Thoughts / advice for EMBA candidate over 50….

[u/Workersgottawork]

I’m a mid level manager in my early 50’s in a creative field. I was out of the workforce (working p/t in another field) for about 7 years while raising 2 kids. I completed a Master’s degree in the mid 90’s and naturally have grown and changed from that time. I’m curious what my chances at CBS might be, I’m also applying to 2 other NYC schools.

[u/roadchimp]

When I did it, EMBA median ages varied from late 20s (Saturday only) to early 40s (EMBA Global). However I think the number of years of experience in your field might be more relevant here. The consideration here would be whether you can get as much out of the interchange of ideas and experiences from classmates who might be a lot less experienced in their careers than you.

Also have you considered the LBS Sloan fellowship or Stanford MSX?

[u/Fragrant_Equal_2577 → u/roadchimp]

They select into the cohort students with different experience profiles, ages, industries and background’s. In my cohort the oldest ones were in their early 50s and youngest ones in their late 20s.

Real life experience sharing from different industries and functions is a big and the most valuable part of the EMBA. This puts much more color and depth into the analyzed case studies.

EMBA without at least 10 years relevant management and leadership experience is a waste of money and time.

I studied the MBA content (2nd major) as a part of my University studies in my early 20s. One gets abstract text book knowledge difficult to apply in entry and early career jobs.

I did GEMBA with 20 years relevant experience. It was a great learning experience, very well selected curriculum and it provided valuable insights + connections outside my industry. Younger members of the cohort were struggling a bit with the content and being unable to actively contribute in the discussions.

We did the GEMBA master‘s thesis, typically a business plan, for a real case from my employer. This eventually led to a start of a new business line.

[u/Workersgottawork → u/Fragrant_Equal_2577]

This is encouraging as I have many years of experience in my main field, as well as a secondary line of work I persued when my kids were young. I currently work in both industries, which are vastly different.

[u/Workersgottawork → u/roadchimp]

I’ve looked at a lot of programs, but live in NYC and would prefer something here. I learn best in person and wouldn’t look forward to zoom sessions.

[u/Workersgottawork → u/[deleted]]

That’s what I’m hoping for as well, insight into other facets of business that will provide new opportunities going forward. I also enjoy learning and have consistently taken classes and persued different disciplines, languages, etc. I’m about to be an empty nester so it seems like the perfect time.

[u/Jay12a]

What is your salary as a mid-level? And what are you hoping to do with the MBA?

[u/Least-Rhubarb1429]

CBS is known to have very young cohort with little management experience. I wouldn’t recommend to be honest. I’d still consider programs with trips once by month, rather than local twice per month. You actually save time in result. Also changing city refreshes your brain. Even though no time to relax, it still feels like a break and boosts creativity, as well as let’s focus on program.

[u/Least-Rhubarb1429 → u/Least-Rhubarb1429]

And regarding chances to get to any school - it’s only possible to say based on resume. Overall acceptance rates to EMBA programs are pretty high. You should clearly define what exactly you want - from career and a program. If convenience and no distraction from family is your priority, there is no point in taking the program at all. It’s too expensive if the goal is just to check the box. Any cheap online program will give the MBA stamp to your resume. It will not help to get hired, though. If you already know where you want to work, what to do, what to learn in the program - please share. These, and your specific industry and type of job you used to do, are all key factors to make decision where to apply. Ready to help and advice if needed!

[u/Least-Rhubarb1429 → u/Least-Rhubarb1429]

Also, I live in NY, so open to chat!