When it comes to an MBA at Sloan, a variety of factors come into play. When I first visited Sloan, I tried to eliminate the curriculum as a way to learn about the program and instead focused on what happens outside the classroom. By talking to students and observing some of the clubs, I was able to really see what the culture is like. What I learned? Anything is possible at Sloan: whether it be public health, technology, finance, marketing, health care, policy, engineering. I think it's important to have an open mind about the Sloan MBA; although it's technologically inclined, MIT really tries to appeal to any background. You must not be afraid of the word 'technology'. I've seen students discouraged from pursuing MIT because of this. We tend to picture nuts and bolts in our mind when we think 'technology', look past that and think green, innovation, creativity, the future, etc. It's a lot more than you really think.
I have a public health/nonprofit background and I learned quickly that my strengths and experiences are welcome at Sloan.
Aside the hands-on initiatives and student-run MBA program (fellowships, research, assistant-ships), Sloan really makes you the key stakeholder of your education. Have you taken the time to learn about the Sloan Innovation Period and why no classes go on during the month of January? Are you familiar with Treks? S-labs? G-labs? C-functions? The Entrepreneurship & Innovation Track? The brand new facilities? Unique joint degree programs within and out of the university? I could go on but these are key characteristics of the program that attracted me. Sure, H/S/W all have their pros and cons; it'll come down to fit and where you see yourself excelling. And although rankings will tell you who's 'higher up', don't limit yourself to just numbers. Only you will decide the number one choice for yourself.
Hope this helps and good luck! =)
01 Jan 2010, 03:56
