Should I get an MBA for VC after Tech PM?
Will be graduating from a mid-tier Ivy undergrad next May, and starting full-time in a top tech role (think Databricks/Stripe/PLTR/Google, in a semi-technical role). I spent a lot of time in undergrad involved with our investment group, double-majored in CS and Econ, and have over time realized that I'd be a lot more interested in studying macro trends across tech, rather than doing something operational.
I regret not pursuing tech banking/investing roles in undergrad. Am wondering if an MBA would put me in a strong position to pivot into these roles, and what my strategy should be? Would I only be a candidate for VC? Would any later-stage funds (GE...or tech pods within public equity funds??) pass me up post-MBA due to a lack of finance work experience pre-MBA?
Based on the most helpful WSO content, pursuing an MBA could be a strong move for transitioning into venture capital (VC) or other investing roles, especially given your background in tech and your interest in macro trends. Here's a breakdown of your situation and strategy:
1. MBA as a Pivot Tool
2. Targeting VC
3. Later-Stage Funds and Public Equity
4. Strategy for Success
5. Key Considerations
In summary, an MBA can be a powerful tool to pivot into VC, especially given your tech background and interest in macro trends. While later-stage funds may be more challenging to break into, a well-executed MBA strategy, combined with targeted networking and internships, can open doors to a variety of investing roles.
Sources: got into M7 deferred MBA - when should I go?, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/consulting/should-consultants-get-an-mba-8-scenarios-to-consider?customgpt=1, Lesser known MBA career options? Looking for advice on what to do post-HBS., Transitioning from tech to a serious finance job (yes, you read that right), Q&A: VP in Private Equity (Growth Equity + LBO)...Post-MBA...Formerly IB Analyst
MBA is useless unless you’re at Target FP&A and want to get into banking/consulting or you’re in PE and your firm is making you get an MBA to stay on.
VCs care about pedigree to an extent. You’re not at a top school but you are at a top growth darling, so that should give them enough to work with to hire you — if you’re an otherwise compelling hire.
If you’ve been paying even a little bit of attention, you would know that going to PE post-MBA without PE experience pre-MBA is next to zero probability.
To go to pod shop tech team, you’re wholly unqualified. You likely don’t know how to financially analyze companies, don’t have on the job mastery of accounting and valuation, etc. If that’s what’s you want, maybe go to Columbia for MBA. Will help. Pods will hire anyone that is hungry, smart, knows their stuff, and has money making potential — and maybe most importantly, can hit the ground running and is operational out of the box. No one has time to train you or wants to bother teaching you how to shake your pecker so you don’t piss on your pants. They’re not going to waste their time trying find a screwdriver in a landfill when there’s several dumpsters full of screwdrivers on their doorstep. So you’ll need to make it obvious to them that you’re not waste of time.
More broadly, figure out what you want to do. You’re all over the place. CS, semi-technical centi-corn, VC, PE, HF … why not throw orthodontist into the mix also, just to keep your options open.
Appreciate the advice, would you mind if we pm'd about this?
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