I spoke to this topic of business school in an earlier post (See post on Tip #2). If you even think that you want to enter the business world, I highly recommend going back to school full-time to get an MBA. Whether you want to be an operations leader, a marketing manager or even a small business owner or an entrepeneur, going back to school to solidify your business acumen can never hurt you. It will strengthen your resume and can often give you opportunities that you would not have with only a BA or BS. When I worked at P&G, the majority of Associate Brand Managers that were hired into Marketing, all came from business school. (If you have other career interests outside of business, look into what graduate school can enable as well. Maybe you have an interest in working outdoors, so a Masters in Forestry might be of interest. Maybe you want to be a politician or work for a non-profit...a Masters in Public Administration could also be helpful. In all cases, research what opportunities in your field of interest an advanced degree might enable).
Now...back to B-School....the other advantage of going to business school full-time is that it will give you more time and opportunity to really explore career opportunities, while you are still in school. You will have the ability to take advantage of internships and network with other students. I really recommend going back to school if you have a strong geographical preference, because it gets you back to where you want to be quickly AND gives you the opportunity to make yourself a part of the community. The other benefit is that it will help you re-civilianize yourself...as you can get more accustomed to life outside of the military and a more typical social life.
The last reason I mention school is that most of you who have served post 9/11 , should have school benefits to utilize. You will have to do your own research on the Post 911 GI Bill (http://www.gibill.va.gov/benefits/post_911_gibill/index.html), but it would be a shame to not utilize this wonderful benefit that the government offers you for your service. If you are married with kids, I know it may sound more difficult to become a full-time student, but find a way to make it happen. You may have to downsize, or be poor for a few years....but in the end, I guarantee that this will be worth it. If you can’t convince your wife, send me an e-mail….I will help you convince her, as this is one of the bigger regrets that I personally had when I think about my transition.
I did end up getting my MBA, but it took me 3 1/2 years part-time to complete and it was a GRIND...especially when I did most of it with a newborn in the house. I was also 5 years into my career, by the time I started school. Trust me, if you can make it happen, before you settle into a full-time job, a mortgage payment, etc....I HIGHLY, HIGHLY recommend it.
Best of luck in your search...more posts will be coming soon!
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