There are different kinds of business schools. Some foster a more competitive environment; the thinking is that it prepares you for the rough-and-tumble real world. There are some that have massive lecture courses with hundreds of students.

Balancing school with the other demands of your life requires time, effort, and a bit of juggling. But while finding the perfect balance can be a challenge, it’s far from unattainable.

An MBA gives you instant credibility within your organization and on your resume. It indicates that you have expertise and a broad working knowledge of many business functions, giving you a leg up on other candidates who lack that level of experience.