Question of the year: is it the right time to quit my job and do an MBA?

Vibhor Didwania, 22, was disappointed when he failed to secure admission to a regular undergraduate course in Delhi University in 2006 and had to settle for a correspondence course.

Vibhor Didwania, 22, was disappointed when he failed to secure admission to a regular undergraduate course in Delhi University in 2006 and had to settle for a correspondence course.

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But he realised that this gave him enough time to take up a regular job and gain some professional experience.

So, he joined Esprit Garments as a stock manager. He was happy with the way things were moving till the economic downturn set in last year — he got no increment and no promotion. That set him thinking — should he quit his job and pursue an MBA for professional growth?

“I took the right decision when I took up a job while doing my graduation via correspondence. I have a job, unlike many of my friends who have just graduated from regular colleges,” says Didwania.

His only regret: he should have got a promotion and become an assistant manager by now.

Should I throw away what I have and pursue an MBA?

Our take

You should definitely pursue your MBA. Most Indian and global analysts predict that the country will return to a high growth trajectory in the next two-to-three years.

Assuming you pass out in 2012, the Indian economy will be full of opportunities for ambitious and qualified people.

Don’t restrict your ambitions only to the retail sector.

An MBA will prepare you for a wide variety of industries. And your work experience will be an added advantage.

But remember: an MBA from a good institute is not a cakewalk. You’ll be competing against some of the brightest young people in the country. Entry standards are very tough and you’ll have to put in months of hard work before you qualify.

Then, choose your institute carefully. So, consult people who’re studying, or have completed their course; find out about faculty, alumnus (if a large majority of them are well placed, it indicates that an MBA from that institute is valued in the market, and vice versa) and fees and take the plunge. If you succeed, the world will be at your feet.

Advice by Sandeep Singh

sandeep.singh1@hindustantimes.com