Does anyone else feel behind even with an MBA? I thought it would magically unlock new roles by now and instead I’m still applying to jobs that barely pay more.

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Honestly, yes. To the point where I’ve genuinely questioned whether getting my MBA was a waste of time. I thought it would unlock new roles by now, but instead I found myself applying to jobs that barely paid more than what I already make.

For a while, I was aggressively job hunting to escape a toxic manager who played a big role in me being stuck at my IC level. She eventually left the company, which was a huge relief, but that led to the classic “peer becomes your manager” situation. It’s definitely better than before, but it still comes with those moments of realizing how quickly people change once they’re on the other side. Sometimes I think, “ Oh, buddy really went to the dark side!”😂

After countless lowball offers and chaotic interview processes, I finally changed my approach. I stopped forcing the next move and decided to sit where I am for now. Instead, I’m putting my energy into building a passion business with friends and leaning more into life outside of corporate. I’ve had to get creative about what “getting ahead” even means anymore, because the professional world just isn’t the same as it was even a few years ago. And honestly, corporate can really mess with you if you let it.

One mentor told me the MBA really pays off 10 years down the line, when access to certain rooms and decisions depends on it. I get that, but I’d be lying if I said I don’t sometimes think, why can’t it help right now?

I also wonder if MBA grads felt this way even before this brutal job market, or if this moment has just amplified something that was already there.

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Of course! I’m happy to share my story if it helps even one person. Feel free to reach out anytime if I can be of support. We’re all in this together!

uplifting

I went to a T15 and landed at Accenture so yes I feel very behind, particularly when I meet people who started out of undergrad and in 10 years are where it would ultimately take me 17 because of market timing. Shouldn't have gone back honestly.

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