Meet our Kelley Direct Ambassadors and find out what it’s like to be in an online MBA program that doesn’t feel like one

Why did you choose Kelley Direct for your online MBA?

When I started exploring MBA programs, I knew I wanted something that offered more than just convenience. I was looking for a program with substance, one that combined top-tier academics with real-world relevance and a strong sense of community. This is why Kelley Direct stood out to me. On top of being the number one online program, the curriculum is challenging, the faculty is deeply engaged, and the level of support is unmatched. I wanted to invest in a program that would truly elevate my career, expand my perspective, and connect me with a lasting, valuable network, and Kelley checked every box.

What advice do you have for someone considering an online MBA program? What should they look for?

My biggest piece of advice is to really think about what you want to get out of your experience before you make a decision. Online programs vary a lot, so it’s important to know exactly what kind of things mean the most to you. Look beyond rankings and ask yourself the important questions: Will I have access to professors and career services? Is there a strong sense of community? Will the program challenge me, but also fit into my life? For me, Kelley Direct stood out because it offered all of that.

How would you describe the Kelley Direct student community?

What makes the Kelley Direct community special is how genuinely welcoming and inclusive it is. Whether you’re a woman navigating the business world, part of the LGBTQ+ community, a parent, or even a proud pet owner, you’ll find people who just get you. From formal networking groups to casual WhatsApp chats—where conversations range from career and class selection advice to baby and dog photos—Kelley Direct is more than just an academic program. It’s a place where real relationships form, and everyone brings something meaningful to the table.

How do you balance going to school, and working full time, and anything else (parenting, hobbies, etc.)?

I won’t sugarcoat it—balancing everything can definitely be a challenge. I work full-time, I’m raising a wonderful 3-year-old, and when you add school and trying to maintain a social life, it can feel like a lot. What’s helped me most is creating a structure that works for my schedule and leaning on the Kelley Direct community when I need support. Staying organized, building connections, and giving yourself some grace along the way makes all the difference. It’s not easy, but it’s absolutely worth it.

Why did you choose Kelley Direct for your online MBA?

I chose Kelley Direct for my online MBA because it offers the flexibility I need to advance my career without having to put it on hold. As someone who needs to relocate yearly for work, the ability to access a top-tier program from anywhere was crucial. Kelley Direct's number one ranking year after year made me confident that I was joining a prestigious program that would teach me the skills I need to be my best personally and professionally. Also, Indiana University and Kelley are renowned communities of driven, like-minded individuals that I wanted to be a part of.

What advice do you have for someone considering an online MBA program? What should they look for?

My biggest pieces of advice that I have for someone considering an online MBA program are to align everyone in your life with the mission and to get involved. Ensuring that everyone in your life—your family, partner, children, friends, boss, coworkers—is aware that you are furthering your education will allow everyone to help you balance schoolwork with the rest of life. Also, being involved is part of the experience, and part of what makes IU and Kelley Direct so special. With everyone being located in different areas, being active and involved in classes, clubs, and activities is essential to networking, making friends, and maximizing your Kelley Direct experience.

How would you describe the Kelley Direct student community?

The Kelley Direct student community is world class, and one that I am extremely proud and grateful to be a part of. Everyone in the Kelley Direct student community is smart, goal-oriented, and motivated to be their best.

How do you balance going to school, and working full time, and anything else (parenting, hobbies, etc.)?

Balancing going to school, working full time, and everything else is challenging but achievable. Making a conscious effort to manage your time and your calendar is crucial. Allocating the time for classes, homework, studying, and involvement will allow you to have the necessary time and attention to be successful at Kelley. Keeping everyone in your life updated with your class schedule and necessity for time to do school is also key.

Why did you choose Kelley Direct for your online MBA?

Kelley’s reputation and ranking were definitely the initial allure for me to the program. Beyond that, what stood out in comparison to the competition was flexibility in live/offline content and elective coursework. These attributes are really unique and allow for you to truly “choose your own (MBA) adventure” above and beyond other programs. Additionally, the in-person opportunities to connect with students and professors throughout the experience were a game changer and really distinctive from other programs. Finally, the faculty resources are unparalleled. I have regular meetings with my academic advising team to review my courses, field questions on maximizing my MBA, and get objective feedback on managing workplace scenarios as I look to grow in my current role.

What advice do you have for someone considering an online MBA program? What should they look for?

Definitely go into the process knowing why you want an MBA now and what you hope to achieve as an outcome of this commitment. It helps to not only assist you in discussions during the application process, but also helps to garner support from your family and co-workers as they seek to understand for themselves. To this end, having some personal “cheerleaders” among your family, friends, and/or co-workers who you can depend on as outlets for sharing stories and takeaways during your MBA journey boosts mental health and confidence.

How would you describe the Kelley Direct student community?

Following my Kelley On Campus experience (which was an outstanding kickoff to my MBA journey), I have been really fortunate to have multiple “study buddy” group texts and Zoom session partners to keep engaged, motivated, and excited about progress we are making during our time at Kelley. I have tremendous respect for my classmates, and we really lift each other up each week to stay on top of our coursework together. Beyond the classroom, the affiliate groups such as KD Pride have also been an awesome resource for building camaraderie and growing my professional network during my time at Kelley. There really are infinite outlets to learn from your classmates, and I will gladly call many of them my friends during and well after this experience.

How do you balance going to school, and working full time, and anything else (parenting, hobbies, etc.)?

First, trust the process. Your Kelley professors have been through this before and are always looking out for you. They want you to be successful in their course and the program at large. The curriculum between courses is balanced so that you can toggle between major deliverables for courses without getting overwhelmed, if you follow the advice of your professors. Personally, I set up a white board in my home office to outline what I want and need to achieve on a daily basis every week to help keep me organized and on task. Finally, I will say again how critical it is that you communicate clearly and consistently with your spouse, family, and/or friends what you need to be successful in terms of personal time to manage your MBA deliverables. If you are open and honest about what you need to get done so others can manage their expectations and help take care of your kids, pets, etc. while you need to study, that helps tremendously as you transition to being a student once again.