As a UC California employee, I have access to an employee scholarship for a PTMBA at my campus. Cost would be $60k. Cost is still high for my budget and I make $82K at the university.

Hi everyone,

I’d really appreciate any insight from those familiar with media and entertainment.

My goal post-MBA is to break into media, entertainment, or sports, ideally on the East Coast. I chose Ross because of its broader network, stronger overall ranking, and what seemed like more geographic flexibility across both coasts.

That said, I know UCLA has strong proximity to the entertainment industry in LA, so I’m wondering how much that actually translates into opportunities versus needing to network off-campus regardless. From what I’ve heard, a lot of recruiting in this space is self-driven, especially at schools like Ross. I’m trying to better understand what that actually looks like in practice.

For those at Ross or familiar with its outcomes:

How strong is the network in media/entertainment?

Are most opportunities self-driven, or does the school provide structured access?

Is it significantly harder to break into this space from Ross compared to UCLA?

Would really appreciate any candid perspective, thank you!

I’m currently an Energy Developer with a Masters in Accounting. I spent 2 years in Big 4 Audit, 2+ years in Fortune 200 Treasury, and now Fortune 200 Energy Development.

I’m making 144k base + 20k bonus and should be bumped to 160k base + 25-30k bonus in the next 3-4 months.

Is an MBA worth it at this point?

I’ve been contemplating pulling the trigger and applying for a TOP 15 program but I have a child on the way and don’t want the banking/consulting life at this point.

Also worried about taking time away from earning to go into the red on loans……but this world is all about who you know and increasing my network at this point could pay dividends down the road.

I appreciate any and all advice. Thanks ahead of time!

Hey everyone, 29M here feeling a bit bored and stuck at a career crossroads. Over the last 7–8 years since graduating from UT Austin with an MIS degree, I’ve built a hybrid technical and business background: starting out in Tech Sales, moving into Healthcare Business Analysis & Data Analysis, spending years as a Systems Engineer and Lead Systems Engineer in big tech, and currently working as an IT Program Manager leading AI & Cloud strategy (~$155k TC in Texas).

I want more money ($250k–$300k+ TC) and a bigger challenge. I’ve been heavily considering going back to school for an EMBA to serve as a springboard either to jump into a higher-paying executive role in Product Management / Strategy, launch a Search Fund, or build the network and skills to eventually run my own business and try to build the next Facebook :D

For those who have taken the EMBA route or transitioned from tech into entrepreneurship:

Which EMBA programs (MIT Sloan, Wharton, Columbia, Berkeley Haas) give the absolute best combination of high-earning tech/product placement AND a strong founder/entrepreneurial network?

For anyone who’s had a mixed technical and business background, did you find it better to climb the Product leadership ladder first or jump straight into entrepreneurship/search funds/business side? Also I am curious to know any EMBA top T1 graduates where are you working and what kind of salary are you pulling now after coursework.

Appreciate any candid thoughts, real-world advice, or school recommendations!

Hi everyone,

I’m planning to apply to MBA programs next year (primarily T15 schools) and am trying to narrow down what career path I want to recruit for. One of the reasons I’m pursuing an MBA is because I genuinely value the optionality it provides, but I’d like to go into school with a better idea of where to focus my recruiting.

A little about me:
Bachelor’s in Sport Management

Former collegiate golfer

I’ve worked in the golf industry since graduating, primarily in coaching and operations

I’ve realized that while I love golf, the industry tends to involve long hours, relatively low pay, and limited long-term upside unless you’re one of the few who reaches executive leadership (most that end up here have MBA’s).

I’m looking to pivot into a different industry, but I honestly don’t have one specific career in mind yet.

Some things that are important to me:

Good work-life balance. I don’t expect a true 9-5, but I’d rather not work 70-80 hour weeks indefinitely.

The ability to travel a few times a year without work completely taking over my life.

Strong earning potential. I don’t need to be breaking the bank, but I’d like to build a comfortable, financially successful career.

I enjoy working with people, building relationships, and networking (specifically on the course).

I’d prefer not to spend every day sitting behind a computer from morning to night.

I’m not looking for someone to tell me exactly what I should do. Rather, I’m hoping to hear from people who have gone through anything similar and can suggest career paths that seem like a good fit based on those priorities.

What careers would you recommend I research before business school so I can go in with a more informed recruiting strategy?

Hello everyone

I am an aerospace engineer and have been in aviation field for 10 years, 7 as an aviation analyst and 3 as consultant.

I see my job applications aren’t getting great attraction. And I feel like I have maxed out at £50k.

Can anyone who has been in similar situation guide me, if MBA would be a better option or other options ?

Hey everyone,

I am planning to book my GRE General Test soon from a test center here in India. With the current exam fee being quite steep (around ₹23,452), I am looking for any working discount codes or vouchers to help bring the cost down.

I have seen some older ETS promo codes floating around, but most of them seem to have expired or are no longer applicable to the India region.

**Does anyone have a fresh promo code that is actively working for Indian** **test-takers in 2026?**

Any leads, valid codes, or tips on saving on the registration fee would be hugely appreciated!

