Forums: Discussions for entrepreneurs and small business.

What are your thoughts about going back to school and getting an MBA in entrepreneurship?

I`ve been pondering this for a while, but I`m not quite sure it is necessary...

Thoughts???

If your business is going to be teaching others how to start and/ or run a business then sure that would give credit to your business, but if you are wanting to do it for starting up your business alone, my personal suggestion is don`t waste the money. Experience teaches better than any class can and you have so many teachers in this community that can help you that within a few years there will not be anything taught in the class that you will not already have learned from personal experience.

I`m with you, Engraver.  Unless you are in the business of teaching entrepreneurs~ don`t waste the money or the time.  Experience is the best teacher.  Surround yourself with those who have the knowledge you seek.  Mentors are priceless. 

In the interest of full disclosure, like Seth Godin I have one of those fancy MBAs, and I would agree that, when it comes to entrepreneurship, experience is the most invaluable teacher.

That being said, I did note one quote you included in your blog Dean:

"Your success in life will depend on the books you read and the people you meet."

That`s a pretty telling quote when you reference an MBA - because regardless of how you evaluate the classroom experience, the fact is you encounter an immense number of smart, accomplished people when you`re completing an MBA.  It`s a relatively unique combination of talented people.  If your success depends on the people you meet, then you could do worse than the people you get to spend a great deal of time learning from and networking with in business school (and some of the books are pretty useful as well).

So please let the MBA-bashing continue - just thought I`d chime in as one of the suckers  - I`m with you on entrepreneurship, if you`re set on being an entrepreneur and getting an MBA, make your focus strategy or finance or marketing - and get the most out of that network!