Would an MBA get me out of government?
24years old. Canada (think territories, Sask, Manitoba).
Working FT since May 2021 (diploma date jan22). 8 months experience doing analytics and since January 2022 doing government procurement (not federal). I have spent 9 years doing all kinds of e-commerce, as well as things like Amazon FBA which I think is unique.
But at work, I do nothing all day, everyday, and learn no skills.
Being where I am I feel stuck - there is no good opportunities and it feels challenging to move to a bigger centre such as Toronto, Calgary, Vancouver given my experience (lack there of). I make 70k cdn, and will probably increase to 100k cdn in the next year. Great pension match, 2nd fridays off etc - yet I am bored out of my mind and can't keep doing this.
I graduated with a 4.0 and a 760 GMAT, but do I stand a chance at a top MBA with my background working in government opposed to IB,MBB candidates?
I'd be looking to matriculate Fall 2025 (4yoe), but really need to make sure I am making a good choice. Three issues arise:
1. Can I even get into good T15/Ivey/Rotman programs?
2. Will post-mba employers respect my background opposed to the aforementioned candidates?
- I would be paying cash. I got lucky with crypto and am worth about 1.2m canadian (900k usd). Of course some say I might as well just let this ride given even 10th percentile monte carlo, rather than spending so much money.
I had acceptances to a few pre-experience programs (LBS,LSE, USC + other euros - did not apply to MIT, Vandy, Pton), however, with 0 high finance (or big names of any sort), I felt I would struggle in comparison to other candidates who have spent their undergrads doing at least adjacent internships, so here I am.
Hey there! Based on the most helpful WSO content, it seems like you're in a unique position. You have a strong academic background with a 4.0 GPA and a 760 GMAT, which are definitely competitive for top MBA programs. Your work experience is also unique and can be spun in a positive light.
To address your concerns:
Yes, you stand a good chance at getting into T15/Ivey/Rotman programs. Your GPA and GMAT are strong, and your unique work experience can be a selling point. You're not the typical IB/MBB candidate, which can actually be a good thing. Admissions committees look for diversity in their classes, and your background can contribute to that.
Post-MBA employers do respect a wide range of backgrounds. It's not just about where you worked, but what you did and what skills you gained. Your e-commerce experience and government procurement role have likely given you valuable skills that can be transferred to other roles.
Paying cash for your MBA is a personal decision. It's great that you've done well with crypto, but consider the opportunity cost of spending that money on an MBA. You could potentially invest it elsewhere for a higher return.
Remember, an MBA is not just about the hard skills you learn, but also about the network you build and the brand you attach to your name. It can be a powerful tool for career transition, especially if you're looking to move into a different industry or role.
As always, it's important to do your own research and consider your own personal and professional goals. Good luck!
Sources: 3 years work experience in big 4, Ms Finance or MBA? Could you please give me some advice?, Entering from non finance background with an MBA, Admitted to HBS, not sure if I should go. What would I do with it?, Will I ever wear a $2000 suit ?
1. Yes, you'll have a decent application for Canadian MBAs if you have a good story. The classes are better rounded than just bankers/consultants. Some of the MBAs I've met come from government, media/TV and a whole host of backgrounds
2. See above, MBA is almost a reset and lots of Canadian MBA candidates I've met are pivoting industries. Ex engineers, SWEs, government, you name it pivoting into finance, consulting and the whole 9 yards
Try connecting with alum from those schools with similar backgrounds, you'll get good color.
Are my odds diminished for USA T15 given I lack a brand name?
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