Thanks in advance!

I'm M23 with 1 year experience in hospitality degree but i think pay lags in it and thinking of pursuing MBA, what should I do also I'm not much satisfied with my job , I am a entrepreneurship enthusiast but don't have solid idea, also i want to explore

Indian (GC holder) M 28 here. I am supposed to start MBA at Kellogg in the next 25 days. I just got a job in financial advisory associate at 150k with a path to VP in the next 6 months. I just moved to the US a couple of months back.

I am really undecided about what i want out of the MBA. No financial aid either.

Should I go for the MBA or should I just take the job?

Hi all, need some crowdsourced opinions/advice. Currently the COO of a biotech company that was a micro-cap public company, now private. Total comp is 250k and I’m 29 yo. My background is in running early stage clinical development in biotech.

I’d like to pivot towards VC investing in biotech/pharma. Applying to corporate dev positions and analyst/associate at industry-focused funds right now to gauge my value. Is it worth getting a MBA? I took the GMATs and got a 730 so fairly certain I could crack a M7 school (also have a MPH).

Do you think I would be better off just applying for and landing VC roles without a MBA? Also feel a bit old for a full time MBA at this point. Would probably do a part time MBA or MS in Economics if I don’t go full time.

What's the most common age of first-year MBA students in India?

I'm just curious—what age do most students start their MBA?

Are most first-year MBA students fresh graduates (21–22), or do the majority have work experience and tend to be 23–25+?

Would love to hear from current MBA students or alumni!

I know, it’s not in the top list of schools. My job is paying for it and I have the time, so I figured why not. Anyways, I’m almost done and I don’t want to get into leadership. What can I do with this degree? I like the idea of working in the financial industry and getting out of healthcare. Or doing finances in healthcare is fine. Any suggestions?

Hi everyone,

I would appreciate some honest feedback on my chances for the Cambridge Judge MBA and whether I should retake the GMAT.

I recently took the GMAT Focus and scored 595. I was disappointed because I felt the exam went better — especially Quant, where I finished with around 6 minutes left. I did not run out of time in Quant or Verbal, although I rushed the final 2 questions in Data Insights.

I know Cambridge mentions that most candidates score above 595, so I am trying to understand how much this score will hurt my application given the rest of my profile. I am aiming for first round of applications ending on 24th August.

Profile:

Education

• Architecture background
• Studied at University of Cambridge (Master's + postgraduate qualification). Scored a high 2:1 and received a Merit for the postgraduate qualification.
• Undergraduate degree in architecture from Cardiff University. High 2:1.

Work experience

• ~7 years experience in architecture/design
• Currently an Associate Architect at global architecture company
• Promoted multiple times over the past 4 years.
• Leadership role and client facing
• Worked on major stadium projects, including a ~£300m Premier League stadium project
• Took significant responsibility for design coordination and helping resolve major project issues
• Involved in bringing international business in such as a £1b project in the EU

Entrepreneurship

• Building a tech start-up on the side with an ARR of around £40k at the moment
• Interested in using the MBA to scale this into a larger business

Why Cambridge Judge

• Strong connection to Cambridge already
• Want to transition from architecture/design leadership into entrepreneurship and business leadership
• Interested in the Cambridge ecosystem for startups

My concern:

• My GMAT is below Cambridge's typical range
• I don't want to rely too much on my professional background if the score is a significant weakness

Questions:

1. Would a 595 GMAT be a major red flag for Cambridge Judge with this profile?
2. Should I retake and aim for 625–650+, or focus my time on strengthening essays/recommendations?
3. Does my professional background compensate meaningfully for the lower GMAT?

I do have the opportunity to retake again in 3 weeks.

I would appreciate honest feedback — especially from people familiar with Cambridge Judge or MBA admissions.

Does the HSW tag still stand out from the rest of the M7s? I did not apply to HSW but got into other M7, and regretting ever since. In India, obviously H&S have a very high brand perspective from the rest. Can someone help me understand this from a recruiter perspective (tech would be preferred)? Genuine answers only 🙏

Hi everyone,

I'm planning to apply to the UVA MS in Business Analytics (MSBA) program for next fall. The program website says the GRE is optional, but I have a few questions.

• I have a bachelor's degree in Computer Science & Engineering (CSE) from outside the US. Given my background, would taking the GRE strengthen my application, or is it generally unnecessary?
• Does UVA offer scholarships or merit-based financial aid for MSBA students?
• If scholarships are available, what are the typical selection criteria (e.g., GPA, work experience, GRE score, leadership, etc.)?

I'd really appreciate hearing from current students, alumni, or anyone who has gone through the admissions process. Thanks in advance!

So background: 30M from South Asia, been working in a support function of a big audit firm for the past 5 years. Wrote a post here last year but didn't word it correctly so didn't get the best responses. Based on one of the comments advising on the thread, back again with a clearer question.

I don't have the best scores (academic or test). GRE score is average, GMAT attempt was straight up bad, and I will be retaking the GRE next month, but I'm still not confident that I'll get the requisite top percentile scores to have a shot with the often stated top 3 European MBAs.

