Full-Time Career to Graduate Education? We Have 6 Tips. – Purdue Krannert

Thursday, February 14, 2019

Are you looking into full-time MBA programs for experienced professionals? Transitioning from a full-time career to a full-time graduate education program can be intimidating in many ways. 
However, like most things in life, if you come up with a plan, this change can be simple. 
There are a few things you can do now to set yourself up for the easiest transition. 
 
1. Give Your Employer Ample Notice

The sooner you tell your employer, the more prepared they can be for your upcoming leave.

Offer to train the next employee and provide a date for your last day when you speak to your boss. 

If you hope to return to your employer post-MBA, offering as much notice as possible will help you to leave on a good note. 


2. Take Some Time Off

One of the “mistakes” we hear most often from full-time MBA students is that they did not give themselves enough time to relax before hitting the books and attending classes. 

Consider taking a few weeks off before the transition. You can travel or relax at home to recharge before the start of the semester. 

If you plan on switching industries, you can use this time to research potential employers; ask for a job shadow opportunity or a short-term internship at a company you are interested in. This experience will help you shape your graduate studies to fit within your career goals. 

3. Read the Business Section

If you are not already reading business news, now is the time to start. This will get you familiarized with the type of text you will be reading in your classes,  will keep you updated on business trends, and might even offer insights into the type of business cases you might be tackling in class

4. Plan Your Finances

Save yourself some stress and anxiety by planning out your finances over the course of your MBA program.

While leaving a career to attend school full-time has many benefits — committing yourself fully towards your studies, having more time to network, and being able to take full advantage of all possible opportunities — one of the largest stressors for students are finances. 

MBA students can combat this stress by moving in with a friend or family member and renting out the home they own. That way, they are still receiving consistent funds but can focus on their graduate education fully.

When you make your budget, remember to keep in mind the end goal; receiving an MBA often means a salary increase.  

5. Brush up on Math Skills

If you have a job that requires minimal manual functions, math is a subject that can be quickly forgotten after college. 

In your business studies, mathematics is a backbone to many subjects like finance, accounting, and more. Make sure you brush up on mathematical concepts before the start of your classes.

6. Research Graduate Assistantships and Scholarships

Graduate assistantships and scholarships can be great way to ease the financial strain of your graduate education. The Krannert School of Business offers graduate assistantships and scholarships to MBA students. These merit-based awards require no additional application on your part. 
 
Before you start your graduate education, use this checklist to ensure you are prepared. During your search for full-time MBA programs for experienced professionals explore the seven specialized Masters degree options at Purdue Krannert.