When you’ve gone to a strong school and had a great undergraduate experience, does that mean that you should automatically put their MBA at the top of your list? Top-tier schools would be hard to pass by, and it never hurts your admissions package when you’re already an alumnus, but keep in mind that a business program is completely different than a bachelor’s, and you may not realize what you’re signing up for.

When considering becoming a double alma mater, here are a few things to think about:

1. Is the MBA program specialized towards your goals and needs?
2. What’s the overlap in curriculum and staff?
3. How much is comfort a factor in your decision?

First, you need to realize that undergrad programs and MBA programs are completely different. Remembering that half of your undergrad was probably spent in general studies, a lot of the experience is built around socialization and the formation of your intellectual professional development. A Master’s program is going to be entirely specialized towards your business development, so there are different considerations. Does the program focus on certain areas of business? What career services do they have? Alumni connections? Don’t be quick to think that a great formative education will always translate into a great continued one.

Second, especially if you majored in a business field such as finance or accounting, is there overlap between curriculum and staff? As nice as it is to think that you’re getting the best of the best in any MBA program, the reality is much of the staff teaches at both levels. If you’ve already had a professor, the odds are pretty good that you’re going to repeat material and already know their teaching style. Adaptability and change is hugely important in the business world, which you shouldn’t overlook.

Lastly, think about the softer characteristics of the school. What city is it in? How diverse is it? If you’re looking at a school because your environment is comfortable, you may want to look at options that will push you in new directions. Growth and development are the only ways to continue improving your competitive advantage in the workforce. If you think sticking around will put you in a rut, then force yourself to think outside your comfort zone.

Undergrad and grad school aren’t the same thing. You know this instinctively, so think about the ways that they differ when considering returning to your alma mater for an MBA. If a program isn’t a good fit for your professional aspirations, if it doesn’t push you to adapt and grow, then it doesn’t matter how strong the school’s name is or how comfortable you may be. Don’t be afraid to take your career in a different direction, when your MBA should be the start.

By Jarrod Stokes