Study Overseas

The answer is yes, if you choose to do your MBA in California.

The Golden State has been created for 'gold' hunters, those of us who have a curious mind and are not afraid of discovering new opportunities and new horizons. The 'gold' that you will find in California may come in different shapes and forms, but you will find it.

Once you've finally decided on the California school that you want to attend to earn an MBA, you can start preparing yourself for the new adventure. But in case you haven't made that important decision yet, don't be misled by any 'official' school rankings - you want the school and educational experience that's best for you.

California has plenty of good Universities to consider, but you need to be aware that state schools will charge you extra tuition if you are not a resident. Nothing to worry about - that may still be a good deal.

In addition to the state schools and the UC system, there are good private Universities that do not discriminate with tuition for non-residents, which may be one of the best-kept secrets in California. Just as you will discover a different California from your typical guidebook description, you may find the best fit for you is with a smaller private University. Once you choose the right school and have arrived in California, you will have plenty of opportunities to search for your 'gold'.

This is not meant to distract you from concentrating on your hard work and studies for a new degree, but rather to help you relax and recharge your batteries. Small town Universities are never very far from the California sights, being close to Los Angeles and the elusive Hollywood - it does exist, but it's not that easy to understand its exact geographic location. It definitely isn't the famous, or infamous, Hollywood Boulevard and its star walk - a common misconception of most tourists who come to California. San Diego, with its own attractions and good business school, is popular with many visitors, as is Laguna Beach, with its famous arts festival.

Wherever you decide to reside in Southern California, you certainly won't get bored! Once you find your own perfect space, though, you need to remember one thing: in California you need a car. It's almost impossible to do or see anything here without those four wheels.

Each weekend, you will struggle between going to one of the nearby beaches or local mountains, or one of the thousands of tourist attractions in California. There are also the most beautiful parks and lakes, and don't forget the mysterious deserts. You can almost always count on California weather in the County of Angels - on a warm California winter day, you may roller blade, cycle or play beach volleyball in the morning, and then snow ski in the afternoon or evening. You also will have the chance to experience the many different world cultures that are coexisting here, and perhaps even learn more about your own cultural background.

Finally, you can't miss at least a day in Las Vegas, 5 hours away in the State of Nevada. It's a must to see the newest casinos and works of human imagination, like Venice and Bellagio, Monte Carlo, New York, or the well-known Cesar's. You don't have to gamble or spend the big money either to visit and enjoy Las Vegas. Once you have experienced Southern California and found your own 'gold', most likely you will be tempted to come back here again. You won't be alone.

Author
Julius M Walecki, PhD
Director of Program Development
University of La Verne, School of Business & Global Studies