How I did it: Took the GMAT, completed a lengthy and multi-faceted application, and got into the school.  I started school part-time so that I could continue gaining work experience while I was in school.  After a while, I left my job to finish school full-time, and got it all done in 2 1/2 years.

Lessons & tips: This is not the golden ticket that it once was back in the day, but it can be immensely valuable if you make the effort to get things out of it that will help you rather than just going through the motions to "check the box."  Choose a school with action-based curriculum that takes from real-life experiences.  Take your work seriously and really learn the skills, frameworks, and strategies that will help you in the workforce.  Participate in clubs and case competitions to develop your skills and your network.  And clarify in your mind along the way what your career goals are and how the education will help you--that will help you to get the most out of what you are learning.

Resources: The University of Michigan Ross School of Business

Jul 18, 2009, 06:55AM PDT | 0 comments | 1 cheer