An MBA: make sure you know why you’re doing it

There are clearly three main groups of people who complete an MBA (Master of Business Administration):
- Those looking for a piece of paper to increase their opportunities
- Those looking for a learning experience
- Those looking for a career change
While I can’t say any one reason is better than the other, if you are choosing to do an MBA (which is a big decision and a big commitment), make sure you know why you want to do it as it will affect how you approach your studies.
If you are just looking for the qualification, then your focus will be on networking and setting yourself up for life post-MBA.
If you are there for the learning, choose electives that will push you, find like-minded students who will help you stretch, and most important of all, take risks. By risks I mean be the person who puts their hand up to answer the hard questions, push your lecturers for more detail, and take on leadership roles within your syndicate, and clubs.
If you are there for a career change, choose a wide spectrum of electives, sign up to multiple clubs that interest you and go to as many careers presentations as you can – and make sure you stick around afterwards and talk to the presenters.