The Rigors and Rewards of Balancing Work and MBA Studies at LBS

Starting my journey at LBS has been incredibly rewarding but it is important to acknowledge that it comes with significant implications as we balance work life and student life together. It’s a unique experience that requires dedication and careful time management. Before I opted for an MBA program, I knew it was going to be tasking combining school and work together but I never knew how intense and overwhelming it was going to get.

When I started my first and second weeks as a student, I was like, “Whoa, things escalated quickly!” I was expecting a slow start, but bam! It was intense right from the beginning. I found myself wondering how I got myself into this situation, I immediately got overwhelmed with the workload in school coupled with my deliverables at work. Let me tell you now, an MBA program at LBS is no joke. It demands serious time management and dedication to make it through. At week one to week 3, I found myself rounding up my day at 11pm and eating dinner at 10pm. This is obviously an unhealthy way to leave and it’s not sustainable.

Being an MBA student requires active participation in classes. Class participation plays a significant role in your overall evaluation, so it’s crucial to study ahead of each session. Some courses involve case studies that need to be reviewed in advance, often requiring collaboration with your group members. This means you will have to allocate time for group meetings to prepare for upcoming classes, which can sometimes stretch for hours. It may sound crazy, but it’s all part of the process.

Managing deadlines is another essential aspect. To stay on track, I found it helpful to create a board where I list all my weekly deliverables. For example, writing blog posts three times a week for the management communication course. It’s easy to forget, so having a visual reminder keeps me accountable and helps me avoid procrastination. Procrastination is one thing is avoid as an MBA student in LBS. To do list can pile up real quick as there is always something to get done for each courses coupled with work deliverables.

The program will undoubtedly demand a significant portion of your time. So, if you’re a social butterfly, be prepared to scale back a bit. However, it’s crucial to find moments for relaxation. Personally, I love listening to music, so I take short breaks to unwind and catch up with family and friends. It helps me reset and recharge before diving back into work and school commitments. Time management is key, and getting enough rest by sleeping early is also important for maintaining balance.

Despite the challenges and intensity, as I reflect on this journey, I can genuinely say I’m glad to be an LBS student. The demanding workload and tight schedules may be overwhelming at times, but the skills and knowledge gained are invaluable. Balancing work and school life is a test of resilience, and every late night spent studying or meeting deadlines feels like an investment in my future. As I navigate through this demanding but rewarding journey, I appreciate the transformative experience that being an MBA student at LBS offers, shaping not only my career but also my character.

#MMBA5