I am sure some of my classmates who are readers of this blog would appreciate this blog entry (and its comments) by the value of an MBA. Thanks to Ian Lamont for the link.

There are many things that were said in the blog that affirm some of my perspectives:

• Getting a job in venture capital after graduating from B-school is very difficult.
• Whether degree reads SM in Management, MS in Management, SM in Management of Technology, or MBA, it really doesn't matter - it's all semantics. Personally, I think that the real substance is what you learn from school. Sadly, like Todd said "these days credentials and degrees are more important than knowledge."
• I couldn't agree with Chris Yeh more, the networking opportunities at top-tier universities (or B-schools) are enormous. Having access to alumni network and building relationships with a group of highly-talented people are some of the perks.

Finally, I have a few more things to add:

• Yes, brand recognition, career opportunities, people, and network are remarkable in top-tier schools. But I think that every school has its fair share of good and bad courses. I can say this because I have taken some the best classes I have ever taken as well as a fair share of horrible classes at MIT.
• Experiential learning does occur in b-schools. Try managing a large team-based term project, I find it more challenging than managing a team of professionals in a regular job (yeah, I am being facetious on this one).
• If you do end up in b-school, don't neglect to experience life beyond the confines of your classrooms. Instead of spending all your time studying or writing that term paper, budget some time to hang out with your cohort, join a club, engage in an activity, and most of all have a life. I have also noticed that most b-schools tend to be exclusive and are isolated from the rest of their campus. Reach out and get to know other students from other parts of college.
• Last but not least, as far as deciding whether to do an MBA or not, I have this to say. I think is more than just $100k and two years of opportunity cost when deciding if an MBA is right for you. Sometimes you just have to follow your gut feeling. If you feel that doing an MBA program gives you an edge and confidence in your career development, do it. If you feel that you have a great idea and wants to start a company, what are you waiting for? Start a new enterprise - Bill Gates and Steve Jobs did and look where they are now.

4/6/2006 3:32:46 AM (Eastern Daylight Time, UTC-04:00)

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