It’s that time of the year; all prospective MBA students are researching business schools all over the world to find the best fit! Some of the things all of you do include:

• Checking rankings
• Googling
• Following the b-schools on Social Media and regular media
• Browsing websites
• Talking to alumni

How about understanding what an MBA education really is? Many people pursue an MBA for improving their career prospects. It is very true, after an MBA education, graduates tend to make more money. Furthermore, pursuing an MBA with an internship has even better returns.  A very recent article on GMAC’s Quick Clips e-newsletter discusses the importance of internship and how people who pursue an MBA with an internship actually have 26% higher chances to find a job. [Another great reason to pursue Rotman’s full-time MBA program!] As you can see there are more opportunities out there for those who pursue an MBA than who don’t.

However, there is one thing that is definitely worth mentioning: An MBA will provide you with the tools you need to succeed in your career, though it is a fast track to more senior level roles, you definitely need to put your whole heart into your job search during and after your MBA. Having this great education under your belt will definitely open great doors for you but it is up to you to make the most of these opportunities.

When you are short-listing your business schools, keep this in mind and look closer to both curricular and extra-curricular activities a business school has to offer. Finding out more about what you will be experiencing throughout your MBA education can be very important in your decision making process.