(Blog 1) The rigorous lifestyle of MBA students: A first trimer's perspective

 

With my first trimester closing fast, I have come to fully appreciate the thrilling yet challenging lifestyle that comes with pursuing this degree. Though very rich in new learning and opportunities, the experience has not been without its own share of challenges that have been put to some of my boundaries.
A Day in the Life
An MBA student's typical day is, by no means, a sprint. They start at 7:30 A.M. and I was sitting in class at 9:00 A.M. I am learning so much. Classes can run into the evening, and sometimes it is still going when it hits 4:30 P.M. It's big, with multiple lectures all in a row that seems to leave little time for breaks. The subjects are all interesting-the topics are some of the most creative that have been seen in strategic management through financial accounting-and yet it is overwhelming for someone who is used to a quieter lifestyle.
Once classes are done, the real work begins. Assignments loom large and threaten to command us into late night hours. Often, I find myself wrapping up my projects at 3:30 AM, only to wake up a few hours later. This cycle exhausts, and indeed, it has been one of the steepest learning curves for me. Adjusting to this grueling schedule hasn't only tested my stamina but spoken to efficient time management.
The Dilemma of the Balance
As I walk through this demanding environment, most times I feel that maintaining a personal life is quite a serious challenge. Time constraints feel truly very suffocating at times, giving me no moments for relaxation or social activities. I hope that with time, as I adjust to this lifestyle, I will learn better how to balance academic commitments with personal time; currently, it feels like a delicate juggling act, and studies take the priority more often.
Learning from Peers
Another one of the silver linings in this experience has been the diversity of my peers. My study group consists of individuals from vastly different backgrounds and, thus, bring vastly different experiences and insights. One friend in particular is an entrepreneur who runs his own startup and brings always-needed insight into the world of entrepreneurship. Working with such a diverse group not only enriches my understanding but also inspires me to push through the hard times.
Key Learnings
With this ride, I have learned a few hard lessons. First and foremost, deadlines are no joke in the business world. I mean, I have seen how important meeting deadlines is in business, but that's one of the principles this program teaches right from the start. I am also starting to understand just how important effective work habits are, with the saying "work smarter, not harder" ringing in my head. Indeed, prioritizing, keeping my time effective has become the sure way of getting past the kind of tough curriculum that awaits me.
At the end of it, life as an MBA student can be pretty rigorous, but it is very rewarding. I can imagine that all the knowledge gained, relationships built, and new skills developed will prepare me for challenges after life at school, in the business world. And during my journey, I learn how to master the art of balance, thriving in this fast-paced environment.