When I first decided that I wanted my MBA, I had an active 4-year old at home, an older home that I was slowly renovating, a loving wife that worked both in Early Childhood Education during the day and at the local community college at night, a standing commitment to my brothers at the Masonic Lodge, and a full time job in the public schools. I knew that the MBA was important to me, but was uncertain how to achieve it.
I knew that the traditional course would not work for me. Committing time during the day was impossible. I had attained my undergraduate degree from the local university, do following into my masters in the same college would limit my new learning (you should expose yourself to as many educators as possible during your education). Plus carving out the same three hours each week to meet in a night course was not realistic given my loaded plate.
I was also well aware that I did have the ability, and the drive, to work 12 months of the year on my degree. I could commit a few hours each night after my daughter went to bed, and had a few hours early each morning as well. I enjoy large amounts of writing, but do not perform well in a testing environment (I also feel that testing is set up to mimic reality- most organizations operate in team environments with good support, the opposite of the timed exam method). And I really like to read multiple view points on a particular topic.
There is the key. Knowing what works for you and what does not. As with many things in life, success comes much smoother if you sit down develop the list of criteria for the decision. This is even more important when you are looking to develop your next level of knowledge. Before you decide on any degree program (and this goes double for one that will cost you $25,000 to $50,000), make certain that it fits with your lifestyle, and with your strengths and limitations.
Intentionally setting yourself up for success is not only wise, but necessary.
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