This is a recording of the free online webinar which was hosted by PrepAdviser on September 26, 2018. The following is a summary of key points that were discussed.
Anyone wanting to undertake an MBA can usually be categorized in one of the three options: career progression, career switch, entrepreneurial aspirations. First, you might feel like you’re at a stage in your career in which an MBA is the only way to break through to a senior level. Or maybe, you’re starting to notice job adverts, in which an MBA is a requirement. Secondly, you may be one of many looking for a change—a new role, a new industry you work in, or a new location. In some instances, it’s all three combined, which Cass Business School calls, “the triple jump.” Finally, some of you may have started a business that didn’t go as planned and you’d like to take the next step in the right direction. Whatever your reason, make sure that your decision reflects your future goals, and realize that the journey requires a whole-hearted commitment.
Remember to stay flexible and open-minded throughout your MBA experience—from application to graduation. Alex has talked to past students who’ve changed their career goals in the middle of their MBA. He comments that that’s inevitable, as you will be influenced by new people, exposed to new ideas and ways of thinking.
Also, make sure that you research the direction that the school is heading. Do you find it exciting, and in line with your own interests? Business schools create funds for innovative improvements to their school and curriculum. An alumni of Cass Business School has created a 10-million-pound venture capital fund investing in the school’s entrepreneurial field. Cass also supports their students by providing incubation facilities for startups in central London for 12 months.
From a networking point of view, logistics are important. Studying at a school that’s in a central location means that you will get to meet interesting individuals from a wide range of industries at walking distance from the campus.
Figure out how you learn best, and seek a program that corresponds to that style. For example, Cass pays particular attention to the hands on approach: offering an international consultancy week (in the past it has taken place in Iceland, Argentina, Vietnam), and as a team, you will offer a solution to a problem a real business is facing. Alex adds:
The result is putting into practice everything you’ve learned in the core modules. This is a live case study. It will give you a good benchmark to see how much you’ve achieved. And, the solutions you give to the company will often be ones they go on to implement.
Finally, tailor your learning to suit your future career goals. Each MBA program offers elective courses, and there are a couple of ways you can approach choosing them. One way is by doing them in concentrations like focusing solely on marketing, or entrepreneurship; or, you can be flexible and gain knowledge across a range of different fields.
Check Out: Tips for a Strong MBA Application (Quick Reads)
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