u/Any-Drive5557

Trying to get outside perspective on this

Background:

- 10 years in CPG, including effectively functioning as the GM of a nationwide brand. Focus primarily on sales / finance / strategy

- Currently work on a fractional capacity, mostly for brands, but have worked with family offices, PEs, and VCs for due diligence. I work for myself so the $200K feels a lot less than $200K

- 3.3 undergrad GPA from a top 10 school, 4.0 senior year

- Haven't taking the GMAT yet, but practice tests range 750-770. Regardless, I think I'll clear 700

Goals post-MBA:

1. PE investing in consumer

2. Portfolio ops at a fund holding consumer brands

3. Consulting

4. Corp dev or strategy at a large CPG company

Where I'm stuck:

I'm pretty comfortable where I am now, but also tired. I work for myself and have pretty good WLB (although this really depends on how many engagements I'm working on). I also have decent traction with my clients, sometimes turning down projects due to workload. The cost of MBA tuition is high and I'm worried that I'd lose momentum if I leave to go to B school.

At the same time, I like the idea of having an MBA, especially if it's from a top school. Then again, I don't think educational pedigree is that important in CPG; about a third of the people I interact with regularly went to a CC or didn't go to college.

I think the only guaranteed outcome where I would make more money is if I go into PE, but the chance of that is pretty low. While I could jack up my consulting rates if I get an MBA, it would hurt me as well since I mostly work with small brands.

Based on my goals, what schools should I apply to? What kinds of programs should I go for (part time, evening, full 2-year, etc.)? More importantly, should I even bother?

Would love to hear from people who did an MBA after already making decent money and from anyone in consumer growth equity or portfolio ops in particular.

Thanks!

Hi!

I played violin when I was a kid (ages 5 to 18) at a fairly decent level. I finished ABRSM Grade 8 in middle school and played Bruch, Mendelssohn, etc. in high school. I quit after I graduated because I didn't think I was good / talented enough to be a music major and didn't want to continue in the university orchestra.

I haven't picked up the violin in 15 years, but find myself somewhat missing it. Since 18, I haven't really touched my instrument.

Questions:

- Can anyone recommend a luthier in NYC to re-condition my old violin? I also need to get a new bow and strings.

- Teacher recommendations in NYC? What should I look out for in terms of pricing?

- I learned from Suzuki. Which Suzuki book should I start with? I tried playing the old songs recently and I was terrible. lol.

Thanks!

PS Read the FAQ (very helpful)