We finally got our final grade in my first MBA class, Strategic Resource Management.  After all the hard work, I was expecting a low “B”.  I was pleasantly surprised when I found out that I got a “B+” (87.80%).  This is good news.

I wanted to outline some thoughts and observations that I have accumulated during this first course.  

The MBA program is not for everyone.  In order to succeed in this first course, I had to change my study habits and dedicate a lot more time to it (just to get a “B”).  If you are not 100% dedicated to putting forth a total effort, you should not waste the money and time.

Collect your resources.  Have a library on hand or a large personal collection of books on the subjects you are studying.  You will need them.  I have found that one of the best ways to improve the quality of your work and show your professor that you are in the game to win is to use outside, credible sources of information in your work.

When you know an opportunity to collaborate with other people in the class is coming, step up and volunteer to lead!  This is one thing these professors are looking for.  And believe it or not, not all MBA students are leaders.  Some of them are looking to be led.  This is a great opportunity to shine.

Time management is so very crucial to your success.  If you don’t have it, you will fail.

Network with your classmates.  Distance learning means that you will probably have people in your class from all over the country or the world.  Get to know them.  You might need to call on them for advice in the future.

Pick a rigorous program.  My suggestion (and only a suggestion) is that you pick a school that has a traditional brick and mortar campus that is well established AND has an online program that mirrors the on-campus program.  This helps to ensure that you will be challenged.

Always remember: Anything worth having is not easy.  Nothing is free!