What to Expect from a Michigan Ross Part-Time MBA: Advice from Current Students

To prepare you for the journey ahead, we asked current Ross School of Business Weekend MBA and Online MBA students to share their advice on how to start strong and make earning your MBA a manageable and rewarding experience. 

Tips Before Applying to a Michigan Ross Part-Time MBA Program

“Start with a clear 'why' before you apply or begin the program. Having a guiding purpose keeps you grounded, helps you show up authentically, and gives you the resilience to navigate challenges when the workload intensifies.”
Hussain Tajmahal, WMBA ’26

“The preparation phase is key. My advice is to answer the simple question: ‘If I study to get an MBA, what do I expect to become after graduation?’ Then get as specific as possible when you set your goal. Meaning, if you want an MBA for networking, then join clubs, find events, and connect with your classmates. If you want to get a better business mind, then get deep in the courses, review the faculty profiles, and the course content. The MBA offers a lot, and it is up to you to decide and select what to do. So prepare ahead of time for what you want so you can be fully focused on what you are interested in; otherwise, you might lose track and get distracted with the many things that are going on during the MBA.”
Alfredo Rodriguez, WMBA ’27

“When preparing to apply, research the program and see how it would add value to your career right now. During the application process, focus on refining your story and how your experience will uniquely add value to your cohort.” 
Suvrat Jain, WMBA ’26

“Before applying, be clear and honest about why you want an MBA. Your authenticity will show up in your essays and interviews, but more importantly, your "why" will help motivate you through the long nights of studying or challenging moments throughout the program.”
Ashley O'Brien, OMBA ’26

“If I could give one piece of advice to someone thinking about the Part-Time MBA at Ross, it would be this: prepare like you're making an important investment. When applying, take time to think about your reasons — why you want an MBA, why now, and why Ross. Be honest and clear in your essays and interviews. Once you're in, start building good habits early. Learn how to manage your time, set limits, and lean on your support system, both at work and at home. These things will help you succeed in the program.”
Kunal Dave, WMBA ’27

“While many people pursue an MBA for professional advancement, I urge you to also view it as an opportunity for deep personal growth. Before applying or starting the program, take the time to consider not just where you want your career to go, but who you want to become.

Ask yourself the following questions: What do I want to learn about myself? What kind of leader do I want to be — not just at work, but at home, in my community, and in moments of stress or conflict? How do I want to grow as a partner, a parent, and a son or daughter? Consider your listening skills, communication style, and ability to navigate ambiguity or chaos.

Sit with these questions. The MBA will challenge you in many ways — intellectually, emotionally, and socially. The more clarity you have on the kind of person and leader you aspire to be, the more meaningful and transformative the experience will be. During the application process, don't just focus on professional or financial goals — use this time to reflect and craft the best version of yourself across all areas of life.”
Anjli Lodhavia, WMBA ’27

Tips Before Starting a Michigan Ross PTMBA Program

“The biggest piece of advice I'd give to prospective PTMBA students is to do everything you can to get ahead. Meet your future classmates ahead of time. Attend tours. Get your books ahead of time. Take a look at your assignments the day they come out and familiarize yourself with everything Ross has to offer. It can be overwhelming if you fall behind and mistakes start to happen. Be proactive in everything you do. It sounds straightforward, but when you're dealing with class, travel, your full-time job, and trying to balance a personal life, you can and will get overwhelmed. Know that you're not alone and don't be afraid to ask for help.”
Cameron Fuoti, WMBA ’27

“Talk to current students and ask them how they balance work, life, and school — it’ll give you a clearer picture than any website can. Once you're in, treat your calendar like your best friend. Blocking time each week for class and prep helps you stay ahead and actually enjoy the experience. But don’t feel like you have to do it all every day. It’s okay to take a break — this is a marathon, not a sprint. Find a rhythm that works for you, and give yourself the grace to adjust along the way.”
Ramya Vetukuri, WMBA ’26

“It’s easy to get swept up in the classes, assignments, and the adjustment back into academic life. However, one of the most valuable parts of the PTMBA Program is the people you meet along the way. Make the effort to attend Welcome Weekend, sign up for a residency early in the program, or stop by office hours, not just for academics, but to connect with your peers. The relationships I built early on became the foundation of my experience. They made the challenging moments more manageable and turned the program into something truly unforgettable!”
Megan Hellendall, OMBA ’25

“Be confident, passionate, and open-minded — understand what you want out of the program and lean into all the opportunities Ross will give you to learn and grow.”
William Hsiao, WMBA ’27

“Working and going to school for more than two years is not easy, and many of us do it with young kids. Outsource or automate whatever you can to reduce decision-making and make life a little easier. Sign up for the meal kit delivery service, auto ship your paper towels and dish soap, hire a cleaning service, schedule a non-negotiable monthly date night, etc.”
Ashley O'Brien, OMBA ’26