Designer Shoes & B-Schools
As many of my close friends and colleagues know, I have a well-worn love affair with shoes.
I'm often prioritizing style over comfort, as the case with a new pair of ballet flats from a high-end brand.
They looked stunning on the luxury retailer's website—and I ordered them without even about thinking about fit because 1) they were from a prestigious brand and 2) ballet flats are...well...ballet flats. Why wouldn't they be comfortable?
I was so excited to wear them for the first time and felt super stylish all day.
But now, as I write this article, I'm wearing something else on my feet:
So, what does this have to do with business schools?
Well, I've noticed that we often become enamored of designer brands in higher education as we do with lifestyle products such as cars or fashion.
And that's not a bad thing in itself. There's a reason why some brands command a premium BUT that doesn't mean they are going to be the best fit for YOU.
In my industry, there's an unspoken assumption that you always want to go to the most prestigious school that you can get into. And, yes, many people have said that a higher-ranked brand can pay more dividends in terms of career outcomes and networks.
But there are a couple things to think about when 'shopping' for an #MBA program.
First of all, prestige is relative.
One person's definition of prestige can differ from another person's definition of prestige. And that includes employers as well.
Second, personal values trump prestige.
If you are not at a school that aligns with your values, it is not going to be a good fit. It will be like walking with a blister throughout your entire student experience.
Third, prestige fluctuates.
This can happen due to external circumstances impacting perception of a brand or something occurring on campus. It's smart and strategic to consider additional factors in your school search, such as a core curriculum strength that supports your career goals.
You will do a lot of 'walking' in business school. Make sure the shoe fits.