Another article on the true value of an MBA

[Basket Weaver]

Working at a technical school in Florida, believe it or not -- these days-- this is a story we have heard similar to what others are living through. The difference is how you deal with it and this guy and his family is doing well with the "dealing" and adjusting part.

I can tell you stories of an Engineer (with a degree) whose job was computer/CAD based and his company completely outsourced his job to India. He is taking a 12-month practical nursing program, where he can get licensed and get a job paying about $19 an hour and then work toward his RN.

I ran into 2 twin brothers who had BS in science and had been teaching in our public school system. They were "surplussed" last June when all of the teacher cuts took place -- as property prices have fallen, so has the tax base, not to mention people are leaving Florida and moving home to live with other family members, etc. Both of them were looking into the health courses as well.

I've had students who were laid off from American Express and were used to making $50,000 a year and can't get a job.

Bottom line is no degree, MBA or otherwise, will protect you from a down market -- but having other skills you can fall back on will help you get through to the other side of the tough times.

I agree, my MBA has proven to be about worthless in helping me land a decent job. Either the employers think you want a fortune for a salary or they think you are overqualified...of course I live in a smaller town, if we were to pack up and move I'm sure we would find something better...but at a cost.

I have decided to use my knowledge/education to open my own business and work for myself. Actually the idea of working for someone else turns my stomach...I guess its just knowing they are getting rich off of my efforts. I am in the midst of building a 3,000 sq. ft shop and outfitting it with equipment. I figured I would buy the stuff for myself anyways because its also my hobby. We'll see how it goes! Wish me luck and keep me in your prayers.