If you are reading this, it means the Eli Broad College of Business (Michigan State University) MBA Class of 2026 has officially completed Semester 1 (of 4) of their studies. I cannot begin to describe the sheer whirlwind of this first semester—it’s been exhilarating, challenging, humbling, and deeply transformative.
From Graduate School to MBA
For me, the MBA has been one of the more difficult undertakings I’ve embarked on, and I say this as someone who has navigated many challenging paths in life. I had been out of full-time education for close to a decade before stepping into this program. My first master’s degree was a part-time program, heavily online, and entirely different in structure, rhythm, and expectations from this in-person, immersive experience.
The adjustment was intense. There’s something about being back in a full-time academic program after years of balancing professional life and entrepreneurial ventures that leaves you questioning if your brain can still hold as much information as it used to. It’s not just the academic rigor—it’s the networking, the fast-paced schedule, the case competitions, and the ongoing balance of personal goals with professional ambitions. Each day felt like a steep learning curve, but with every curve came growth.
Integrating into U.S. Academia
Adjusting to the U.S. academic system also took its toll. It was an entirely new environment for me, and as someone who thrives on structure and clarity, there were moments where the unfamiliarity left me weak in the knees. For instance, the grading system, the way class participation is weighted, and the collaborative culture of group projects were all new. I had to unlearn certain habits from my previous education systems and relearn how to thrive in this one.
The experience wasn’t just about learning finance, supply chain, and marketing. It was about growing as a human. There were moments of self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and mental exhaustion. But there were also moments of joy, camaraderie, and achievement that reminded me why I chose this path.
Why the MBA, Not a PhD?
I like to think I landed on the MBA track by chance because, in Malawi and much of Africa, the more common academic trajectory is to pursue a PhD. For years, I wrestled with this decision. A PhD offers prestige, a deeper dive into a specialized field, and for many Africans, it’s the natural next step if you’re academically inclined. I’ve had mentors and peers gently push me toward it, emphasizing the doors it opens in academia and beyond.
But here’s the thing—while a PhD equips you with unparalleled expertise in a specific area, I realized that what I needed wasn’t depth but breadth. I needed to sharpen my leadership, management, and decision-making skills. I needed to build a toolkit that would help me navigate not just one industry or challenge but a wide spectrum of opportunities in business, entrepreneurship, and development. And that’s where the MBA stood out.
The Case for More Africans in MBA Programs
Africa, with its burgeoning youth population and untapped potential, needs leaders who can think broadly, connect the dots across industries, and create scalable solutions. An MBA is uniquely positioned to provide this. It combines rigorous academic training with practical, real-world applications, teaching you not only to analyze problems but to implement solutions at scale.
In many ways, I see the MBA as the degree of the future for African professionals. It encourages innovation, collaboration, and strategic thinking—qualities that are critical for driving change on the continent. Yet, few Africans pursue this route. Cultural norms, limited access to funding, and a lack of awareness about what an MBA offers often steer us toward more traditional paths like PhDs. And while there’s absolutely value in academic research and expertise, I believe Africa’s next wave of transformation will come from leaders who can build businesses, run organizations, and execute ideas that drive growth.
For me, the decision to pursue an MBA instead of a PhD wasn’t easy. I had to break away from societal expectations and choose the path that felt right for me—not necessarily the path that felt safer or more celebrated. But now that I’ve made the leap, I can confidently say it was the right choice.
Reflections on Semester 1
The first semester has been a rollercoaster. From grappling with financial formulas to breaking down supply chain strategies, I’ve learned so much in such a short span of time. But beyond the academic rigor, this experience has been about pushing myself out of my comfort zone and rediscovering parts of myself I didn’t know I had lost.
I’ve had to relearn how to be analytical after years of focusing on big-picture leadership. My classes in finance challenged me to dive into the details, to slow down and really think through the numbers. My supply chain management course reminded me of the complexity and beauty of global systems and how much opportunity exists for innovation in this space.
And then there were the people—my classmates, who are some of the most brilliant, driven, and inspiring individuals I’ve ever met. They’ve challenged me to think differently, helped me see problems from new angles, and supported me on the days when I felt like I couldn’t keep up.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next?
As I move into the next semester, I feel a renewed sense of purpose. This MBA isn’t just about me—it’s about the impact I hope to create. I want to use what I’m learning to scale my businesses, support more entrepreneurs through the Ntha Foundation (Kwathu Kollective), and contribute to Africa’s growth story in meaningful ways.
To my fellow Africans who are considering further education: don’t overlook the MBA. It’s not just a degree—it’s a journey that will challenge you, stretch you, and equip you with the tools you need to lead in a rapidly changing world.
To those who have been part of my journey so far—thank you. Your encouragement, support, and belief in me have made all the difference. I am EXCITED to be spending my winter break reflecting on my personal life, and revitalizing the work of my companies. I wish you more success in the final stretch of this year, and hope to see you on the other side!
CONNECT WITH NTHANDA ONLINE:
About the Author
