So how do you stay sane when everyone on LinkedIn seems to have it all figured out, your parents are giving you advice based on brand names, and you’re low-key panicking about making the “wrong” decision?
Here’s a practical guide to cutting through the noise and making a decision you can actually live with.
Step 1: Understand That FOMO Is Inevitable
Yes, you’ll always wonder “what if” — even after you join your dream B-school. That’s human. But don’t let FOMO drive your decision.
Ask yourself:
Am I choosing this because I actually want what it offers?
Or because I don’t want to “miss out” on what others are doing?
Choosing out of fear is still a choice — but usually the wrong one.
Choosing the Best MBA Specialization for You
Step 2: Go Beyond Just “Ranking”
It’s tempting to follow the pecking order of “ABC > old IIMs > new IIMs > others”. But your career isn’t a formula — and neither should your choice be.
Here’s what else matters:
- Your desired domain: Want to go into marketing? MICA or IIM-L might offer better exposure than even some older IIMs.
- Culture and pedagogy: SPJIMR’s value-based system is very different from IIM-K’s case-heavy approach.
- Peer group and alumni: Will you feel inspired, challenged, and supported?
- Location and opportunities: A Mumbai campus gives you very different access than one in a smaller town.
Rankings are just a starting point. Fit matters more.
Step 3: Use Logic, But Listen To Your Gut
Make an Excel sheet — yes. Compare placements, roles, fees, batch sizes, and location. Speak to alumni. Watch campus videos. Do the analysis.
But after all that, ask yourself: Where do I see myself thriving?
You’re not just choosing a brand. You’re choosing two years of your life. Choose a place where you think you’ll grow — academically, socially, and emotionally.
Trust your instincts. They’ve gotten you this far.
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Step 4: Silence The Noise
Everyone has an opinion. Your seniors will swear by their college. Your CAT mentor will push you toward the “better ROI.” Parents might prefer IIM because, well, it’s IIM.
But here’s the thing — none of them will live your experience.
Talk to people, yes — but filter advice through the lens of your values, goals, and comfort. What worked for someone else may not work for you.
Take control of your narrative.
Step 5: There’s No Perfect Choice — Only A Right Choice For You
You might worry: What if I regret this later?
You might. But you’ll also adapt, learn, and make the most of it — because that’s who you are.
The truth is, every B-school has success stories and failures. It’s less about the name and more about what you do with the opportunity.
Your MBA journey isn’t made by the college name. It’s made by:
The effort you put in,
The network you build,
The direction you steer yourself toward.
Final Thoughts: Choosing a B-School for MBA
It’s okay to feel confused. This is a big decision. But don’t let fear or FOMO rule your head.
Instead, reflect, research, and then decide. No B-school is perfect, but the one that aligns with your goals and values will always be the right one for you.
And once you’ve chosen, go all in. Trust your choice. Own it. Build from it.
Because in the end, it’s not the B-school that defines you — it’s what you become through the journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What all metrics should I look up to before selecting a B-school for an MBA?
Ans- Apart from RoI and Placements, you should look at the geographical location, alumni network, culture, faculty, and major companies/sectors recruiting from that campus.
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