You're right Don Des. Its definitely a lot harder for a non-MBA for example to make that first really strong impression. Or like you pointed out to get a chance at that interview to prove your point. But does that still mean an MBA warrants it more? I just think its a very overrated line of thinking. And I'd apply convention here to say that companies have been built on reputations of people who've worked their way up. And not some guys who went through a simulated environment to land a cushy job without even knowing the crux of it. I dont think ethics, personality and the will to succeed can be taught. They're intrinsic qualities, and quite frankly all one needs to get ahead in life. Having said that, I'll go to the extent of saying a broader understanding of the subject is better learnt on the job than in a classroom.