Having been in the "real world" for the last ten years, going back to graduate school was a tough decision.  The main question I kept asking myself: "I've already been successful in business, what do I need an MBA for?" This was usually followed by: "A MBA is a commitment - is it really worth the opportunity costs of the next two years of my life?"

I will be exploring these questions, and many more, throughout these posts. However, I can already assure you that the answers have both surprised and challenged me.

Before I dive too deep into the MBA experience, let me introduce myself. (Or in b-school speak, "let me walk you through my resume.") I'm a first year MBA student at the McCombs School of Business, proudly returning after receiving my BBA in Marketing from McCombs back in 2001.  Since graduating, I served as the Marketing Communications Manager at Cielo Wind Power and Marketing Director at Southpro Restoration Services. Meanwhile, I co-founded two successful businesses in Austin. The first was a custom running apparel company, and the second is a company called Grease Monkey Wipes, which makes all-natural, heavy duty cleaning products.  One of my biggest professional accomplishments was successfully pitching Grease Monkey Wipes on ABC's Shark Tank and receiving equity financing from two venture capitalists. Throughout my career, I have always been drawn to business strategy and am excited to see what McCombs can offer.

So... there you have it. I'm an entrepreneur with a heavy marketing background who has found myself back in school. Is it worth it? I hope you follow along and share the experience!