personal statement for mba

You don’t have to be working in the business industry to enjoy the benefits of having an MBA degree.  Having an MBA degree is usually associated with individuals who want to go up the career ladder because of the various opportunities this degree can offer them.  But, an MBA degree can also provide opportunities for those working in the government or the public sector.  People working in the government or the public sector can also enroll in an MBA program to further hone their skills and broaden their knowledge.  There are actually MBA programs that can give you a more in-depth look at how the government and public sector works.

The benefits of an MBA degree to those working in the government or  public sector

Generally, an MBA program provides its students with leadership skills.  These skills can help students excel in their fields or reach their career goals.  If you work in the public sector or government, you may have to handle or deal with communities or groups, especially when implementing policies. This is where strong leadership skills are especially needed, along with other basic skills that an MBA program can help develop –  problem-solving and communication skills.  If you wish to specialize in a specific field, opt for a specialized MBA program. This type of program can help you understand better specific issues that are usually associated in working for the government or public sector. Because such an MBA program focuses on a certain field, it’ll provide you with in-depth learning.

Enrolling in any type of MBA program can also expose you to individuals from different sectors, industries, and cultural backgrounds. Such experiences in a traditional MBA school can help you learn more about the people you might be dealing with as a government or public sector employee.  As such, you’ll get to know the problems and needs of various sectors as you interact with your classmates.

Selecting an MBA program

A regular MBA program can already provide you with knowledge and training that’ll help you as a government or public sector employee.  But, pursuing a specialized MBA degree can be better in the long run because you have to option to specialize in a field that focuses on the public sector and government. With a specialization in government and public sector, you are exposed to courses such as ethics, global economics, politics and government, and financial theory.  Mastering the basics of these courses can truly help you become a better leader and public sector employee.

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There is now no need to choose between an MBA and a law degree if you prefer both.  If you are equally interested in both degrees, you can enroll in a joint JD and MBA program.  The program lasts a year shorter than if you take the degrees separately. Of course, this refers to the full time joint program; a part-time program lasts longer, depending on your chosen number of credits per term.  The joint degree will also cost less than earning a Juris Doctor degree and a Master in Business Administration separately.

A short guide on enrolling in joint JD and MBA programs

As with any MBA program, you need to make a list of universities that offer joint JD and MBA programs. Research each school’s requirements, application system, and teaching methods. Some programs will require you to focus on only one of the two degrees on your first year.  Also find out about the history of a school’s joint JD and MBA program; some schools have more established programs, while some are just starting. Remember that  you will be meeting the minimum requirements of both degrees. So make sure that you are qualified for both schools of learning.  And, write your admission essay with the joint program in mind.

The benefits of joint JD and MBA programs

Even if you plan to focus on the business side when you graduate, a Juris Doctor degree will enlighten you about the legal aspects of business. This way, you are better suited for managerial positions; you are aware of how to work with, and not against, the legal system. If you have your own business, you do not need to constantly consult a lawyer for advice; you are already equipped with legal knowledge. On the other hand, if you want to focus on becoming a lawyer, you can still demonstrate what you’ve learned from the JD program by being a business lawyer.

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An MBA degree can help you in your quest for career satisfaction.  First off, you can improve your chances at a promotion, or you can gain more job opportunities.  Second, you have a chance to completely change careers if you feel like you are in the wrong industry. You do have to weigh your options before making that momentous decision. Remember, this is about the future state of your career.  So, examine your motivations and the scope of your interests. Doing so can help you figure out which MBA program is for you, be it dual, specialized, or the usual.

How an MBA degree helps in career changes

An MBA degree helps in career changes, from merely climbing the corporate ladder to shifting to a completely different industry.  Its indiscriminate acceptance of graduates from any college background provides non-business degree holders a chance to switch to the corporate world. Other MBA degree applicants are aiming for more subtle career shifts, such as a slight change in focus by specializing in Marketing if the former focus was in Accounting. The decision for shifting careers is also made easier by dual degrees because opportunities are more abundant.

What MBA program to choose when switching careers

Before applying for an MBA program, you have to study the rankings and reputations of MBA schools. However, judge each school not only by its ranking or prestige, but also by the offered MBA programs, and by the teaching methods employed by its faculty. You also have to consider the tuition and the availability of scholarships. Of course, the most important factor to consider if you are really aiming for that switch is for the school to offer the right MBA program for you.  The right MBA program will allow you to switch to a career that you really want.

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While an MBA degree opens more career opportunities, you can double your marketability with an MBA dual degree. An MBA program provides you with many options, in the form of specializations and different setups. You can take your MBA online, or during weeknights; you can specialize, for example, in Accounting. MBA dual degrees further enhance convenience and cost-effectiveness by helping you earn two degrees at the same time, and at a lower cost than if you earn the two degrees separately. To help you get admitted into your dream school, remember to write a personal statement for MBA that explains your need to take both degrees at the same time. The following are just some of the degrees you can take along with your MBA.

