Five Tips for a Smooth Transition Back to School After Full-time Employment
“It’s been HOW LONG since you were in school?”
Since MBA programs often require a few years of professional work experience, a majority of MBA students haven’t made use of their study skills for a while. For this reason, many students find it difficult to get back into the “swing of things” when it comes to studying. Here are five tips to help make sure you’re fully prepared once that first class starts.
Organization is key. Everybody has their own preferences on how to stay organized, from sticky notes to project management apps to calendar blocking. Whatever your process is, implement it from the beginning of the quarter and maintain it throughout to stay up-to-date with everything on your plate.
Make a budget. Let’s face it, money stresses everybody out! Going back to school, especially in a full-time program without a full-time salary, means you’ll have some financial adjustments. By making–and sticking to–a budget, you’ll eliminate overspending and additional stress. There’s also a variety of financial aid available to Kellstadt students–from scholarships to assistantships, there’s support at every level.
Use your resources. I realized during my time at DePaul that faculty and staff truly want to help. If there’s a class you’re struggling with or career advice you’re seeking from a mentor, there’s a resource available or person who can help. There are also a variety of networking and university-sponsored events to take advantage of, including the Food for Thought program by the Office of Adult, Veteran, and Commuter Student Affairs, which encourages you to take a professor to lunch. Networking is always easier when lunch is involved!
Get to know your peers. I can’t express how fortunate I feel to be in my cohort. These classmates-turned-friends have been an invaluable support system–as study partners and helping me adjust to my new city. My cohort has become the foundation of my DePaul community and I know that I will have them to rely on as part of my network in the future.
Plan ahead. Valuable materials and resources will be shared with you starting on day one, so plan ahead to eliminate procrastination and last-minute stressors. Get a head start on the internship and job search by utilizing the many resources offered by the Kellstadt Career Management Center. Networking and job searching can be overwhelming, and the support offered by the CMC is invaluable.
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