Tips for Women to Succeed in Business School

The landscape of business schools is changing as more women are enrolling and excelling in MBA programs. According to the Forte Foundation, enrollment of women in top full-time MBA programs in the U.S., Europe, and Canada reached a record 42% in fall 2023, up from 41% in 2022 and showing a steady increase from previous years.

Alice van Harten, a founding partner of Menlo Coaching, advises women entering MBA programs to set clear goals and embrace imperfection. Triada Cross, a dual MBA and master of science student at George Washington University School of Business, emphasizes the importance of building a support network to stay motivated during the challenging program.

Experts suggest that choosing the right business school, being active in the classroom, taking on leadership roles, building a strong network, and balancing school and personal life are key factors for success in business school. Elissa Sangster, CEO of the Forte Foundation, recommends researching schools with active recruiters from desired companies and a strong percentage of female students and faculty.

Shaifali Aggarwal, founder of Ivy Groupe, highlights the importance of active participation in class discussions and seeking mentorship from professors. Senay Agca, chief diversity officer at GWU’s business school, emphasizes the value of building relationships with mentors for post-graduation success.

Ultimately, finding a balance between academic and personal life, embracing challenges, and enjoying the experience are essential for women to thrive in MBA programs and beyond. As more women enter the historically male-dominated field of business, their success and contributions continue to shape the future of business leadership.