r/MBA•
Forty8888

Is an MBA worth it for me?

Careers/Post Grad

I’ve spent ~6 years in equity research at a BB/MM covering TMT under top analysts after graduating from a non-target. My goal has been to move to the buy side (HF/LO), and while I’ve reached several final rounds, I haven’t been able to land a role, and most recently lost out on a gig to an experienced PM (like 40+ yr old). I’m also burned out with NYC and SS ER: the work feels repetitive, recognition is limited when you are right, and most of my friends have left the city. I’m considering an MBA but have concerns about the ROI. My sub-3.0 undergrad GPA rules out HBS/GBS, though I may have a shot at T10–20 (GMAT is 645+). I’m trying to figure out whether an MBA would materially improve my career trajectory or help me build a stronger local network. I still enjoy aspects of ER, but I can’t see myself doing SS ER into my 40s, and I’m unsure whether my profile makes an MBA worthwhile for me.

Quick stats: Sub 3.0 GPA, 645 GMAT (one take), 6 years SS ER (At reputable banks - think GS/BofA/MS and some time MM at a RBC/TD/HSBC)

So my main questions are:

  1. ⁠Would an MBA be worth it? (would still try for buy-side during the two years and if no bites would switch to consulting or strategic fin) And better question - is it the right option?
  2. ⁠Assuming an MBA helps develop a better local job network - would my buy-side prospects change substantially? (TRowe, Cap Group, American Century for ex hire post MBA)
  3. ⁠Given my dookie-ass undergrad GPA (just wasn’t focused on grades tbh but wouldn’t message that to admissions) - can I even get into a good enough school to make it worth it?
  4. ⁠If someone has switched from ER to IB (ex NYC) - would love if you DM me to discuss. Just trying to evaluate what that lateral could look like.

Thanks!

Posted Nov 14, 2025, 7:02 PM UTC

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