Constituents of mangement programs
Finding the Perfect Program
While you may have your favorite MBA program, there is more than one school that matches your learning style and will help you pursue your career aspirations with an MBA credential. Limiting your choice to the one “perfect” match is a mistake.
True, all MBA schools are not created equal—but it is also true, there are a lot of great options. Some schools have built strong reputations as “finance” business schools, while others focus on marketing or general management and leadership. Some MBA classes top more than 800 students, while others are smaller and more focused. Some favor lecture style classes, others are strictly case study proponents. Cold calling or the “Socratic method” of questioning seems to dominate in most programs. These are just some of the issues to consider as you begin researching your options.
Other key factors to investigate while researching your MBA options:
• Diversity. What is the school’s commitment to diversity—and how crucial is it to your decision? Does the campus support a diverse range of student clubs? How active are these programs?
• Faculty. Is the school’s faculty diverse in ethnicity as well as business strengths/acumen? Will you have access to a faculty advisor of color? As a Hispanic professional, will you have access to Latino mentors? Likewise, as an African American professional, you will most likely want to know that other African American students will be part of your student population. What percentage of time does the school require professors to be in the classroom versus consulting?
• Global Reach. If you are interested in international business, what options does the school offer? Do they have overseas campuses or programs in place? Is the faculty international? Does the school provide a way for you to get involved in an international “give-back” business program in which you share your business skills with a community in need?
• Entrepreneurial Track. Some schools have dedicated coursework / tracks for entrepreneurs. If you are considering launching your own business, this format may be a real benefit.
Many business schools will provide you with an outstanding learning experience. Your challenge will be to network with colleagues, speak to graduates of different schools, and research schools to uncover the school that best suits your personal and professional career objectives. Take the time to meet with representatives from the admissions and career services offices at each of your top choices. Sit in on classes. Talk to the students and ask for names of alumni so you can reach out to them. If information sessions are available, take advantage of them. You will find that you may have an immediate reaction (either positive or negative) to a school once you visit it and can envision yourself on that campus for two years.
Rather than focusing on the one perfect match, we encourage you to find at least two or three MBA programs where you could flourish and grow. Take time for self reflection. Think about what you want from your MBA, why you want to earn the degree (credentials, skill set, deepen your analytical skills, career transitioning, access to a life-long network of alumni and faculty, etc.). Look for the school where you are confident you can achieve your personal best. Where will you feel the most comfortable, yet stretch beyond your comfort zone? What is the right learning environment for you? Will you be exposed to not only academic faculty but adjunct faculty who come from the business world? While it may be the right school for your best friend, is it really the right school for you?
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