Rs 3.5 LPA to Rs 20 LPA in just 3 years: Young software engineer faces a tough choice between MBA and technical career

A young software engineer with three years of experience recently shared a post on social media about a major professional dilemma. Technologists are at a crossroads, debating whether to continue working in the technology industry or obtain an MBA to advance their career prospects.

Starting from a top IT company with a salary of INR 3.5 lakh, the individual moved to a top 4 company as a data engineer, where his salary rose to INR 11 lakh. With SQL, PLSQL, Python, dbt, AWS and Power BI skills, they are now considering a job switch which could lead to a salary of around Rs 20 LPA.

Alternatively, they are considering an MBA from the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), excluding A, B, C, L and S campuses. However, doing an MBA requires a loan of Rs 15-20 lakh, with the possibility of getting a starting salary of Rs 20 LPA after graduation. Despite expectations, one is concerned about the challenges that even senior independent investment managers face in securing employment, raising doubts about the return on investment.

The professional recognizes the advantages of staying in the technology industry, such as the flexibility of remote work, the potential for career growth in the USA due to the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) designation, and the wide range of job opportunities provided by the thriving technology sector.

However, they also realize that without an MBA, they will only obtain a bachelor’s degree, which may limit their chances of moving into senior management positions and the prestige associated with an IIT or IIM qualification. Their main goal is to find a career path that provides a good balance between a fulfilling professional life and personal time for travel and family.

They seek advice on whether the significant time and financial investment required to pursue an MBA would be beneficial in this context. While they are open to learning from others who have faced similar crossroads, they stress the importance of receiving advice based on real experience and practical insights, rather than vague suggestions like “follow your passion.”

An individual grapples with a decision based on balancing the immediate high earnings in the technology sector with the long-term benefits that an MBA may offer, especially in terms of work-life balance and financial growth. They consider the pros and cons of both options, and aim to find the path that best aligns with their career goals and lifestyle aspirations.

In response to online comments, one commenter inquired whether the person enjoyed his current job, to which the individual responded that he works primarily for financial reasons, and that neither technology nor management is his true passion.