Top 5 things I wish I knew before doing an MBA
The last 14 months of my Executive MBA have been a rollercoaster and deciding to complete an MBA for working professionals is not something anyone should take lightly. So, I wanted to share with others the top five things I wish I knew before I started:
The incredible value of education
Nelson Mandela once said that “education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” And the EMBA experience at Goizueta really re-enforces that point. It helps you realize how an appetite for learning can be such an incredible asset. A quick review of the monthly jobs report during our global macro class shows a clear difference in employment and pay levels at the different education levels. When you add the power of a Top 20 US school to the mix, the value of this education is truly life changing.
Beware of the things you don’t know
I was truly staggered to uncover this during my first few weeks at Goizueta. Our strategy class showed us how complex and difficult life can be in global organizations in today’s environment. We are all doing particular jobs in certain areas and think we know enough about other areas. In fact, nothing can be further from the truth. The Executive MBA program really humbles you in the first few months to what else is out there, what you don’t know, but most importantly learning where to go for help in those areas.
The power of a cohort
When you come through the door at Goizueta, you are entering into one big family that will become a central part of your life for the following 20 months and beyond. Everyone should invest in one-on-one conversations early in the EMBA program and really get to know your fellow classmates. They will push you further, and will be a resource and friend to you when things get tough. The comradery and connections are something that you will have for many years to come.
Less is more, the need to immerse yourself
This is by far the biggest thing I would advise anyone. Completing your MBA is a challenging task, so you need to limit distractions where possible. Many nights out with friends will be missed but the sacrifice will be worth it in the end. Be realistic with family, work and friends about expectations during the program. All the research we are shown at Emory how inefficient people are when they try to multitask. Closing the door for three to four hours and focusing on the task at hand is one of the most important things you can do. The ultimate results of these endeavors will speak for themselves.
Take on the difficult tasks
It can be easy to stay in your comfort zone and select modules and projects that you are most comfortable with. However, the biggest growth can come when you take on the most difficult tasks. Being completely stuck, with no solution in front of you and no experience in that area can be one of most incredible growth opportunities you can ask for. And the feeling of gratification by grinding, hustling, working with your team and figuring out an end result is a very satisfying and rewarding experience. It will encourage you to do the same in other areas of life, and this is one of the best growth opportunities you can get from an MBA experience. This will set you up for program and ultimate life success.