| This qualitative case study research explored the educational and career experiences of 10 women who were first-year MBA students in a top-ranked, Northeastern MBA program accredited by the AACSB. Data were gathered from in-depth interviews and review of a variety of personal documents; they were analyzed to identify patterns and themes.; The participants had positive educational experiences, reporting that they enjoyed school and performed well, beginning as early as elementary school. Many participants had a life-long ambition to obtain a graduate degree. In almost all cases, they came from families that strongly emphasized the value of higher education; parents were the primary influence on their daughters' educational attitudes and behaviors.; The participants' careers were varied and largely satisfying. Teamwork was a common experience, and post-college jobs strongly influenced their aspirations for graduate business education. Having fine-tuned their interests and abilities through work experience, each participant concluded that earning an MBA would provide the tools necessary to advance and succeed in her chosen career path. They shared the perception that an MBA would help them weather the storms of a volatile job market, and that it may facilitate a return to paid employment if the participants temporarily stopped out of the work force to raise children.; Significant themes included: (1) our efforts have been encouraged, supported, and rewarded; (2) we are flexible about our career paths; (3) we believe career mentors are important; (4) we are determined to overcome our obstacles and act on our opportunities; and (5) we want to give back to society.; This research has implications for practice in the areas of student recruitment, career services and MBA program design and structure. |
