Why Should You Get an MBA? An Expert Coach's Perspective
Gain valuable insights from an expert coach's perspective on the benefits of pursuing this degree. Learn how an MBA can enhance your career and personal growth, and discover the opportunities that lie ahead.
By Lauren W.
I coach prospective MBAs in crafting a story and apply for top MBA programs
Posted April 10, 2025
As an increasing number of professionals consider pursuing an MBA, a crucial question emerges: Why should I get an MBA? Is it the right choice for me? An MBA, often associated with better job prospects and a higher income, is a significant investment, with graduates typically incurring a median debt of anywhere from $41,000 to $170,000. Although many successful individuals do not hold an MBA, this degree may be the ideal choice for some. In this article, we explore five reasons why an MBA might be the right fit for you and provide insights into the MBA versus Masters dilemma.
- Career or Industry Transition:
Many professionals seek an MBA to change careers or industries after feeling stagnant in their current roles. MBA programs typically span two years, allowing ample time and opportunities for exploration, such as internships. If you aspire to switch careers or industries, an MBA could be an excellent platform for doing so. - Career Enhancement:
While most MBA candidates aim for a career or industry transition, some seek to enhance their current careers. An MBA can provide networking opportunities and a diverse curriculum to bolster your existing role. However, as obtaining an MBA often requires pausing your career, it's crucial to strategize and communicate a compelling story in your application about why you're willing to do so. - Network Expansion:
One of the MBA's most significant advantages is the opportunity to expand your professional network. MBA programs provide a diverse, intelligent community for personal and professional growth. While applying, consider the program's culture and environment and how you fit in. Today's MBA programs emphasize collaboration and strong community bonds rather than exclusivity or competitiveness. - Access to Resources:
MBA programs offer an abundance of resources across various industries, including clubs, partnerships with top companies, and C-suite executives as lecturers. Higher-ranked MBA programs generally have stronger connections with top companies, making them particularly attractive. Research each program's strengths and resources to determine which aligns best with your career goals. - Confidence Building:
Pursuing an MBA in the USA, especially at a top 25 program, is challenging. These programs admit diverse groups of intelligent, ambitious students from around the world, requiring a firm grasp of the English language. Overcoming challenges and collaborating with peers from different backgrounds can help you develop confidence in your abilities.
If you'd like further guidance on whether an MBA is the right choice for you, feel free to reach out for a free intro call. I’d love to help you figure out your career and educational goals.
Bonus: MBA vs. Master’s – Which to Choose?
What if I’m deciding between an MBA or Master’s? If you're focused on a specific industry or job and prefer a more technical role, a Master’s program may be a more efficient choice. While an MBA offers a broad overview of various industries, a Master’s degree enables specialization in a particular field. For guidance on applying for a Master’s, I can also provide assistance. Please reach out to me on my Leland coach profile.
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Written by Lauren
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Hi, I am Lauren Wong and I am a passionate and adaptive Goals and Manifestation Coach. As someone who has always thrived in setting and reaching their own goals, as a Goals Coach, I use my experience and skills to empower individuals to set and achieve their goals and create fulfilling and purpose-driven lives. Although I got my certification in coaching and launched my coaching business just recently in 2022, I've had extensive experience in mentoring and have been helping individuals achieve their goals as a private academic tutor for 9+ years and an undergrad mentor for 3+ years. Recently, I was certified by AIGAC, the premier international graduate admissions consulting organization. In the last 3 years my top achievements for MBA and Masters Admissions include: -Clients admitted to top MBA programs across the USA and Europe, including elite M7 and top 10 schools such as Wharton, Columbia, Kellogg, Haas, Ross, and Duke Fuqua, as well as leading European programs like INSEAD (100% acceptance rate), LBS, and HEC -85% of my clients admitted to at least one top 25 program—more than double the global average of 35% -100% of clients interviewed, waitlisted, or admitted—a track record of ensuring every client remains competitive -Over $500,000 in scholarships secured (including one full ride), helping clients realize their dreams with significantly reduced financial burdens -Collaborations with clients & AdCom across 5+ countries More importantly, my unique approach helps my clients discover, own, and communicate their story, building their skills and confidence needed to succeed in all endeavors! My coaching/mentoring journey began in 2014 when I started tutoring part-time. I'd continue tutoring and mentoring while working full-time until in 2021, after deep reflection during 2020 Covid times and a life changing trip to Taiwan, I realized that coaching was my true life passion. I embraced my natural ability in coaching and supporting others and assisted my local Taiwanese friends in their application to Graduate school in the States -- feeling truly fulfilled when I was able to help them get accepted to their dream program. So in 2022, I launched my coaching business, utilizing my tutoring and mentoring experience, along with my Bachelor degrees from UC Berkeley and MBA from UCLA Anderson, to help individuals reach their goals in the form of higher education and admissions. Since my launch I've helped clients get accepted into top MBA and masters program including UC Berkeley Haas, USC Marshall, Duke Fuqua, Kellogg, Ross, UCLA Anderson, INSEAD and more! As a coach, I work with my clients on delivering concrete results by providing support, edits, and feedback on clients' application. I also prioritize developing my client's confidence, empowering them with sustainable habits to help them set and reach goals, beyond just academics.
Lauren has helped clients get into organizations like:
New York University
Michigan State University
USC Marshall School of Business
Arizona State University
HEC Paris Business School
