Business school is often described as a whirlwind — of classes, case studies, group projects, networking events, and late-night pitch rehearsals. It’s intense, inspiring, and, at times, overwhelming. Amid all this, one thing that can truly make a difference — not just to survive, but to thrive — is mentorship.
Whether you’re just starting out or halfway through your MBA journey, having a mentor (or a few!) can be one of the most valuable parts of your experience. Having a mentor in graduate school is more than a bonus — it’s often a necessity. Mentors can play a pivotal role in shaping your academic success, professional direction, and emotional resilience. They offer experience, perspective, and encouragement at moments when you might need it most.
1. Guidance When You Need It Most
Business school throws a lot at you. Career choices, internship applications, club leadership roles — and it all happens fast. A mentor who’s been through it can offer perspective, help you weigh options, and steer you away from avoidable mistakes. They don’t give you a roadmap — they help you build your own.
2. A Sounding Board for Academic and Career Goals
Graduate students often find themselves caught between academic demands and career uncertainty. Mentors can help bridge that gap. They can offer insights into industries, share personal experiences, and even connect you with professional networks.
Whether your mentor is a faculty member, an alum, or a senior student, their ability to contextualize your aspirations can help you move forward with more intention. They can also help you prepare for job interviews, review your applications, or guide you through publishing your first paper — all while keeping you grounded in your bigger picture.
3. Learning Beyond the Classroom
Business school is more than academics — it’s about developing leadership, communication, resilience. Mentors model these qualities and share lessons that textbooks don’t cover. Their stories can inspire you to lead with authenticity and adapt with grace.
4. Emotional Support and Motivation
Graduate school can be isolating. Imposter syndrome, burnout, and self-doubt are common companions. A mentor isn’t just there to offer academic advice — they’re someone who can say, “I’ve been there, and it gets better.”
The emotional reassurance and validation that a mentor provides can make a world of difference. Even short check-ins can re-energize your motivation and help you regain perspective.
5. Giving Back, Too
Mentorship is a two-way street. Even as a mentee, you bring fresh ideas and energy to the table. And one of the most rewarding parts of the MBA journey? Becoming a mentor yourself. Sharing what you’ve learned helps you grow, reflect, and contribute to the cycle of support that makes the Business school community so powerful.
In business school, success isn’t just about what you know — it’s also about who walks with you on the journey. Mentors don’t have all the answers, but they ask the right questions, offer honest feedback, and remind you that you’re not alone.
So reach out. Be curious. Listen and learn. And when the time comes, pay it forward.
About the Author
Akshita Dhaka holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Ansal University, Gurgaon, India. She has built a diverse career in marketing and public relations, working with renowned organizations such as American Express and the University of British Columbia. Currently, she is pursuing her MBA at the Beedie School of Business, Simon Fraser University, where she is also an active member of the Beedie community.