The Name Or The Place
So now that the "Piece of Paper"© is complete, the next step is what to do for my Masters work. Originally, I was looking at getting my degree in Telecommunications from the University of Denver, but after some deep thought I have essentially ruled it out. The problem with getting a degree in Telecommunications is that it is quite redundant for what I've done over the past fifteen years. It's like Eddie Van halen getting a degree in guitar performance from Berklee School of Music (not that I am the Eddie Van Halen of telecom, more like Michael Anthony graduating from Fred's Music Barn).
So now I am seriously looking at an MBA program since:
a). If I seriously want to look at getting into a directors position, I'm going to have to have some sort of advanced degree.
b). There is enough of a critical mass of programs so they are somewhat easy to attend.
I have seriously also through about the whole "get another degree in Comp Sci" but in my field, that's like getting a degree in Sanskrit, a four thousand year old dead language. And the only programs around here are "traditional" ones which means six+ years of crap to get another B.S.
So now my dilemma. I have at this point whittled down the choices to two programs. The first would be through Taylor University, the second would be at Purdue University. Here are the choices.
Taylor is much closer, offers a shorter overall schedule (16 months as opposed to 36 at Purdue), and is almost half the price (around 21k).
Purdue is much more prestigious, is a longer drive (think too far to drive home each night), and will cost around 36k.
Now, don't get me wrong, I'm not overtly thrilled about getting an MBA, but I also know that if someone is going to take me seriously in my job, I need to get it. I also know that what I would love to do is highly unlikely since I highly suck at Calculus.
Taylor looks like the winner, but since I'm not planning on starting full time until early 2007, I have some time to think about it. Ideas anyone?
Oh, and if any of you would like to donate to the "send Brian to college" program, please let me know and I'll put up a tip jar. ;-)
Comments
Brian, your approach to considering post-baccalaureate degree programs is superficial at best. No matter where you go, I would suggest you invest some prayer time in seeking what God would have you do with this opportunity. I also am confident that Dr. Rottmeyer would be more than happy to have further discussions with you regarding the fit of Taylor University's program with your needs.
I, too, would be glad to speak with you on this subject.
Sincerely,
Dr. Chris Bennett
Dean of Graduagte Studies
Taylor University
Posted by: Dr. Chris Bennett | May 26, 2006 1:22 PM
Hi Dr. Bennett, glad someone Googled my name. :-)
Anyhow, you probably have read my blog and in doing so, well, I won't get into details.
I have a good idea what I want to do with my life, I can/will never say "I Know" since over the past fifteen years my life has taken several twists and turns. Five years ago, I never thought I would seriously be thinking about attending a MBA program.
I look forward to our meeting on Tuesday, I'm sure you'll have more questions in the meantime.
Posted by: Brian Wohlgemuth![[TypeKey Profile Page]](http://www.woogieworld.org/nav-commenters.gif)
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May 26, 2006 3:43 PM
So, now that I've recovered over the shock of your posting...(yeah, shock is a bit strong...more a surprise than anything), I'll let you into my mind a little bit.
I have been very fortunate to land in a field where I have been able to succeed. Succeed to point I never thought would be possible at my relatively young age. So now I am 34 and wondering "what's next". I don't want to stay in my currently role for the next 30 years to get the gold watch and the (probably non-existant) pension. I also know to succeed that I need a post-grad degree, preferably in leadership or business.
Now, while my search might be as you put it "superficial at best", it's still a search. I have no doubt in my mind that I can succeed at either program. Heck, I actually have rethought my doubts about my abilities in Calculus since writing that last post. But you know Dr. Bennett this is part of the thought process of prospective students. These are also some of the recommendations coming from universities as well (find someplace you can do well at with the biggest name possible). This is why Northwestern's MBA program is considered superior to "George's MBA Hut". It's not a slam on your program, it's what that program offers differently to each student (and no, I don't consider your university to be a George's MBA Hut).
I am interested in Taylor, otherwise I would have circular filed the brochure the day I received it. I also have a short timeframe in which to do this since I have children who will be attending college in the next couple of years. Hence my reasoning and my searching, superficial as it may be.
Posted by: Brian Wohlgemuth![[TypeKey Profile Page]](http://www.woogieworld.org/nav-commenters.gif)
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May 26, 2006 4:12 PM