The importance of community in an international MBA program

Amy Brothers, MBA ’24

Community is developing a sense of fellowship with others who share common interests and goals. The “goodness” that we find in community is the chance to engage in diverse ways of thinking while bringing together people with unique backgrounds to form that fellowship. Along with diverse perspectives, there are also opportunities to connect, build relationships and optimize networks to add value to an individual’s professional development.

An international MBA program typically attracts students from various cultural, educational and professional backgrounds. Engaging with a diverse community allows students to gain exposure to different perspectives, ideas and approaches to problem solving. This diversity enriches the learning experience and prepares students to thrive in a globalized business environment.

Building a strong community within an international MBA program provides ample networking opportunities. Students can connect with classmates, alumni, faculty and guest speakers from all over the world. These connections can lead to valuable professional contacts, mentorship opportunities and even job offers in different regions or industries.

Interacting with classmates from diverse cultural backgrounds fosters cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. Spartan students learn to navigate cultural differences, communicate effectively across cultural boundaries and develop cultural intelligence, which is an essential skill in today’s interconnected business world. Collaboration is a fundamental aspect of business education, and an international MBA program like Broad’s Full-Time MBA and STEM MBA offers an ideal environment for collaborative learning. Working closely with classmates from different countries and industries enhances teamwork skills, encourages knowledge sharing and stimulates creativity and innovation.

Pursuing an MBA can be demanding, both academically and personally. A strong community provides a supportive environment where students can seek advice, share experiences and receive encouragement from their peers. This sense of camaraderie fosters personal growth and resilience throughout the program. International MBA programs often include opportunities for international travel, study tours or global consulting projects. Engaging with a diverse community exposes students to global business practices, economic trends and sociopolitical issues. This exposure helps students develop a broader understanding of the global marketplace and prepares them to be effective global leaders.

Lastly, a vast alumni network is a valuable asset for MBA graduates throughout their careers. By fostering a strong sense of community during the program, the Broad College of Business has cultivated lifelong connections among alumni. This network provides ongoing support, professional development opportunities and access to job opportunities in various industries and geographic locations.