Should a 25-year-old freelance web developer pursue an MBA at IIM?

Ans: Hello,
I understand that not clearing CAT exams and seeing your friends enter prestigious institutions might be disheartening. Still, it's essential to remember that success in life is not solely determined by attending certain institutions. Define your success on personal terms. Success in life is diverse, and IIM attendance doesn't guarantee it. Many successful individuals have achieved great heights without an IIM background. Still, you can consider exploring the online courses and certifications IIMs offers if you want to carry the same IIM alum tag. These certifications are meant for working professionals to enhance their skills and contribute to their professional growth. Success is subjective and can be defined in various ways. Focus on your strengths, passions, and personal goals rather than comparing yourself to others.

Take calculated risks, learn from setbacks, and remember that exploring opportunities and shaping your unique path is always possible. Pursuing entrepreneurship is a commendable goal, but starting a business requires careful planning and execution. Here are some tips to get started:

1. Choose a business idea that aligns with your skills and passion.
2. Understand the market, target audience, and competition for your chosen business.
3. Outline your business goals, strategies, and financial projections.
4. Connect with mentors, attend entrepreneurship events, and learn from successful entrepreneurs.

It's natural to feel a sense of urgency, especially when considering entrepreneurship. However, rushing into a venture without proper planning can lead to challenges. What I have learned in my life is that all of us have a unique journey, and setbacks do not define our worth. Focus on your strengths, passions, and long-term goals. If entrepreneurship is your dream, take small steps, gather knowledge, and gradually work towards your vision.

Ans: Can write CAT. There are students with even 7 or 8 years or work experience studying in top IIMs. Placement prospect are similar to an average student at the IIMs, but you have a chance to get a lateral placement which could help to get better placement. Also look at option of writing GMAT to do a Executive MBA from the top colleges as a backup option.

Ans: It does not make sense to join a tier 3 MBA college if you have a potential to get into IIMs. Give a good shot for CAT and try to get into a good college. If you do not get admission in good college then can look at tier 2 or tier 3 colleges. If possible take up a job so that your gap does not increase.

Ans: You can write CAT and get into a good college. My suggestion would be not to leave your job but prepare for CAT along with your job. Only if you get a good college then can leave your job to pursue MBA. If you do not get a good college, then continue working and can look for doing Executive MBA later which requires 2+ (ISB, Great Lakes), 3+ (XLRI), 5+ (IIMs) years of work experience and easy to get in.