Conquering course selection

Starting your MBA journey can feel overwhelming, from finding your classroom and figuring out parking to understanding how to get your materials. But before any of those challenges arise, the first big decision you’ll face is course selection. I’m halfway through my MBA program and I want to share some insights that have been incredibly helpful in navigating this process.

Map out your journey early

First off, congratulations on getting started! That’s a huge milestone. Now, it’s time to think ahead. One of the most important factors in course planning is understanding your runway — how long you plan to take to finish your degree. Keep in mind that not every course is available every semester. Summer in particular offers fewer options. Figuring out how many classes you can realistically handle per semester and how many semesters a year you’ll attend will help you stay on track and avoid surprises down the line.

Don’t Save All Your Electives for the End

Electives are a great way to dive deeper into areas that interest you but it’s important to plan ahead. Some electives are only offered in the fall or spring so waiting until the end of your program to take them could lead to scheduling conflicts or even a delayed graduation. Start exploring your elective options early and work them into your plan so you have the flexibility to take the ones that excite you most.

Learn from Your Classmates

Not all courses are created equal. Some are more demanding in terms of creativity while others require more time due to a heavy or consistent workload. Balancing this with your work and personal life can be tricky, especially during busy seasons. Your classmates are an invaluable resource — they’ve been through the courses you’re considering and can share their experiences. Ask around, gather advice and you’ll have a much better sense of how to manage your workload effectively each semester.

Give Yourself Grace

Lastly, remember that you don’t have to be perfect. MBA programs can be demanding but everyone wants to see you succeed — from your professors to the administrative staff. If you’re facing challenges, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Life happens and most people will understand if you need some flexibility. Communicating early can open up more options for managing any difficulties you encounter. Above all, be kind to yourself. If you miss a homework assignment or things don’t go perfectly, it’s okay. Take a breath, regroup and keep moving forward.