Master of International Management

A master of international management degree creates a great combo with your MBA.  While an MBA readies you for the corporate world in general, you will also need to be prepared to work with the international market in mind.  Through this program, you will learn to do business in the international sphere.

Master of Science in Biotechnology

If you are planning to be part of the biotechnology industry, a master of science in biotechnology will complement your MBA degree. You will be learning both theoretical and practical aspects of biotechnology through this program.

Master of Science in Financial Management and Information Systems

To be successful in the international corporate world, you have to follow trends in business. This means that you have to keep up with the latest developments in information systems technology. A master of science in financial management and information systems will combine business know-how with technology expertise. Together with your MBA, this degree can also make you more eligible for top positions.

Master of Science in Health Care Administration

If you want to work for a health care company or start your own, a master of science in health care administration is a great choice. Together with an MBA, you will not only learn how to manage a health care company, you will also gain insight into various health care services.

To be accepted into your desired MBA dual program, write a personal statement for MBA that clearly illustrates your plans involving the degree combination you prefer. Include in your personal statement for MBA why such a dual degree is perfect for your needs.

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It may be a surprise that business executives still want to add an MBA degree to their list of achievements. After all, they already have top positions. If you are a business executive, here are reasons why an MBA degree can still benefit you.

How an MBA degree can benefit a business executive

The fast-paced corporate world thrives on changes and developments. Even business executives seek to improve themselves.  An MBA degree can boost their marketability, giving them more job opportunities. For someone who still has some more steps to climb, the chances of getting a promotion is more likely with an MBA degree. Pursuing an MBA degree will also update the business executive on modern  business methods, or newly-discovered business concepts. This is especially helpful to executives who have graduated a decade or more ago. Businessmen do have to keep up with the trends to perform at their best.

What business executives see in an MBA degree

Business executives see an MBA degree as a means to add to, or to update, their knowledge. Generally, an MBA program will include strategic planning, corporate finance, accounting, marketing, and economics. For executives who want to specialize in a certain field, they can zero in on an area they prefer. Or, for executives who want to completely shift to another industry, the transition is made easier by having an MBA degree.

Finding the right MBA degree

Because business executives deal with bigger responsibilities in the office, they need to find an MBA degree that fits their schedules. For a business executive who has to work full time during the day, an online or a night program will be more suitable. On the other hand, if the business executive has a flexible schedule, a part-time program may work for him or her. If you are a business executive looking for the right MBA program, do not forget to research on the program’s reputation, teaching methods, and faculty.

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The convenience offered by an online MBA program is quite tempting.  However, you have to consider a few things before actually applying to this type of MBA program.  Believe it or not, an online MBA is not for everyone.  Refer to the following points to find out if an online MBA degree is right for you.

Before going for an online MBA

Unfortunately, scams over the Internet makes some degree offers questionable. Investigate the online programs you are interested in to know if you will just be handing your tuition to an online criminal. The best thing you can do is enroll in a well-known program, or in a program offered by a reputable university. You do not want to shell out a lot of money and effort without getting a genuine diploma for it.

Once you have proven the validity of the program, make sure that you can afford the tuition and that you are set to go through it for its duration. Though an online MBA is still cheaper than a traditional program, you can still shop around to find the most affordable fees. You also need to find out how you will learn through the setup. Learn more about the teaching methods to be used in the program. Remember that you will be working alone most of the time; an online MBA may not be for someone who learns better through interaction.

Benefits of an online MBA

An online MBA allows you to manage a personalized schedule. You can take your classes anywhere, as long as you have Internet connection. This enables you to keep your job and study whenever, wherever. An online MBA program is also cheaper than an on-campus program.

Have you considered the preferences of your prospective employers? Take note that some companies still prefer job applicants who have graduated from a traditional MBA program.  So, if your target company prefers graduates of brick-and-mortar MBA schools over online schools, enrolling in an online MBA program is not your best option. Before you make your decision, however, look for those who have graduated with an online MBA degree. Ask them about their present career and how they went through their online degree. If having an online MBA degree won’t harm your chances of getting your dream job, then an online MBA can still work for you.

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An MBA degree is a great investment. However, a few months or even years after getting the diploma, you may still be paying off student loans. There are ways that can help you pay them off in a shorter period of time so that you can soon enjoy the true worth of your investment.

Keeping a day job

While you are still studying for your MBA, keep your day job.  Instead of going for regular MBA classes, take the night program.  You can also take a part-time MBA program where you take less credits per term, or take classes during the weekends. This way, you reduce the amount of money you need to borrow through student loans because you have a steady source of income.

Using debt consolidation services

If you have several student loans to pay for, you can use the services of a debt repayment and consolidation firm. Through a debt consolidation firm, you only have to deal with a single payment deadline. Debt consolidation firms help you manage your finances better so that you could focus more on other important aspects such as your job or school work.

Making agreements with employers

You have to sign a contract to work for an employer in exchange for the company’s payment of your debts. This ties you down to the employer for a period of time, but the arrangement ensures that your debt gets paid while you still enjoy your full salary.

