To get the most of an MBA program, individuals should go into the program with a good idea of their eventual career goal but with enough flexibility that they take unexpected, novel courses that will challenge them to think in new ways. Individuals can think of business school as a time to explore old interests and delve into new ones, but they should always have an final goal in sight and orient their studies to that goal.
Some business school students look at the experience as a networking opportunity. While this is an aspect of business school and the contacts made there can benefit alumni throughout their careers, individuals should never devalue their classroom studies. Business school is the time to pick up new, marketable skills and challenge one’s existing skill set with difficult, inspiring courses.