European MBA with a Family

Question

Hey all, first post here at the forum.

I've just finished the applications for the following 5 schools, and waiting to hear back for next steps. In the meanwhile, I'm building a basic decision matrix. - Oxford, Said - IESE - IE - Esade - IMD I'll be traveling with my husband and a 6 month old baby for the program. I'm wondering if anyone has experience, or thoughts on which school would be best for a young family? I'm specifically interested in learning about accommodation, childcare, other forms of family support. Thanks all JJ

Art200 · Answer

I would go to IMD. Great country (& economy) and very calm. Perfect for a young family

bb · Answer

Welcome to GMAT Club.

You will be able to defined the community of young families in all of the programs.

It is a good time to build a matrix. I would probably wait on this specific item until you actually get admit it. Once you get admitted, you get connected with current students and you have a chance to ask them everything. It’s much harder to do as a prospective applicant….

Posted from my mobile device

mSKR · Answer

I would suggest to go for Oxford, Said 
1. high brand ( among the top rankers)
2. english speaking nation ( no language barrier with local business opportunities) 
3. more international ( Beyond MBA and otherwise)
4. Add 1 more year towards permanent residency.

Please share your final decision.

thanks!

bb · Answer

That's a good point. Unless your family speaks Spanish, it will be tricky to settle in BCN

Art200 · Answer

And even if they speak Spanish. Economy & salaries are among the lowest in Europe...

jjgostudy · Answer

My husband speaks Spanish and we have family there so there's that benefit.

I'm also torn on the 1 year vs 2 year. IESE is my top school, it is also a 2 year program, but I'm not sure if the internship and exchange are all that important. I would be switching industry (manufacturing to tech). But not having no income for 2 years sucks a little more.

bb · Answer

So the value of the internship is that it gives you an anchor or a possibility to get a strong brand as well as to potentially get a return offer. It is a bit of a safety net with a catch (you have to work for it).
Unless you have a strong brand on your resume that anyone can recognize when they hire you, I strongly recommend an internship in the country or continent at least you are planning to work...

P.S. If you have family in Spain, then Spain is going up in my book. it is always helpful to have someone you can rely on, someone who can perhaps serve as a network entry point, or someone who can at least invite you for a holiday while school is out or maybe support in another way. Unless you have reasons to avoid them, this is helpful.

European MBA with a Family

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