BSEE looking into MBA after 3-4 years exp

n3znf
Thu, 24 Jan 2008 19:51:26 +0000

Hello All,

I graduated in May 05 from Penn State with a BSEE (2.8GPA). I went to work for the company I interned with (June will be my 6th year with the same company).

That company spun up an offshoot in 05, I was assigned to that company as the Engineer. I’m the only one in our office that is not a Director. Right now our company is expanding. I will have one person working under me in March (a tech) and looking to hire two more engineers (one under me) in the next year. I’m currently included in most of the decisions, and meet with customers directly. I have also developed 5-6+ products, some of which I’ve come up with entirely. In any case I’ve managed/coordinated the projects between mechanical, and software development. Our company deals with quick turn customer specific products.

Now looking forward, I’m currently located about an hour away from Raleigh, NC which is home to UNC and Duke. I want to go into negotiations to have my company pay for an MBA (weekend program). I know they will back me with at least the time off, and I expect them to cover at least some of the expense.

Would it be worthwhile to apply for 2009 or should I wait for 2010? How competitive am I, applying to schools like UNC or Duke for their weekend programs? Does anyone have any advice for working with the company? I’ve read a 2 year commitment is standard.

I’m pretty sure my work experience will speak for itself, as I’ve had an unusual opportunity to take on responsibility at a level above my experience. I have no baseline, besides what I’ve read on forums so any advice is appreciated.

Thanks,
Martin