Broad-ly Speaking: Real MBA Stories. Real Outcomes

In our final episode of the year, we sit down with three graduating MBA students from the Class of 2026 to reflect on their journey. From their first days in the program to where they are now, they share honest insights on what challenged them, what shaped them, and what they wish they knew starting out. This conversation is all about growth, lessons learned, and what's next after graduation.  

What really stays with you after an MBA? In this episode, Kwame Brifo reflects on his time at Michigan State and how those experiences translated into his career. From overlooked lessons that later became critical, to unexpected challenges in his first year after graduating, Kwame shares an honest look at the transition from student to professional. He also discusses how his expectations compared...

In this episode, we sit down with first-year MBA student Bianca to talk about what it really takes to move a company from Brazil to the U.S. while pursuing an MBA. She shares the challenges of navigating a new market, balancing academics with entrepreneurship, and adapting to cultural and business differences. We also discuss her transition from practicing law in Brazil to shifting into business a...

In this episode, we sit down with Marla McGraw , Assistant Dean of Career Management at the Palmer Center , to talk about how the center is actively supporting students during a challenging job market. We discuss current hiring realities, career resources available to students, and practical strategies the Palmer Center is using to help students stay competitive and confident.

In this episode, we sit down with Rohit, a first-year MBA student, to recap his experience so far in the program. He reflects on his first semester, sharing what surprised him most, how he adjusted to MBA life, and the key lessons he's learned early on.

This week on Spartan Stories, we sit down with second-year MBA student Pratik Bhattacharjee to break down everything you really need to know about the GMAT/GRE. Pratik shares the study strategies that worked for him, how he approached test-taking, what he wishes he knew before starting, and practical tips for anyone preparing for grad school exams. Whether you're thinking about applying or already...

In this episode of Spartan Stories, we spoke with Connor Lyons, a second-year MBA student who shares his journey from military service to business school. Connor opens up about what it was like to transition from leading in the military to leading in a collaborative MBA environment. He reflects on the skills that carried over, the challenges he faced, and the lessons he's learned along the way. Wh...

In this episode of Spartan Stories , we sit down with second-year MBA student, Chanada Yeginati, to hear how her summer internship with Amazon's Pathways program turned into a full-time career opportunity. Chanada opens up about her experience navigating the internship, the skills she sharpened along the way, and how the MBA program prepared her for success in one of the world's most innovative co...

In this inspiring episode of MBA Spartan Stories , we celebrate Women's History Month by diving into the dynamic balance between pursuing an MBA, building a career, and embracing a life of travel. Our special guest, Kate Irwin, Senior Associate Director of Admissions, joins us to share her journey as a working mother navigating a demanding role that requires frequent travel. Kate opens up about th...

In this episode, we chat with Lori Fischer, Director of the Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation at Michigan State University. Lori shares how the program supports student and alumni entrepreneurs at every stage—from idea to launch and beyond. We discuss key resources, common challenges like funding and mentorship, and how the institute fosters innovation across industries. Plus, yo...

In this episode, we're diving into the impact of affinity groups in the MBA experience. These organizations provide a sense of belonging and mentorship, helping students navigate both personal and professional challenges. Joining us today is Anna Lin, a JD/MBA, who will share her insights on how affinity groups have shaped her journey, supported her in her personal and professional life, and foste...

Not every career path is linear. In this episode, Astha shares her personal experiences of navigating career shifts, overcoming setbacks, and redefining success along the way. From unexpected roadblocks to breakthrough moments, she offers valuable insights on how to stay motivated, embrace change, and ultimately carve out a path that aligns with your true aspirations. If you've ever faced career u...

In the fast-paced world of MBA recruiting, it's easy to focus on landing the next internship or job offer—but what about the bigger picture? In this episode, we sit down with Marla McGraw, Assistant Dean of the MBA Career Center, to discuss the importance of playing the long game in career planning. Marla shares valuable insights on how MBA students can build meaningful relationships, develop a st...

Join Ramy Darwish, a first-year MBA candidate, as he shares his journey of transitioning from a career in B2B logistics to thriving in the dynamic world of business school. In this episode, Ramy opens up about embracing campus life, exploring diverse concentrations, and navigating the challenges and opportunities that come with this transformative experience. From building connections to finding h...

Join Daniel Martinez, a first-year MBA candidate, as he dives into the highs, lows, and everything in between of life inside business school. From late-night study sessions to navigating group projects, networking events, and the balancing act of personal life, this podcast offers an authentic, unfiltered look at the MBA experience. Whether you're considering business school, already enrolled, or...

In this episode, we chat with second-year MBA student Paige Manning, who is concentrating in marketing and making an exciting transition from a healthcare background to the fast-paced world of the Big Three auto industry at Stellantis. Paige shares her summer internship experiences, focusing on high-impact marketing projects, leveraging her unique background, and adapting to a new industry. She pr...

In this episode, we chat with second year MBA student, Christine Corsi, who completed her summer intership at Ecolab. We dive into real world experiences within the finance industry from focusing on high-impact projects and navigating corporate culture to the skills she honed, which led to her receiving a full time offer. She shares insights on her introduction to the finance world and how her rol...

In this episode, we chat with second year MBA student, Anthony Rizzo, who completed his summer intership at Johnson&Johnson. We dive into real world experiences within the HR industry from focusing on high-impact projects and navigating corporate culture, to the skills he honed and challenges he overcame. He shares insights on his introduction to the HR world and how his role is shaping his future...

In this episode, we chat with second year MBA student, Gustavo Dobrovolski Pereira, who is fresh off his summer internship at Bayer. We dive into his real-world experiences, from high-impact projects and navigating corporate culture, to the skills he honed and challenges he overcame. He shares insight on how this role in procurement is shaping his future career path. Tune in for actionable advice,...

In this episode, we gathered insights from a select group of graduating students from the class of 2024, delving into their program experiences and exploring their visions for the future.

Join us for the final episode of the Women in Business series, where Olivia English and Konica Baveja share their inspiring journey to the MBA program. They prove that with perseverance and the right mindset, women can achieve success and make things happen. Through their stories, they demonstrate the power of leadership, the importance of student resource groups, and the value of learning from ch...

In the second episode of the Women in Business Series, we are truly inspired by Alyse Hines, a second-year MBA student. Despite dealing with a chronic disease, she persevered and discovered her passion for Supply Chain Management. Through her faith and support system, she hopes to empower other women to pursue their dreams with determination and perseverance. Alyse's story is a powerful reminder t...

The Women in Business series has returned and is better than ever before! We recently had the privilege of interviewing a remarkable Marketing Professor who has inspired many through her work and hopes to leave behind a great legacy. Join us and hear Dr. Ruvio's advice for women on how to navigate their careers based on her life experiences. From balancing roles, breaking barriers, and defining su...

In this episode, we explore the diverse and dynamic concentration of Human Resources and Strategic Management through the lens of students Bryce and Hayden as they share their unique perspectives. Join us as they share the motivations behind choosing HR as their concentration within MSU's MBA program and the insights gained from their journey. Join the conversation as we delve into the importance...

In this episode, we delve into the real-world experiences of MBA students Mark and Christine as they navigate the field of finance. Their unique perspectives revolve around both conventional and unconventional experiences, and they share their reasons for choosing finance as their concentration. Finance is more than just numbers; it's a way of knowing what your next move will be in the game. It's...