Feedback

aminassian7 · Posted: Tue May 13, 2008 2:03 pm Post subject: Feedback

Dear Stacy,

I would like your feedback on my situation. I am currently 35 years old and will be attending UCLA's masters program for financial engineering. It is a 1 year program. I have 10+ years experience in quantitative roles ( all on an analyst/associate) levels. I want to parlay my skill set into a management role in the near future after completing my grad degree, rather just being a "numbers cruncher." Ideally, I would like to look at EMBA because the age profile fits my age, but I have not had any extensive managerial experience which is what I think an EMBA is looking for. I want to consider Wharton's EMBA down the road, but since Stanford or Harvard don't have EMBA program, do you think that with a good GMAT score and good grad school grades, that I have a good reason to pursue those full-time programs? I greatly appreciate the insight.

Lisa Anderson · Posted: Wed May 14, 2008 8:20 am Post subject:

Dear aminassian7,

With the amount of experience you have, I do not think a full-time program would be the best choice for you. If you still wish to do the MBA after your current master's program, then I think an EMBA is the way to go. Part of the value of any MBA program is the classroom discussion and interaction with your peers. An EMBA program would provide you exposure to folks with similar professional experiences whereas a traditional full-time program would not have the same richness for you as the average age is 27-28. I would encourage you to reassess your career as you near completion of the financial engineering program to determine if you really need the MBA or if you can pursue your career goals with the financial engineering degree.

Regards,
Lisa

aminassian7 · Posted: Fri May 16, 2008 12:42 pm Post subject:

Thanks so much Lisa. I greatly apprciate the insight.