After I made the personal decision that it was time for me to go back to school, I began researching programs online only to discover that every schools' website claims to offer the same "focused education". Next, I began visiting schools, but found right after reputation and quality of education, there were two factors that were very important to me in choosing a graduate school.  I wanted a specialized experience with a personal approach. I was unsure if anything in Wisconsin would be a good fit for me, so I scheduled a visit to the Wisconsin School of Business during its next information session in order to get a better idea of what it is all about.

I was immediately impressed by the fact that the director of Admissions was at the information session, which led me to believe this is an important decision to them and something they don't take lightly. I stayed after the program and spoke with the director at length about Wisconsin's specialized approach and how it is so different from other schools who make similar claims. We discussed how the accomplished advisory board and tenured faculty ensure the curriculum is up to date and delivered in a meaningful manner. I could definitely get a sense that something was going on here in Madison that I wanted to be a part of. In addition, the personal demeanor of the staff was refreshing.

In light of my background, I was especially interested in the specialization model at Wisconsin. I had a BBA and seven years of business experience, including some management.  The last thing I wanted was to sit in general classes with people who don't know the first thing about business or management.  This was not the case at the Nicholas Center for Corporate Finance and Investment Banking. Many of the students were already accomplished, and similar to me, were looking for their next competitive edge. The curriculum of the Nicholas Center is designed to prepare you for the executive level. Meeting with Terry Maxwell, an ex managing director at a well know investment bank, gave me a first-hand impression of what to expect in the field. Actual consulting engagements and case studies put you in the shoes of an executive solving real-world issues.

I have completed the first year of my MBA and have landed a meaningful internship with a well known company. So I am very happy with my decision to attend the Wisconsin School of Business.  However, the real payoff will be down the road when the knowledge and peer support that I received pursuing my MBA prepares me to add value to the shareholders' bottom line.