Aiming at loan forgiveness programs

Applying for a loan forgiveness program is another great deal when dealing with student loans. Certain universities offer such programs to their students who are working for low-paying jobs at non-government groups.

Making lifestyle changes

To better manage your finances and pay your student loans, you have to keep a budget. Sticking to a budget can help you save money that can be used to pay for your debt. Learn to avoid making unnecessary expenses and keep a financial record so that you can better control your spending habits.

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If you are an MBA student, you are torn among several priorities. Having good time management skills can prevent you from being frazzled, or from neglecting some of your duties.

Organize your schedule

A simple diary organizer can help you figure out a time for everything. You can list the things you need to do in a day, along with the details on how long it may take you to do those tasks. Reserve plenty of time for studying and doing homework or research. If you have a job, mark your schedule clearly on your calendar.  Making these markings will make you see at a glance when you cannot afford to go out with friends.

Make the right priorities

If you have decided to pursue an MBA degree, your studies should be a priority. If you have a job that finances your studies, you must also prioritize your job.  Because it is already difficult to juggle your studies and your job, it is best to know when to join your friends for leisure-related activities or not.  Inspect your coursework as well.  Find out which ones have projects or papers with earlier deadlines; you have to do them first to make sure that you submit them on time.

Do not procrastinate

If you do your work as soon as you are assigned to do it, you gain yourself enough time to ace it. Procrastinating just takes more time away from you. You have to follow the schedules you have set to avoid stressing yourself.

Do not obsess… have a life

Though your MBA and your job are priorities, remember that you have to unwind sometimes.  If you do not stop to rest, or to enjoy life once in awhile, you will get burnt out long before you can achieve your goal. Do not feel guilty about taking breaks. Think of it as a tactic to be mentally and physically prepared as you face more exams and assignments at your best.

Believe in yourself

Know that though it can be overwhelming, it is possible to finish MBA school even if you have a part-time job. With proper time management, you can get your MBA degree while working, and while giving your family and friends enough attention. Believing in yourself will help you get through difficult times.

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Prospective MBA applicants usually inquire about the university offering the program.  However, finding out more about the faculty and their teaching methods are also important in surviving any MBA program. Different kinds of professors utilize varying techniques, ranging from the traditional lecture to some experiential learning. The following are some of the teaching styles used by MBA professors.

Lecture

When you think of a classroom setup, this is the first thing that comes to mind: the professor is in front of the class, discussing and writing on the board. In an MBA class, this is how a professor passes on concepts and theories that the students will need later in the corporate setting. The lecture is also a venue for exchanging ideas.

Group project

Though some people can work better alone, group projects are assigned by MBA teachers to their students. Because you are all being trained to work in the corporate setting, you must learn how to deal with other people.

Case study

Case studies are given way ahead of time because they do require extensive research and analysis. Doing case studies is an excellent way of making concepts clearer by putting them in a more practical and realistic setup. Through case studies, MBA students learn to think more critically.  Instead of memorizing a bunch of facts, they have to analyze a situation and find a solution for it. Discussions, and even debates on case study findings, help in the development of the students.

Experiential learning

Experiential learning is the most hands-on among the MBA teaching styles. Students will have to use theory not just in an examination setup but also in a more realistic environment. This could be an environment where they will directly feel the impact of their decisions. MBA students will also develop skills in networking and management while going through experiential learning.

MBA programs will most likely employ several teaching styles. Even faculty members from the same school will have varying techniques.  An MBA program with many teaching styles is ideal because it caters to students with different ways of learning.  In the end, you still have to choose the MBA program with the best combination of techniques for you.

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An MBA degree can help you get promoted at work or get that dream job. Getting into an MBA program, however, requires much time, effort, and money so you have to find out if you are headed for the right career path even before applying. One way of doing that is to become part of the workforce. Aside from helping you figure out what career path to take, having work experience is actually a requirement of most MBA schools.

The importance of work experience

Not all MBA programs require work experience from their students. For your own good, however, try experience some work first before pursuing an MBA degree.  While working, you get industry exposure. This will help you figure out if you’re really fit to continue in your field, or if you need to shift courses or careers.  If you’re sure that you’re in the right field, it’s still good to have some work experience. This is because your experiences at work will enhance your understanding of MBA concepts.  If you want to pursue an MBA because you want to improve your career, your work experiences as reflected in your resume will help you get your dream job.

Submitting your resume

When you enroll in an MBA program, you may notice that admissions ask for your resume as one of the requirements.  This is how they find out if you have had work experience. Some MBA programs that require work experience might actually ask for more evidence of your employment. You can ask your employer to write you a recommendation letter, not only to give proof of your employment, but also to show what kind of employee you were, or still are.

Writing your personal statement for MBA

Your personal statement for MBA will give the admissions committee additional insights as to the quality of your work experiences. Emphasize the qualities you have developed in those jobs that also make you a perfect MBA student.  Include specific experiences that you have handled well despite their challenging natures. If you had several jobs, take the personal statement for MBA as a chance to explain why you changed jobs several times.

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