Jordan Smith
Senior GMAT Instructor
Hey everyone! I just took my final laps around the University of Pennsylvania campus, where I got my MBA at the Wharton School of Business. As I reminisce about my last two years here, I want to share my expectations, experiences, and whether it was worth it. So, let’s dive in!
First off, let’s clarify what an MBA is. An MBA, or Master of Business Administration, is a generalist degree that covers various aspects of business, including accounting, marketing, finance, and more. Unlike a specialized master's degree, an MBA provides a broad understanding of business principles, which can be incredibly beneficial for those looking to build a professional network or transition into traditional industries like consulting or investment banking. Recently, tech has also become a significant focus for MBA graduates.
At top programs like Wharton, the experience can sometimes feel like a country club. For many, it’s a two-year vacation filled with travel, parties, and networking opportunities, all under the guise of professional development. However, like anything in life, the experience is what you make of it. Some students dive deep into academics, while others use the time to explore different industries before committing to a career path.
The idea of pursuing an MBA had always been on my radar, but I often debated its worth. During my time at Deloitte, I attended webinars where business schools promoted their programs, and I was particularly drawn to Wharton. I remember being captivated by a slide showcasing students traveling to Antarctica to practice their leadership skills. It looked like an incredible adventure!
Additionally, a friend of mine, whom I greatly admire, posted about her experiences at Wharton, including attending Coachella with her classmates. That was the final push I needed; if she was having that much fun, I had to be a part of it! Beyond the allure of travel and networking, I felt a deep-seated need for the next chapter of my life. After structured periods in middle school, high school, and college, I was ready for another organized phase.
When I met with my senior managers for recommendation letters, they asked why I wanted to pursue an MBA. I couldn’t articulate a professional or academic reason; I simply knew I would regret it if I didn’t go for it. That realization fueled my decision.
After a grueling year of applications, I was thrilled to be accepted into my dream program—Wharton, with a double degree at the Lauder Institute. However, I want to share a few disclaimers about my experience. First, my entire first year was remote due to COVID-19. Second, I wasn’t particularly interested in the academic side of things, as I had already studied business in undergrad and was working in consulting. I wasn’t looking for a job since I was sponsored by Deloitte, and my primary focus was on entrepreneurship and starting a business while in school.
Let’s start with the pros. First and foremost, the people! I met so many smart, outgoing, and friendly individuals from diverse backgrounds. It was eye-opening to connect with people from various career paths, expanding my understanding of the possibilities out there.
There were also plenty of sports, clubs, and events. I joined the hockey team, played intramural soccer, and participated in the Battle of the Bands. Despite the challenges of COVID, I managed to travel to numerous countries, which was an incredible experience.
One of the most significant advantages was the access to alumni and professors. I discovered opportunities I hadn’t previously considered, such as financing options for buying businesses. With my prestigious MBA, I felt more eligible for these opportunities. Plus, during a time when grades didn’t matter, I could focus on these aspects without the pressure of academic performance.
Of course, there were some downsides. The administration and bureaucracy were challenging, as the institution had a long-standing way of doing things. The COVID-19 pandemic added to the confusion, with numerous rules and guidelines that sometimes felt excessive.
Additionally, I found some of the educational programming outdated. Certain classes seemed to teach concepts from the 1990s, while new ideas, like rolling funds, were barely acknowledged. Lastly, there was a prevalent FOMO (fear of missing out) culture, especially at Wharton, where competition for event spots was fierce. This pressure to attend every event could be exhausting and detracted from the overall enjoyment.
In short, yes and no. Yes, in the sense that I gained a new chapter in my life that significantly changed my trajectory. I know I’ll look back on this experience with no regrets. However, I didn’t get to experience many of the things I had hoped for. The leadership programming I wanted to attend was limited, and the Antarctica trip never materialized due to COVID. Some classes that I anticipated would be fantastic turned out to be average.
Interestingly, my goals evolved during my time at Wharton. Initially, I aimed to start a business, but I discovered an alternate path—entrepreneurship through acquisition. This pivot has set me up for a life I genuinely want to live.
This question is different from whether my experience met my expectations. To determine if it was worth it, I had to consider the costs involved. For me, the answer is yes. Given my circumstances, what I wanted to achieve, and my future plans, the MBA was worth it.
During my time at Wharton, I learned that an MBA isn’t always necessary to achieve specific professional or personal goals. If you have a clear focus, pursuing an MBA might even be a distraction. However, if you’re interested in the journey rather than the destination, an MBA can be a fantastic experience. It’s two years filled with exposure to diverse ideas and people, providing access to opportunities that can shape your future.
It’s essential to note that the true value of an MBA often unfolds over time. The relationships and knowledge gained can lead to opportunities years down the line. Recently, I received a job offer from an alumnus without even submitting a resume, solely based on our shared connections and trust. I can only imagine how much more common these experiences will become in the future.
Ultimately, I was someone who valued the journey over the destination, and I’m incredibly happy I embarked on this path. If you have any questions about the MBA experience or want to know more about my journey, feel free to reach out. And if you’re considering tracking your GMAT progress, platforms like GMAT Sprint can be a helpful resource to keep you on track. Thank you for joining me on this reflection!
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