MBA is not just another program, its a way of life, says Dr Devi Singh, Director, IIM-L

Thats the message from the director of one of Indias premier B-schools, the Indian Institute of Management, Lucknow (IIM-L) during IMS B-school Tour in Delhi on September 2.

Addressing the eager aspirants at the B-school Tour organized by Advancedge MBA, a publication from IMS Learning, Dr Singh said, Good B-schools teach you how to take correct decisions by thorough data-analysis. Life at B-school is rigorous and full of learning. The MBA program is a way of life, not merely another academic program. Drawing a comparison with other courses, Dr Singh added, Management education is not like economics or physics. Its a holistic course that teaches how to comprehend the whole, not just the parts.

Laying stress on decision-making skills that an MBA program teaches, he said, Today, the world of business is getting more and more complex. Global forces are reshaping processes and products. In such a scenario, decision-making skills of managers are a key. A good MBA teaches you how to take a good decision with less than adequate data, and in a fluid situation.

What do top B-schools -- like the IIMs -- look for in candidates? We value candidates who have stamina and intellectual capability to complete a tough MBA program. It is not easy to survive over 600 hours of teaching and an equal amount of preparation in one year. Then, we look for people who have team-skills. Business education fosters inter-dependability, said Dr Singh. Integrity, humility and a sense of humor are important elements too.

At the end of his speech, responding to an audience question on work experience vs MBA, he said, I would advise students to not leave their jobs to get into an MBA program. Work for a couple of years. After working for a few years, you will have better clarity on your goals, strengths and weaknesses -- that will help you get more from your MBA.