Pursuing the Mba

Pursuing the MBA: A Tool to Enrich a Planning Career

University of Phoenix

With an economy recovering from a recession, unemployment reaching record breaking highs, employers across the nation are becoming more selective in their workforce. Employees are expected to be diverse, and possess more than just a bachelor’s degree. With limited resources, employers look for individuals not only communicate clearly, but are able to multitask, and to cover more ground than the position calls for. As an aspiring urban planner, I have noticed that many positions lie within organizations or governmental bodies that have limited resources, forcing their applicants to be masters of multi-tasking. They strategize and implement community programs and oversee all steps of urban development projects. In my undergraduate career, I learned the theory and practice of planning; how to revitalize communities that will not only enrich the character, but the overall beauty of the community. Unfortunately, my program failed to prepare for what it takes to develop and manage the urban development of a community. It is crucial for planners to not only grasp the regulations or types of development the community strive for, but being sensitive to the needs of the citizens in the community they serve. That is why I believe that it is crucial for anyone in my career field to further their educational experience in a management related program. This paper will examine the skills which are essential to becoming a good manager, and how they coordinate to a planning career. Furthermore, offering evidence proving why I would make a not only essentially a successful urban planner, but a development manager.

As best put by Phillip Kobport in his article “Management vs. Leadership” , “Great leaders have vision, honesty, passion, authenticity, great communication skills, and competencies” (Kibort, 2004). He goes on to share that he believes that leaders seek this position in...