I'm going to be graduating in 2010 with a BA in German and German Studies. I don't have a real focus and have been thinking about getting an MBA. Many of the MBA programs require a few years of work experience as a prerequisite, and as my prior work experience has not been very business oriented, I feel like I'm going to have trouble finding a business oriented job, in order to go to school for an MBA. Any tips on breaking into the business world?

Hi Willsnyder -

You are thinking of an MBA too soon in my opinion. Several students around the world graduate without business degrees and have all sorts of liberal arts majors, but a lot land up in business related careers.

You need do some introspection - investgate all the business specializations that do not necessarily need specialist education like accounts - marketing, PR, HR etc...several companies hire non business graduates in training schemes and them employ them full time. You can also try to get in as an assistant anywhere or in admin and work your way up.

To be honest, you need atleast 2 years of work experience to find the MBA applicable. Just try to involve your self at work or in the community in leadership / mentorship roles.

B-schools in the US (even the top brands!) are lowering their average age of entry so after a couplefo years with some leadership experience. YOu will be a prime candidate. You also do not need to get into a brand name company, it is the quality of experience they are interested in.

Hope this helps you .....good luck.

Hi Willsnyder - I forgot to mention the most importan thing. Do tno make career decision based on trying to get into an MBA after 2 years.

Do something you enjoy and are passionate about. You will then excel in it. In 2 years lots can happen, if you do soemthing you love, you may just not want an MBA after all...

In any case, MBA programs will recognize your interest when you apply and will be a valuable candidate because of your interests...

I'm going to be graduating in 2010 with a BA in German and German Studies. I don't have a real focus and have been thinking about getting an MBA. Many of the MBA programs require a few years of work experience as a prerequisite, and as my prior work experience has not been very business oriented, I feel like I'm going to have trouble finding a business oriented job, in order to go to school for an MBA. Any tips on breaking into the business world?

All jobs are "business oriented"! Any professional work experience will qualify you for an MBA. But what you're able to accomplish during your tenure is what will set you apart from other applicants. So, get any office job you want.. but try to make a real impact on the organization you're working for. That way you can talk about your contributions in your MBA application :) And, you know, help your company, of course!

I agree with this... In your application, you just have to put your work experience in the kinds of terms the business schools understand: work ethic, motivation, how you would excel, etc.

OP, what is the experience you have that you believe is not relevant? Perhaps if you told us, we could help you frame it more appropriately.

All jobs are "business oriented"! Any professional work experience will qualify you for an MBA. But what you're able to accomplish during your tenure is what will set you apart from other applicants. So, get any office job you want.. but try to make a real impact on the organization you're working for. That way you can talk about your contributions in your MBA application :) And, you know, help your company, of course!