graduates choose to start their own businesses or join startup ventures. The comprehensive business education provided by an MBA program equips individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to develop business plans, secure funding, and navigate the complexities of launching and growing a successful enterprise.
3. **Consulting**: Management consulting firms actively seek MBA graduates for their analytical skills, strategic thinking, and ability to solve complex business problems. As a consultant, you may work with clients across various industries to provide expertise in areas such as strategy, operations, finance, marketing, and organizational management.
4. **Finance and Investment Banking**: MBA graduates often pursue careers in finance, investment banking, or private equity. These roles involve analyzing financial data, advising clients on investment decisions, managing portfolios, and facilitating corporate mergers and acquisitions. An MBA with a concentration in finance can be particularly valuable for these positions.
5. **Marketing and Brand Management**: Marketing is another popular career path for MBA graduates. With an understanding of consumer behavior, market research, branding, and advertising strategies, MBA graduates can excel in roles such as brand manager, marketing director, product manager, or digital marketing specialist.
6. **Supply Chain Management and Operations**: MBA graduates with a focus on operations management or supply chain management can pursue careers in logistics, procurement, inventory management, and supply chain optimization. These roles are crucial for ensuring efficient and cost-effective business operations.
7. **Human Resources and Organizational Development**: MBA graduates interested in people management and organizational leadership can pursue careers in human resources management, talent acquisition, training and development, and organizational development. These roles involve overseeing recruitment, employee relations, performance management, and organizational culture initiatives.
Overall, an MBA degree provides a versatile skill set and opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities. The key is to leverage your education, skills, and interests to pursue a career path that aligns with your professional goals and aspirations. Ongoing networking, professional development, and staying current with industry trends can also enhance your career prospects as an MBA graduate.
1. **Business Leadership and Management**: With an MBA, you can pursue leadership roles in corporations, nonprofits, or government agencies. Positions such as CEO, COO, CFO, or other executive-level roles often require or prefer candidates with an MBA due to their advanced knowledge of business strategy, finance, and management principles.
2. **Entrepreneurship and Startup Ventures**: Many MBA graduates choose to start their own businesses or join startup ventures. The comprehensive business education provided by an MBA program equips individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to develop business plans, secure funding, and navigate the complexities of launching and growing a successful enterprise.
3. **Consulting**: Management consulting firms actively seek MBA graduates for their analytical skills, strategic thinking, and ability to solve complex business problems. As a consultant, you may work with clients across various industries to provide expertise in areas such as strategy, operations, finance, marketing, and organizational management.
4. **Finance and Investment Banking**: MBA graduates often pursue careers in finance, investment banking, or private equity. These roles involve analyzing financial data, advising clients on investment decisions, managing portfolios, and facilitating corporate mergers and acquisitions. An MBA with a concentration in finance can be particularly valuable for these positions.
5. **Marketing and Brand Management**: Marketing is another popular career path for MBA graduates. With an understanding of consumer behavior, market research, branding, and advertising strategies, MBA graduates can excel in roles such as brand manager, marketing director, product manager, or digital marketing specialist.
6. **Supply Chain Management and Operations**: MBA graduates with a focus on operations management or supply chain management can pursue careers in logistics, procurement, inventory management, and supply chain optimization. These roles are crucial for ensuring efficient and cost-effective business operations.
7. **Human Resources and Organizational Development**: MBA graduates interested in people management and organizational leadership can pursue careers in human resources management, talent acquisition, training and development, and organizational development. These roles involve overseeing recruitment, employee relations, performance management, and organizational culture initiatives.
Overall, an MBA degree provides a versatile skill set and opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities. The key is to leverage your education, skills, and interests to pursue a career path that aligns with your professional goals and aspirations. Ongoing networking, professional development, and staying current with industry trends can also enhance your career prospects as an MBA graduate.
Laura Pinsent
Consulting Manager
3
Answers
Charleston, South Carolina
Updated
Laura’s Answer
You've received lots of great advice here! The other point I would add is that an MBA can help with a career change. For example, if you graduate from undergrad and then start a career in supply chain, but after a few years decide you want to move into marketing, getting an MBA with a concentration in marketing can help facilitate that career change.