Take the Money or Take the Dream School?

Hi Monkeys,

I haven't been here in a while but I've always loved the advice that this forum gives.

I am facing a bit of a dilemma that I would like your advice on:

I currently work in a F50 healthcare company after my MBA from a top 10 program. I've been offered A) an internal promotion to Director; B) an external Director role at a competitor; C) a fully-funded public policy masters (MPP/MPA) offer at a top program (think Harvard Kennedy or Princeton Woodrow Wilson).

Option C would be great as I think that I would really love the ability to spend two more years honing my knowledge of health policy and economics (I also like learning for the sake of learning). Additionally, in the long-term, I could see myself working in the public sector.

I am just struggling with the idea of leaving nearly 200K on the table for either options A or B. My head is telling A or B but my heart is saying C.

I would be graduating option C in two years debt free due to having paid off my MBA loans and the fact that the program (option C) is fully funded.

Any advice that you can provide would be greatly appreciated.

2 Comments
 
  1. A vs B - think about if you would love to stay in your current company - you already know the answer to this.
  2. A and B vs C - if they can hold your scholarship for couple years (or at least a year) and you enroll in the programme couple years later, then this is the best option. If they can hold you that director role for two years and wait till you finish your Masters, then this is also good.
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