An MBA Is Possible for Working Professionals
Erick shares his tips for balancing work, school, and life.
Erick Prado is a part-time MBA graduate from Saint Louis University.
Hi, my name is Erick Prado. I am from Mexico City. After finishing college in Mexico City I started working at an American Company with headquarters in St. Louis, Missouri. After a couple of years in my role I was invited to join the Global Shared Services team in St. Louis. A few years later I started the part-time MBA program at Saint Louis University after I was encouraged by my colleagues and managers to pursue an MBA. I graduated and I recently took a new role within my company. Thanks to the MBA I was able to learn things outside my company that helped me to have better understanding of how a company operates across multiple functions.
Why Business School? I wanted to have a holistic understanding of the business world and learn business cases from other companies.
Best GMAT™ exam study tip? Study at your own pace and solve multiple sample questions and tests before the real exam.
Before business school, I was: Working on a Finance supply chain role focused on closing activities and accounting.
When I’m not in class, you’ll find me: Running, playing tennis, golf or watching a Netflix TV series.
Advice for anyone thinking about b-school? Make sure you talk to the staff, professors or alumni from the B school you would like to attend. Additionally, think 5 years from now how going to b school will help you to achieve your goals.
My remedy for pre-test nerves: Rest, focus, try to take a few days off from work.
On the day before your exam, you should: Focus on the strategy you have to solve the exam. Get some rest, eat well.
How did you fit studying for the GMAT exam into your busy schedule? I used my weekends to study. I studied with my wife since she also got into B school. That helped us to stay on track and solve problems together.
How well-prepared for business school do you feel, after studying for the GMAT exam? Very well prepare, studying for the GMAT was very helpful because it set the right tone about how to start the MBA.
An MBA Is Possible for Working Professionals
"It's very important to re-prioritize your activities in order to set up the right expectations."
My Advice for Preparing for the GMAT Exam
"Look at your strengths and your weaknesses and make sure you go through each problem that you didn’t have time to catch."