Thank you for that color!
I think there are only 55 accredited programs in the US and each takes/matches maybe 10 candidates per year so it’s definitely very competitive to gain entry. I estimate maybe a 5–10% acceptance rate…so not a sure thing.
My daughter will definitely try to fortify her candidacy via shadowing, internships, and volunteer work but I agree 100% with you in that an MBA provides a back up plan and significant flexibility if it takes her one or two cycles to get into a program. The BS in Biology and MBA will also strengthen her profile as someone with problem solving/analytical experience, a track record of collaboration with clients, working on teams, etc. I’m guessing few candidates have this profile when they are applying.
She may decide to go in a different direction career wise altogether, and the MBA coursework and projects will open up new doors in terms of networking, alternative career paths, etc.
It’s more valuable in the end for her to graduate with a BS in Biology AND and MBA vs just a biology degree.
Really want to express my thanks for your perspective, especially given your daughter’s experience in pursuit of the same career path.