What’s the biggest surprise you’ve had from your MBA experience so far?

I am most surprised by how awesome my classmates are. When I was applying to bschool, I was very concerned about being surrounded by a bunch of Type A go-getters who had the uncanny ability to take douchebaggery to a new level. I was a Marine enlisted grunt (0331 - guns up!) and was not interested in being surrounded by blue falcons and individuals. At Darden, I can honestly say that the stereotypical Type A MBA student is not here. I characterize Darden students as Type A-; all of the positive aspects of being Type A, but none to little of the arrogance and self-centeredness which you might expect.

I love how my classmates are team players and very supportive of not only me, but each other. It takes time to get spun up on the business lingo, concepts, and excel, and they have been there every step of the way. I thought I had a good idea of this when I visited Darden, but I continue to be amazed now that I am living it day to day. For example, there is no hesitation when I ask for help with a case from a peer. Not only do the notes or spreadsheets end up in my inbox, but then there's a generous offer to spend precious time to discuss it with me so that I understand. I did not expect such a level of commitment between students to one another when I came to school. I honestly thought it'd be much more similar to a dog-eat-dog world (as business is often characterized) than something which almost resembles a co-op.

Please understand that individual experiences may vary and that I am making generalizations as a result of my experiences. I think a lot of military guys feel a slight disconnect with civilian society, as I did, and an immersion into an MBA program can be daunting, especially since we all have pre-conceived notions of what MBA candidates are like. I'm relieved that I have found a place with such a strong sense of community to help bridge that gap and that my suspicions and expectations have been proven completely wrong.

Branch: USMC
MBA: Darden (University of Virginia)
Year: 2013
Industry: Retail