How to Get Ready for MBA Classes

Many MBA programs prefer students to have prior business experience.

Professionals looking to further their career may pursue a Masters of Business Administration (MBA) degree. The process for obtaining a MBA includes studying for and completing the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) and applying for admission into the business school of your choice. Business school provides students insight into business management practices, career development strategies, technical skills, entrepreneurial options and networking opportunities. Preparing for MBA classes requires students to transition from life as a business professional into one of a student, while assessing their individual strengths and weaknesses.

Instructions

1. Study general business and economic terms until you are proficient with their usage. Knowing appropriate terminology prior to attending class will help with understanding in-class discussions. Not understanding key terms while trying to process new information will hinder your ability to learn quickly.

2. Familiarize yourself with the financial operations of the company you work for. Applying lessons learned in class directly to real world scenarios will help you grasp new concepts, while improving your understanding of the business.

3. Read the financial section of a major news publication daily and several weekly business periodicals. Knowing the latest business news and trends will allow you to contribute during in-class discussions, while increasing your understanding of the business world.

4. Practice using business software and refresh general computer skills. Proficient knowledge of word processor and spreadsheet programs, along with strong typing skills, will improve your ability to work on business school-related tasks.

5. Practice basic accounting and statistics methods. Much of what you will learn in business school will be finance driven. A solid understanding of math principles prior to attending class will allow you to complete assignments with greater ease.

Tips & Warnings

• Students who are returning to school after a long absence may need to relearn good study habits. Find a quiet space that allows you to easily focus on the task at hand.

References

• One Stop MBA: Why An MBA, Define MBA
• Temple University Fox School of Business: Preparing For the Executive MBA Program
• Grad Schools: Preparing to Get an MBA