Hello USC, currently looking into a couple MBA programs (both in-person and flex online). My top, also in-person choice is USC Marshall School of Business.
I am in my late 30s, live in Southern California (about 14-15 mile drive to USC's campus). I did not go to USC for undergrad. Went in a different career path starting second year in college.
Grades were middle of the path in undergrad. Studied mostly religion, theology, counseling, etc. Earned a Master of Divinity degree from a seminary also here in Southern California. Grades improved during seminary and also at UCLA Extension afterwards.
Currently, I work full-time in IT management for a federal contractor, specifically in product/project management, and have several PM credentials.
I am looking at the next several years of promotion, growth, etc., hence my interest in an MBA program to deepen/expand my learning and collaboration.
Few preliminary questions for you:
- For those who attended Marshall's MBA, what was your experience like?
- How did the cohorts, social interaction, and network benefit you during your time? I'm looking to make new friends and would like to build a network of people to interact with during and after my time there.
- Any insight on the difference between the Executive MBA and the Part-Time MBA? I'm leaning towards the Part-Time one, but am unsure if I'd be missing out on anything on the E-MBA track. Anyone else weigh the options there?
- Is GMAT or GRE absolutely needed? I already have a master's that took me five years to complete, and did not need it for that degree.
- Your biggest takeaway: key lessons learned, recommendation to a new student, etc.
- Do I sound like a candidate? Open to honest feedback
FYI I did email the admissions advisor on a few topics, and am waiting for reply back at the moment.
A final comment on the entrance testing. I know some other posts here on reddit said that there was a noticeable difference in the type of students who did not take the exams. I do not know the source as to why they felt that way. I completed my existing master's degree and feel like I demonstrated myself already as a capable student who can complete a rigorous education. Am I really going to be regarded as less than if I choose not to take that exam?
Open to any and all honest feedback.
Chats/DMs welcome.
Thank you for your time.