Long term career goal -

[msingh]

I would like some advice on how should i descibe my long team. Here is a my background -

I have @10 yrs experience in IT(Software Development), working in different roles and at different companies(rite from Internet Start-up to top IBanks in US).

I plan to apply for part-time(Flex time) program at Tepper.

My short team goal is to transition into High Tech Marketing, specifically brand management in tech product/e-commerce companies. such as Amazon, eBay & etc.

I know what i DO NOT WANT to do 15/20 yrs down the line. I DO NOT want to start a company. I prefer to work in the some company and climb up the ladder i.e become a Partner or etc...

I am not sure whow should i present my long term carrer goal. Can some one please advice how can i put my long team goal in the essay ?
Also what are your thoughts on telling that my short team goal is to transition into a Brand Manager, specially when i am currently working in IT ?

I really want to get into Brand Management, hence i do not want to lie.

Many thanks for your inputs.

[Tani]

You are right not to lie about your goals. It is never convincing. It is perfectly acceptable to say you want to rise to general management in a major corporation. In fact, I am often skeptical of people who say they will work for a company for ten years and then just move on to something entirely different and start their own company.

If you are planning to move to a different functional area you will need to convince the admissions committee that you know what that field entails. You will have to tell them why you think you will be enjoy it and why you think you will succeed. They are leery of people who are simply looking to escape a field that isn't satisfying. Think about going TO something rather than away FROM something. The difference between what you are doing and whre you want to go is great enough that you will have to be very convincing. Showing how you plan to use the skills you have built in ten years as a foundation for the next step will be crucial. Also, be sure you recognize that you will have to take a step backwards when you move to a new field unless you can find the ideal spot that builds on your IT experience.

Good luck,