I am looking to apply for a top ten MBA program to complement my Business undergrad degree and Logistics (supply chain management) experience in the military. I have a passion in supply and real estate (invested in three rental properties). I want to make at least $250,000/yr by age 40. Is this realistic? Is there a path? My concern is I don't have any "hard skill" degrees or experience and my "soft skill" business degree and MBA can't launch me as far as a "Engineer degree paired with an MBA".
I want to move forward and not go "back to school" more than two years unless it will completely re-write my path.
James
Answers
James, As with anything, first think about what you want out of any experience (job, degree, etc.) - think of this as your exit strategy.
An MBA can be a great experience where you will develop many skills, but will it get you what you want? Going to a full time program can be a great springboard, especially when you want to switch career focus. A top 10 program requires a good story, good grades, top notch GMAT scores, and a willingness to take on significant debt. Have you researched where grads are placed upon graduation (company, title, and average salary - if salaries are not for a specific degree, then they may be misleading)?
You appear to have marketable supply chain related experience. One option you may want to explore is getting experience in a supply chain role and attend grad school part time. You'd get corporate experience and a degree to boot. You may also be able to go to school on your company's tab (up to 100%). Another good alternative may be consulting.
Best of luck on your transition!
Howard
James,
If you want to stay local and keep working, Olin Business School at Washington University has a solid part time MBA (or you could just go full time) that has a 100% yellow ribbon program. In other words, if you are 100% Post 911 GI Bill eligible, you can go for free. Now Washington University in more a top 15-20 than a top 5 school, but it has great facilities and is very friendly to vets pursuing MBAs, plus supply chain is one of their big strengths.
Since it is only 30-45 minutes from you, it is probably worth a look. Let me know if you want me to get you in touch with anyone at the school, or other former officers in the MBA program (there are at least 20, and several more former enlisted as well)
Peter Kozelka
Peter.kozelka@gmail.com
Liz and Susana,
Thanks so much for your advice; I appreciate you taking time to mentor young people seeking out the second stage of our lives. My second question relates to age discrimination; currently I am 31 years old and will be 32 or 33 by the time of my exit. If I work an additional two years before I pursue a Masters Degree do you think that limits my chances of attending a top ten MBA School since the average age is 28?
Thanks in advance,
James
James,
I agree with Liz, before you embark on any education program, you want to find out how marketable you are right now and which degree and university will best support you in the field you want to pursue.
Reaching out through AdvisorNet is a good resource to start.
Best regards,
Susana
Hi James!
Many thanks for your time and service!
I admire your goals and passion! A suggestion would be to reach out to Corporate environments, where you can utilize your supply chain management skills. Get on line and apply to these jobs. For example, the pharmaceuticals or any logistic firm would be my start. Generally, these firms will help pay for your MBA where you can achieve your goals. If you like, I would be happy to review your résumé so that you can better market your skills sets.
Wishing you all the best!
Liz C.
lizcampanelli55@gmail.com
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