How rigorous is business school, and what should I expect?

Hey everyone, as I start narrowing down my college list, I’ve been really thinking about majoring in business. But I'm not entirely sure what that entails. What’s the day-to-day like in business school? How competitive are the classes, and what sort of internships or extracurriculars should I be aiming for to really stand out in my applications?

The rigor of business school can vary based on the institution, but generally speaking, it's rather challenging. You can expect a mix of coursework that emphasizes both qualitative and quantitative skills, such as marketing, accounting, finance, and management.

Experiential learning through case studies, group projects, and presentations is common, and there will be a significant focus on team collaboration. Competition varies by school, but business programs can be competitive, especially at top institutions.

Internships are particularly valuable in business studies, as they offer you real-world experience and networking opportunities. Ideally, you should pursue internships related to the area of business you're most interested in, whether that's finance, marketing, or another specialty.

Extracurriculars can also play a significant role; look for activities that allow you to demonstrate leadership skills, such as student government, or join clubs related to business, like a school's finance club or a business strategy group. Engaging in business case competitions can also be a valuable experience that offers a taste of analyzing and presenting business solutions under pressure.

Ultimately, to stand out in applications, look for opportunities that demonstrate your passion for business and your proactive nature in seeking out real-world applications of what you're learning in the classroom. For example, if you have a particular interest in entrepreneurship, starting a small business or a related club at your school can provide a compelling narrative for your application.