Six figure dollar sums are, for most people, and for me, no bagatelle. When one's career trajectory is stellar and opportunities for practical experience and professional progression are plentiful, it is a colossal decision to forego two years' salary, take the momentum out of one's ascent to 'Achievement', and pay so much money to go back to school. Almost everyone I spoke to in the UK thought I was crazy.

For me, an MBA was not a golden ticket. It was much more than that.

I can't claim to have quantified the risk, nor established the financial return on my investment. What I hope to gain from the next two years is more than just a golden ticket to a successful career that will allow me to pay back my loans quickly and live very comfortably.

By broadening and deepening my perspectives on the spectrum of activities and disciplines that drive global economies, I hope to become a more able, accurate thinker and strategic problem solver. I hope to expand my skill base and come to understand myself more completely. I hope to build an exceptional network of smart, interesting, driven and supportive friends with whom I will share my career and my life. I hope to be able to make more meaningful and substantial contributions to the world around me. For me, these things are not simply means to achieving wealth and success; they are ends in themselves. These aspirations were the catalyst for my decision to embark on this journey.