Getting an MBA? Make Sure You Dress the Part

Getting your MBA is more than attending class, acing exams and finishing at the top of class. The MBA, perhaps more than any other degree, requires a lot of networking opportunities — meetings and meet-ups that may or may not involve copious amounts of alcohol consumption while “vision questing” a future world takeover with the next multinational. Consider it prep for the future.

Much like working your way up the corporate ladder, going to Business School is fast paced, stressful and requires you to present yourself with decorum, however under-slept and delirious you may be inside. Doing that requires high-quality gear for the on-the-go lifestyle. These essentials will go a long way towards advancing your professional life, while still allowing you to keep your loans under the mesosphere.

Studying

Take Note(s)

HP Elitebook Folio 1020 ($1,249+)
Light enough to carry around campus, more than powerful enough to build spreadsheets.

Zebra Sharbo X LT3 ($36)
Work your way up to the Montblanc; until then, this is a nice step into the world of upscale pens.

Moleskine Evernote Business Notebook ($33)
Because studies show handwriting notes helps retain information.

Inateck 2.4GHZ Wireless Pointer ($17)
For those impromptu PowerPoint presentations on “synergy”.

Relaxing

If You Find the Time

Audio-Technica ATH-ANC7B Noise-Canceling Headphones ($109)
These noise-canceling headphones not only work great, they also fit into a frugal financial plan.

How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying ($15)
Consider it both entertainment and study material.

Nikka Yoichi Single Malt ($53)
Impress the top brass with your nuanced taste in single malts.

Interviewing

Keep Your Eyes on the Prize

Black Lapel Cool Gray 3-Piece Suit ($599+)
Black Lapel’s online custom suits offer premium bespoke tailoring at a modest price point.

Allen Edmonds LAX Derby Shoe ($295)
Lighter and more comfortable than traditional dress shoes, for comfort while working the room.

Saddleback Notepad Holder ($148)
A quality “padfolio” will hold copies of the business plan, while a pad for note taking allows for revisions.

Hamilton Jazzmaster ($639)
A quality, understated watch displays refinement and (appropriate) humility.

Around Town

You’re Going Places, Kid

Mercedes-Benz 560SEC
An ’80s-era Merc is classy and timeless, and the best drive you’ll get for $10,000.

Zojirushi SM-KHE48AG Stainless Steel Mug ($29)
More polished than that Oracle mug you nabbed from the grad student lounge.

Billykirk Schoolboy Satchel ($375)
Simple, practical and professional — ideal for a bag that can pull double duty for class and the real world.

Mackintosh Longford (~$1,177)
Now that you have your bespoke suit, protect it. This investment will last until retirement.

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