Anyone who talks to an MBA student is likely to hear an awful lot about how busy they are. Sure there is a lot of work to get through but that’s not all we do. Most people here recognize that the value of the relationships you build during your MBA studies will probably exceed that gained from academic pursuits.
It’s not just about group projects, study dates and formal networking either. The long lasting friendships are being forged out on the sports fields, over a beer on pub night, at 2am when you’re still with your P2 group, ski trips to Whistler, and in my case on the front face of The Chief. It’s during these times that your personality gets a chance to come out and people really get to know you.
There is also nothing better than being able to have a chat with your prof’s over a coffee about non-academic issues. Given the opportunities I’ve been able to pursue already I see a lot of my prof’s as friends rather than instructors. I find I learn so much more in an environment of mutual respect, trust and open dialogue than from a straight lecture so it’s been hugely beneficial for me to be able to have those informal chats and really solidify my learning.
Over the break my classmates are heading to Mexico, the US, Australia, Asia, Europe, and India for leisure and to spend the holidays with family. It’s pretty awesome to think that within this one group we represent so many cultures and areas of the world. It’s a great feeling to know that in a years time I will have a huge network of influential friends all over the world.
I believe MBA changes an individual into a leader.More so the networking is an integral part of being a leader too.Nevertheless, a good insight.
Good comment. I don’tknow that an MBA will set everyone up for leadership positions as that very much depends on ones disposition. However the experience does give a lot more confidence in yourself and confidence is certainly a necessary quality in a leader.