The thirties are actually a great time for professionals to take stock of where they are in their career and where they want to take it. Unlike the twenties, when many are still going with the flow with opportunities that come their way.
An MBA can be a good tool to make a big career pivot for both age groups.
Unfortunately, MBA after 30 starts looking like a distant dream to professionals. There are fewer top-ranking business schools to choose from, where the applicant’s average age does not make them an outlier.
And then there are seasoned professionals like Devika who know what an MBA can do for them at the current stage of their career, and they don’t let public perception sway their opinion about getting an MBA after 30.
She tackled challenges like test anxiety while preparing for GMAT, and then switched from GMAT to GRE. The score wasn’t the best part of her application, but she knew she had to move on.
MBA abroad after 30 with scholarships
I got into 2 top European B-schools
by Devika Mohole
Embarking on the path to pursue an MBA is a significant decision, one that requires reflection on past experiences and a clear vision for the future.
My journey to this point has been a blend of diverse interests, relentless curiosity, and a steadfast commitment to growth, offering several lessons and insights that may inspire fellow MBA aspirants.
From a young age, I was deeply immersed in sports. This early engagement not only fueled my passion for various sports but also instilled in me a spirit of adventure and resilience.
This adventurous spirit led me to explore the world through travel and hiking, broadening my perspectives and nurturing a love for new experiences.
These pursuits taught me the value of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance — qualities that have been invaluable throughout my career.
As I transitioned into my formative years I was fascinated with computers and engineering, driving me to pursue a degree in software engineering.
My college years were vibrant and filled with opportunities to engage in various clubs and activities.
One of the most transformative experiences was my election as the Public Relations Officer for the Computer Society of India (CSI) club.
This role provided me with early exposure to leadership and management, planting the seeds for my future aspirations in business management.
Engaging in these activities taught me the importance of communication, strategic thinking, and the impact of effective leadership.
Upon graduation, I joined EY as a technology risk analyst. This position allowed me to blend my interests in people, data, technology, and business.
Over the past nine years, I’ve dedicated myself to helping financial services clients transform their technology risk management practices.
A particularly rewarding stint in the UK became a turning point in my career. It was here that the importance of upskilling myself to grow into leadership positions became evident. This realization motivated me to work towards my MBA aspirations.
I also recognized that to broaden my work portfolio, I needed to deepen my understanding of business dynamics and enhance my leadership capabilities.
My MBA journey has been full of peaks and troughs and has taught me the value of being resilient.
My initial attempts at the GMAT were unsuccessful, leading me to temporarily shelve my MBA ambitions.
However, as I progressed through my career, I was continually reminded of my unfulfilled dream. I would wonder what it would have been like had I persevered.
After years of feeling a persistent, gnawing regret, I decided to give another attempt.
After 8.5 years into my career, I was already beyond the average age for most business schools.
It was an unconventional decision that felt risky, especially leaving a stable, well-paying job at a reputed organization.
Yet, the desire to grow, both personally and professionally, and to push beyond my comfort zone drove me to take this bold step.
Determined to persevere, I decided to overcome my test anxiety and gave GRE a try.
The preparation journey was intense, marked by hard work and determination.
After a disappointing first attempt, I re-evaluated my approach, identified gaps in my conceptual understanding, and improved my performance significantly in the second attempt with a score of 319.
While my target score was between 320-324, I was hopeful that my professional experience in leadership and consulting skills would compensate for a lower score.
I evaluated schools based on their focus on student diversity and average work experience of students. Overall my b-school selection criteria were:
- Internship opportunities: Since I wanted to switch from technology risk to strategy consulting.
- Top 10 MBA programs: Reputed and well-ranked program. I also applied to top 20 programs as safety schools.
- Short-term goals: School with good consulting outcomes, aligned with my short-term goals.
- Career development: Schools that were actively involved in career development.
- Diversity and experienced student cohort.
I applied to IESE, IE, ESADE, HEC Paris, Judge, and Said. Out of these, I received admits from all except Said and Judge.
I received scholarships from HEC and IESE.
Why I Chose IESE
- Strong consulting outcomes: 47% of students moved into consulting, and 59% of Indians transitioned into consulting roles.
- Positive alumni feedback: Conversations with alumni revealed high satisfaction with the Career Development Centre (CDC).
- Active student involvement: IESE was actively involved in student affairs.
- Case methodology: The program’s emphasis on case studies (over 300 cases) prepares students with essential problem-solving skills.
- Representation in top consulting firms: IESE students have a good representation across MBB (McKinsey, BCG, Bain), Strategy&, and other strategy consulting firms.
Working with India’s Best MBA Consultants
I came across MBA Crystal Ball while researching consultants in India on the GMAT Club page. Friends who had done similar research also gave good reviews of MBA Crystal Ball.
My first call with Vibhav was a candid conversation about my choices and his feedback on my chances.
He made me understand the risk of choosing schools in round 2 that might be outside my reach but did not discourage me from applying to them. He is honest, straightforward, and does not believe in running around the bush.
Vibhav and Maitabi worked as a dream team on my applications for IESE, ESADE and IE programs. They helped me look inward, identify my goals, strengths, and weaknesses. They polished my writing and ensured my essays addressed the prompts effectively.
They were not afraid of showing me the mirror, and despite my pushbacks, made me rewrite the essays until they were near perfect.
Interview Preparation
My interview preparations with them were an investment for life. I had never sought guidance on my interview skills and always believed that I interviewed well, but they helped me become more articulate and precise.
They helped me unravel tiny mistakes, such as starting to talk without taking time to think, which led to unstructured thoughts. Their candid feedback and structured approach made a significant difference.
I am grateful for their support and would highly recommend MBA Crystal Ball to anyone aiming for top business schools.
To my fellow MBA aspirants, I encourage you to embrace your unique journey.
Draw from your diverse experiences, be it in sports, arts, technology, or any other field. These experiences shape who you are and bring valuable perspectives to the business world.
Pursue your passions relentlessly, stay determined, and be open to new challenges.
The MBA journey is exacting, full of uncertainties and one that will require unwavering self-belief.
Believing in yourself and your potential will require continuous effort but you would be surprised with the incredible opportunities it will lead to.
Read,
– IIM MBA after 30
– How I got $250,000 (over ₹2 crores) in scholarships from 6 top MBA programs in USA
MBA Crystal Ball has helped many applicants over 30 get into the world’s best business schools. Reach out if you’re in the same boat: info@mbacrystalball.com
