In an article in India Today, Nitish Jain (Founder & President of SP Jain Group), shares valuable cultural adaptation tips for international MBA students studying in the US and UK. For many students, an MBA abroad isn’t just about mastering business concepts; it’s an opportunity to navigate new cultural landscapes, which can be a key factor in success.
Key points from the article:
- Avoid limiting yourself to friends from your home country; make an effort to engage with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
- Focus on improving soft skills like public speaking and emotional intelligence.
- Get comfortable with active class participation and discussing ideas with others.
- Be prepared for assignments that may not have a definitive answer, as the emphasis is on your problem-solving approach.
- Recognise the importance of punctuality in the US, as being late can be perceived as disrespectful.
- Professors and peers in both countries welcome respectful debate, and the use of first names is common.
- Engage in extracurricular activities such as events, competitions, and internships to gain practical experience.
- Make time to explore the local culture, visit landmarks, and travel to new places.
- The MBA experience is not just about academics; the personal growth and connections you make are equally important.
Mr Jain underlines that the MBA journey abroad is about much more than just academic achievement; it's an opportunity to broaden your horizons both personally and professionally.
To read the full article, please click here.