It’s been more than 100 days since I've become an MBA student, and it’s hard to comprehend that 100 days have flown by as it usually is with time. Before joining, I had read many articles about what an MBA is like, and a lot of what I had read proved correct. But there were a lot of aspects that I felt were not covered or were different from what I expected.
Some of those significant lessons and learnings in these first 100 MBA days are:
- You'll have to meet A LOT of expectations!:- Everyone will have specific requirements from you. There will be deadlines, and one person’s mistake would lead to music for everyone. Certainly not for the weakhearted
- You will be busy!:- There would always be something going on. It is very likely that you may suffer from bouts of FOMO (Fear of Missing Out). You’ll have to pick and choose from the buffet or even beat out your own path.
- There will always be someone better than you:- In MBA, especially in the premier programs, you will be with the creme de la creme of the lot. Almost no matter what you think you’re good at, someone will be better than you, and that sometimes can be a big shock.
- You’ll need good company:- Probably the most significant change is the sheer amount of work you’ll have to do, and you can most likely do it alone. But the smart way is delegation, and that’s where excellent company comes in, making work fun.
- You will get your opportunity:- Some people will shine at the start and some may need time. So don’t lose your patience and prepare for your moment.
- Choose wisely:- To succeed in life, MBA is not the only path, although it is the one most sought after. Try to think about how an MBA would help you in your career before making plans to join it.
- Time Management:- This advice is probably associated with an MBA from as long as it has existed. But there is a reason for it, and time management cannot be stressed upon enough. You’ll never have enough hours in the day, and you will have to learn to say no, accept 90% and enjoy your life in small idle moments.
- It’s OK to be confused:- You’ll come with a plan, and then life will take an unexpected turn, and you’ll be confused with no plan. In such a moment, take a deep breath, trust yourself, and know that things will eventually fall into place.
Well, these were some of the lessons which my batchmates and I learned in our first 100 days of MBA. These will allow you to experience dedication, consistency, late-night studies, last moment submissions, 2 AM tea breaks and the struggles and troubles that are indispensable to the story of an MBA graduate. These subtle learnings have wholly shaped our lives for good.
Was it worth it?
Definitely!