I graduated from a prestigious university and have been working in private equity for about four years now. Recently, I got accepted into some great MBA programs, including Harvard and Wharton. However, I would have to cover the costs myself.
My current job has a solid salary, and while it can be stressful, I genuinely enjoy what I do. I realize that an MBA isn’t necessary for my career advancement, but it could potentially open new opportunities in the future. Having Harvard on my resume would be incredible and might help if I decide to shift into hedge funds or venture capital later.
At this point, I’m weighing my options, which include three main paths. The first option is to stay in my current role and continue to advance. My salary is decent, and I don’t specifically need an MBA to get promoted. The experience I gain might be more beneficial than taking two years off, and I would avoid accruing debt.
The second option is to attend Harvard Business School. This would provide me with access to both their alumni network and my current university’s network. It could create new opportunities, especially if I want to transition into hedge funds or venture capital. Additionally, it would allow me to take a breather and forge new connections. However, the drawback is the cost and the loss of two years of work experience and income.
The third option is to defer my admission. I’m uncertain why I would choose this, but it could give me more time to consider whether the degree is worth pursuing. I might also use the acceptance as leverage for other opportunities down the line.
Has anyone faced a similar situation? What choice did you make? Should I leverage these offers to negotiate at my current job, or is it truly worth going for the MBA?
I’ve seen tons of professionals face this same choice, and it really comes down to where you want your career to go long-term, not just the money right now. Think of the Harvard MBA as a pivot tool, not just another step up the ladder.
With four years in PE, you’re actually in the sweet spot to get the most out of the program. The alumni network in VC and hedge funds is incredible - honestly, those connections matter more than the degree itself. But only if you’ll actually use them to switch careers.
Here’s how I see it: staying put means steady growth, but the MBA opens doors to completely different opportunities. Are you happy with gradual progress, or do you want a shot at exponential growth? Yeah, it’s expensive, but it typically pays off by getting you into roles and salary ranges that’d be tough to reach otherwise, no matter how well you’re doing now.
don’t overthink it. you got into Harvard - that’s incredible and most people would kill for that spot. if money isn’t a major concern and you’re already considering VC, just go for it. worst case? you spend two years networking with amazing people and return to PE with even better credentials. the deferral idea sounds like you’re getting cold feet.
Another “woe is me, I got into Harvard” post. You’re already making good money in PE and like your job - so why are you second-guessing this? Sounds like you want validation, not advice. If you’re really torn about having too many good options, flip a coin. But using your acceptance as leverage at work? That’s risky and pretty trashy. Either take the MBA or don’t - just stop overthinking what’s basically a luxury problem.
Honestly? Harvard acceptance while already successful sounds like a dream problem! You’re crushing it in PE already, so this feels more about personal growth than necessity. Trust your gut!
I was in the exact same spot 3 years ago - different industry but same dilemma. Had a solid gig at a consulting firm, got into Kellogg, and couldn’t decide if I should walk away from good money. Went for it and zero regrets. What nobody mentions is how much you figure out about yourself in those two years. The network’s solid, but I walked away knowing exactly what I wanted long-term. If you’re already questioning whether PE is your forever move, there’s your answer. The debt hits hard at first, but it’s totally manageable once you’re pulling VC money.