MBA1s: Welcome to Stern! This semester is nothing any of us could have envisioned, but hopefully, the tips and life advice below help make your first semester a little easier. Here are a few things I wish I could go back and tell myself before my first semester.
- Don’t be afraid to ask MBA2s for help
I can’t stress this one enough. Last year, I always felt like I was bugging the second years by asking them questions, but now that I’m on the other side, I love being asked questions. The second years will be the best resource for you because they were in your shoes just a few short months ago. Whether you reach out to someone through a club or cold email someone you want to learn more about, most of us are more than willing to help out.
- Sign up for a fun class
I found that I got caught up in registering for classes that I thought would look a certain way on my resume, or help me in my industry, but it’s important to pick a just-for-fun class. Not to sound preachy, but we’re all very fortunate to go to a business school like NYU and we should take full advantage of the wide variety of classes available to us. It’s always a good idea to ask other students, who have taken a class, what they thought of it, but you may end up liking a class that someone else didn’t. Spend some time scrolling through the class list and be spontaneous!
- Reach out to classmates to hang out
Because this is the first time any of us have been to school virtually, it’s important to try and create social events to meet more people (following Covid guidelines, of course). Blocks and clubs are great ways to meet people, and make a concerted effort to see those people when possible. Whether it’s biking around the city or grabbing drinks outside, there are plenty of outdoor activities available in NYC.
- Go to office hours
Whether it’s to ask a question about an exam or get preliminary feedback on a paper, it is always worth it to visit a professor in office hours. We have great faculty here at Stern (not sponsored, but would love to be), and it is worth it to learn as much as possible from them. Most professors have their virtual doors open and are happy to schedule time to chat. TAs are also always very responsive, so don’t be afraid to ask them questions as well.
- Join non-professional clubs
Anyone in Adventures, Follies, or Cellar can tell you, non-professional clubs are the most fun. Not only are social clubs a great way to meet new people, these ones also give you the opportunity to take part in activities you’re interested in. Whether it’s playing sports, performing in theatre, or drinking wine, there’s a club with events for everyone. Browse through the Office of Student Engagement website and sign up for events through Campus Groups!
- Pay attention during block time
Your block leaders volunteered to be a resource for MBA1s, so make sure to pay attention during block time. A lot of important information is disseminated during that period, and your block leaders are available to answer any questions. They can also point you in the right direction when it comes time to ask other MBA2s for professional advice.
- Write for the Oppy
Are you interested in writing for a premier publication with headquarters in the heart of New York City? Do you want to be part of an elite club of some of the best journalists in town? Join the Oppy today.
