You didn't get into your dream school? Is it time to accept your backup option?
It's cliche to be told that you should "never settle." Sounds fantastic in a TV commercial or in movies, but is it realistic in real life? When it comes to returning to applying for your MBA, what do you do when the offers simply don't come in?
Choosing a backup strategy does not have to be a compromise.
The fact of certified MBA programs is that your education will be strong and comprehensive no matter where you go. What you must assess is your post-MBA strategy. Will your backup option still allow you to acquire the job you want? Is the position you want attainable? It's not really sacrificing on your dream if it wasn't realistic to begin with. Rejection from your target schools may indicate that you set your sights too high in the first place. If you adjust your perspective, you may discover that having a backup plan is a better way to go.
WHAT IF YOU JUST CAN'T LET NO BE YOUR ANSWER?
Sometimes you just don't want to abandon your goal, and MBAs in general are determined, focused, all-in individuals. So it's not strange to hear MBA candidates who don't want to take the plan B every cycle. If this describes you, your backup strategy may be to reapply this year. Taking an extra year might occasionally help you fill in the gaps in your profile and achievements so that you can still get into your original school, although at a later date. If you fit under the "no compromise" group, be sure you're willing to put in the work to improve your profile. The extra year without any profile enhancement will not put you any closer to your dream.