Four Things I Wish I Knew Before Coming to Simon
December 31, 2024 | Lan-Huong Nguyen ’26S (MBA)
As the year draws to a close, it's a common time for reflection. As I think back on 2024, beginning my MBA at Simon was a milestone. I figured I'd take a look back at my journey so far and share four things I wish I had known before starting my degree in case it can be helpful for prospective students who have business school on their list of New Year's resolutions for 2025.
1. Embrace the Tight-Knit Simon Community—and Beyond
Simon’s small, supportive community fosters meaningful connections and opportunities to lead. You'll develop deep relationships through shared experiences—both challenging and rewarding—in your personal and professional career here. While this closeness is invaluable, remember to explore the vibrant and diverse Rochester community. From cultural events hosted at bookshops or pubs to local dining, expanding your social circle beyond Simon can bring fresh perspectives and a well-rounded MBA experience.
2. Have a Career Focus Before You Begin
The Simon curriculum is flexible enough to let you explore diverse career paths. Still, the fast-paced recruiting timeline means it’s crucial to have a general idea of your target function—marketing, consulting, or finance. I received this advice from an MBA student before starting at Simon, and it helped me approach coffee chats and interviews with intentionality. By narrowing my focus early, I could identify roles aligned with my values and goals, making my recruiting journey much smoother.
3. Plan Financially for Your MBA Journey
Start saving early! Setting aside money before enrolling will help cover conference fees, travel, and housing costs. I underestimated the financial demands of attending conferences and events, and looking back, I wish I had prepared more. Planning will ensure you can fully participate in these enriching opportunities.
4. Know Your Organization System and Set Clear Boundaries
Business school is a whirlwind of academic deadlines, interview prep, conferences, and social events, so staying organized is vital to managing it all. Develop a system that works for you—a digital planner, task management app, or a good old-fashioned notebook. Equally important is learning how to set and enforce personal boundaries. Prioritizing your time and saying “no” when necessary can help you maintain balance, stay focused on your goals, and avoid unnecessary stress or distractions.
Lan-Huong Nguyen is a member of Simon's MBA Class of 2026 and an admissions ambassador.
Follow the Admissions blog for insights into applying to Simon as well as many other topics. For more content like this, visit the Admissions Blog Main Page.
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