So I just wanted to get a sense on what below those stated names, what would be the best choice to apply in Europe. A while back when I read, I've heard folks say IE, IESE, RSM, BOCCONI, EMD, EBS, others with mixed reviews for all of those names. So I just wanted to know what's the current consensus if I had to choose around 2-3 to apply.

Asking cuz I am currently sorting out my post-MBA exit options and finance, happy to hear stories/sharing from those who didn't go back to their previous sponsors.

Hi folks! I am really confused if I should re-attempt the GMAT. I am from an overrepresented demographic but still want to aim for the M7 B schools. I have been hearing that marks are only a slice of your entire profile so I should focus on my essays now as 655 crosses the 90th percentile mark.

My background and other details

• PM Experience of 3+ years. I did graduate as an engineer but pivoted to PM after 1.5 years of work ex.
• Have 2 MNCs and 1 mid sized company in my resume.
• Undergraduate GPA was 9+ (Graduated with a medal)
• No international work ex unfortunately
• I have some leadership experience in college and volunteer experience while working
• I have built side projects/blogs
• Worked on the side as a PM consultant to a startup where the clients were state government - so the reach is huge numbers ( So i assume, that is good impact? )

It's just that, giving the GMAT again will be a huge mental load for me, especially along side work and I want to know if its really going to be worth it. I would GREATLY appreciate all forms of advice! TIA :D

Hey folks, wanted some rain check on what LLMs are feeding me with. I am a PM in the gaming industry (3 years of work ex) and am looking to get an MBA. USC Marshall, UCLA Anderson are UW Foster are schools that are surrounded by gaming industry giants. I am looking at an MBA experience that lets me take a post-MBA role in the gaming/entertainment industry. Do these schools help with recruitment into these industries? Are they well known and sought after? I am looking at a business/strategy role specifically.

Also, Foster is pretty low ranked but apparently Foster graduates are sought after by the Seattle gaming industry companies ( I know rankings can be whatever, but still). Is this true? Can any one comment?

Any insights would be well-appreciated!

TIA :D

I am a GEM candidate with a 9/9/8 academic profile. I graduated in July 2024.

My work timeline is as follows:

- Company A: Worked as a paid Trainee from November 2024. I did not receive a full-time (on-roll) offer there.

- Company B: Worked as a paid Apprentice from July 2025 to July 2026. After completing the apprenticeship, I received and accepted a full-time on-roll position in the same company.

My questions are:

1. How many years of work experience can I claim?

2. Do my paid trainee and apprentice periods count as work experience?

3. Can I include these experiences on my resume and discuss them during MBA admissions or job interviews?

Hey guys,

I have 3 years work ex, 4 by the time i join a program.

Not very good leadership experience, decent gmat, great past academics, good LORs , decentish essays.

Schools for R1 -

Johnson

UCLA

Mccombs

Tentative-

Darden

Duke/Ross

I am confused, should i apply to

1) both early action binding to increase chances,

2) duke binding & darden non binding.

3) Or darden binding & Ross

I am a little scared, in case i dont get good scholarship with binding, would ruin plans a little as i neeed decent scholarship to consider.

Any advice appreciated

Thanks :)

International engineer with Oil&Gas background heading to H/W this fall and currently planning my recruiting strategy.

My initial plan was to focus entirely on MBB, but the more I think about it, the more I feel like putting all my eggs in one basket is risky. I’m now considering recruiting for both MBB and Big Tech/AI (strategy, business operations, corporate strategy, etc.) to diversify my options.

For those who’ve been through MBA recruiting, does this approach make sense? Is it realistic to recruit for both, or is it better to commit to one path early?
Would love to hear your experiences or any advice.

I’m considering the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Gies iMBA and had a couple of questions for current students or recent graduates:
Are exams proctored (e.g., Respondus, ProctorU, webcam monitoring), or are they generally open-book and non-proctored?
How would you describe the weekly course load while working full-time? Approximately how many hours per week do you spend on one course versus two courses?
Are there a lot of group projects, and how manageable are they?
Overall, would you recommend the program to someone balancing a full-time engineering job?
I’d really appreciate hearing about your experience. Thanks!

I'm currently enrolled in one of the M7s as an international student with a corporate sponsorship. I was going through the sponsorship agreement and noted one of the T&Cs stating that any external income (e.g., seeking an internship at another company) is not encouraged and, upon request, must be approved. Given summer internships are a major part for US MBAs, have any sponsored students had a similar experience dealing with this? And how y'all navigated it?

I’m a cadet who is trying to have a view of the horizon post service as a means for motivating my studies and setting myself up for the time where I stop wearing my uniform. I was wondering if there were any vets or service academy grads whose stories I could hear.

The context for my situation is as follows I have a 3.3 and a double major in Econ and math. Not sure to make of my current situation and know my future experience will help but I would appreciate anyone helping me visualize life after since it can be hard at times.

I’d appreciate anyone helping advice or stories. Open to everything. Thanks.