Age Old Question - Is an MBA a Smart Choice for Me?

Hello!

I've read countless forums on this topic but am trying to solicit some perspectives unique to my circumstances. Today, I'm a MM IB Associate, with a good reputation at my firm. Prior to starting in banking, I was fortunate enough to score 750+ on my GMAT. I've long flirted with the idea of getting an MBA but as I get closer to pulling the trigger, the opportunity cost and "why" are really starting to hit hard.

While I have generally enjoyed my experience, I know I do not want to be in banking long-term. Mostly the hours but as many can relate, the work really isn't especially stimulating, and I don't see myself succeeding in the Director+ levels. I've really struggled with what I want to do post-banking, which is one thing I think an MBA could help with. However, the most likely scenario for me seems to be in the realm of "strategic finance." I'd love to work for a mid to late stage start-up for a company building a product I'm somewhat excited about. Hopefully the role would be broader than corp dev / FP&A modeling and could help me continue developing a rounder set of skills than just transaction execution. 

Given my GMAT score, my experience, and my current tradeoffs with getting an MBA (most notably the opportunity cost), I'm only going to go if I get into a T10 program but is it worth it at all? It seems like a waste not to take advantage of my GMAT score... I've also contemplated having a candid conversation with my bank and see what opportunities there are for them to pay with a commitment post-MBA but that seems risky and I'm still left in banking afterwards and essentially spent 2 years getting my MBA to slow my progress at my current firm.

Thanks in advance for any thoughts you all might have and happy New Year! 

 

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