The last one year has been the most exciting, and challenging for all of us. A class of 200+ students with different backgrounds, skill sets, aspirations and motivations came together to earn a well-deserved MBA from one of the top schools in US, and it feels like so different now that I realize that I’ve graduated. I’m sure all the other graduating students feel the same.
For me the time spent in school was all about learning from others, faculties, guests and staff, but most of all, from my fellow classmates. They have been a continual source of knowledge and wisdom, and I hope to keep learning no matter where I am. Now that we are newly minted MBAs, I feel that I am part of a new program, Master of Learning and Application; and it’s all about applying what you have learned, to gain more from that experience and learn more.
What makes this MBA special is not what we discuss in classrooms or breakout rooms or seminars. The learning was 24/7. It started at 1300 Clifton Rd, but it continued at WinShape, in China, Brazil, and Dubai, during GALA, at The Skydive Farm, in Omaha, and so many other places. For me, nothing can beat the experience of watching soccer in the commons with an overwhelming number of Manchester United supporters (most of whom I believe are band-wagoners), or meeting the Oracle of Omaha, Mr. Warren Buffett, himself, or even climbing the Great Wall of China. And none of these things are part of an MBA curriculum. All these things happen because someone wanted it to happen, and they led the way.
Given the current state of economy, this year has been very challenging for us. However, I truly believe that a sound investment in education can never ever go wrong. We’ll all reap the benefits of our hardships much sooner than later. Many of us don’t exactly know what we are going to do in the near future, and I, similar to what other people have said, feel this is a blessing in disguise. This is the time to discover those hidden skills that we have, to try out new things; because you never know what you can do, or what you would want to do in future. Eight years ago, when our family business was on the brink of bankruptcy, I chose not to pursue an MBA, and move into technology. A couple of years ago, I made the transition back from technology into business because I feel that is where my strengths lie. I hope to keep trying new things and gain more perspectives about everything.
So, what’s the moral of this rambling? What did I learn from my MBA? Always try new things, but know where your strengths lie. Business is personal, business is based on relationships, and that is where you should be investing in school.
Read the full article: First post as an alum