How women thrive in business school | Education

Business school may seem like a male-dominated profession, but more women are entering and thriving Master of Business Administration Program.

Admissions female Data from the Forte Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing opportunities for female business leaders, shows that the number of applicants to 58 top full-time MBA programs in the United States, Europe and Canada will grow to a record 42% in fall 2023, up from 41% in 2022, 38% in 2018 and 34% in 2013.

“Women who are admitted to top business schools are often high achievers, which can put a lot of pressure on them to get into an MBA program,” said Alice van Harten, founding partner of admissions consulting firm Menlo Coaching, who counsels MBA candidates.

She advises women to set clear goals before starting an MBA and to “think about how to spend your time and energy, and how to be okay with imperfection.”

Triada Cross is pursuing a dual MBA and Master of Science in Tourism, Hospitality and Event Management. George Washington University School of Business A female MBA student in Washington, D.C., said female MBA students have great potential for success, “but entering a field that has historically been dominated by men can be daunting.”

“Find your supporters and cheerleaders who will give you motivation when assignments, projects and finals get tough,” said Cross, who also serves as executive vice president of the Black MBA Association at George Washington University.

Here are a few other ways women can succeed in business school.

Whether you’re looking to change careers or advance in your current field, it’s important to do your research and choose the right program and school, experts say.

To find the right person, check out Business School Elissa Sangster, CEO of the Forté Foundation, recommends looking for schools with active recruiters from companies you’re interested in, campus events and active alumni. She says students should also look to see if the school fits their requirements in terms of location, clubs, culture and other factors.

“Does the school have a large number of female students, female faculty, and top professors in the areas where you need to grow?” Sangster asked.

Experts say it’s important to raise your hand, speak with authority and participate actively in the classroom.

“Women can succeed in business school by actively participating in discussions inside and outside the classroom, asking questions and contributing their perspectives,” said Shaifali Aggarwal, founder and CEO of MBA admissions consulting firm Ivy Groupe.

Sangster said it’s important to speak with authority in class and to remember that “one way to engage the class is to share an idea that others can build on.”

Being actively involved in class also means making an effort to talk to your professor, including scheduling office hours to meet and chat.

“Connect with faculty and mentors and be open to seeking guidance,” Senay Agca said., Chief Diversity Officer and Professor of Finance at the George Washington University School of Business.

Experts say maintaining a close relationship with a professor or mentor may pay dividends after you graduate from business school.

According to Fortune magazine, women hold 10.4% of leadership positions at Fortune 500 companies by June 2023. Meanwhile, Forte reported in 2023 that 8% of S&P 500 CEOs are women, and 45% of them have an MBA or equivalent degree.

Experts say taking on leadership roles early in life can help women lay the foundation for such roles later in their careers.

Agarwal says lead Positions in student organizations include serving as club president, committee chair or event organizer. “These experiences provide opportunities to practice leadership skills such as decision-making, delegation and conflict resolution.”

Students should also participate in leadership development programs or workshops sponsored by the business school or outside organizations, Agarwal said.

“These programs often provide training in areas such as team building, communication and strategic planning — a solid foundation for success in business school,” she said.

Agarwal said students can build their own networks by connecting with other classmates and alumni through student organizations, study groups and social events.

“Women in business school can connect with people who can provide support, encouragement and valuable insights to help them navigate their time in business school,” she said, adding that female MBA students should seek out mentorship, career advice and networking opportunities.

“Many women at this stage in their lives begin to think about how to combine a successful career with a family, and it’s valuable to learn from other female leaders how they combined demanding careers with raising children,” Van Hatten said.

Building a network during business school is crucial, Sangster said. “Those connections will help you get your first job.” Post-MBA Jobs and other roles in your career. Seek out female leaders you may want to emulate in your own career path.”

While in business school, it’s important to find a good balance between school and life outside.

“Women should prioritize activities and commitments that bring them joy, fulfillment and balance outside of their academic and professional responsibilities,” Agarwal said.

She said students should remember that “their well-being is critical to their long-term success and happiness in their personal lives, academically and professionally.”

“Be resilient,” Aka said. “Reflect on your failures, but learn from them and keep moving forward. Have a growth mindset, don’t be afraid of risks, believe in yourself and enjoy school.”

And don’t forget to have fun and make friends along the way, Cross said.

“Challenge yourself to balance socializing and studying, because business school is often a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet a Different kinds “A group of people.”