Day in the life of an MBA student

What does a day in the life of a full-time MBA student at Cornell’s Ithaca, NY campus look like? From case competitions and core classes to networking events and trips to the wineries, no two days are alike. But they all share one thing in common: deep engagement and growth. Cornell’s STEM-designated Two-Year MBA program blends academic rigor with career development in a small, close community, giving students the tools and network to lead confidently in a rapidly changing world.

MBA student life in Ithaca is built on collaboration and discovery, creating a learning atmosphere where students feel challenged and supported. Between attending classes and events, participating in group projects, joining student clubs, and exploring the Ithaca campus community, students have countless opportunities to network, learn, and grow.

Why MBA life at Cornell is anything but ordinary

MBA life at Cornell is immersive, collaborative, and highly personalized. The Two-Year MBA experience at our Ithaca campus is distinguished by its tech-forward ecosystem, an interdisciplinary approach to learning, and the close-knit student bonds forged within each cohort. Cornell’s scenic campus merges stunning natural beauty with state-of-the-art learning facilities, while vibrant downtown Ithaca offers opportunities to explore restaurants, museums, nightlife, and nearby Cayuga Lake. And with carefully limited class sizes, every MBA student receives holistic, one-on-one career and academic support.

Dive deeper into the MBA student experience at Cornell including the Core Team Practicum and the Johnson Outdoor Experience (JOE).

Inside MBA student life in Ithaca, NY

From morning crunches in the gym to crunch-time study sessions late at night, the daily life of an MBA student is different for each learner. Through core classes, immersion experiences, team projects, and social events, Cornell MBAs build the habits and friendships that shape their careers. On average, students in full-time MBA programs study 30 to 40 hours per week, balancing coursework with co-curriculars, job prep, and wellness.

But while every student’s routine is unique, all Cornell MBAs share four core experiences:

• Taking on challenging courses
• Collaborating in groups
• Engaging with the local community
• Exploring Cornell’s social scene

For an inside perspective, hear real stories about Cornell MBA student life from three members of the Class of 2026 — Andrew Rossi (MBA ‘26, corporate finance immersion), Ife Bolaji (MBA ‘26, strategy and consulting immersion), and Sahiba Kahai (MBA ‘26, digital technology immersion).

Andrew Rossi, MBA ’26, corporate finance

MORNING: Like many MBA students, Andrew starts his day early — prioritizing movement, breakfast, and a clear head before diving into class.

“During the week, I typically wake up around 7 a.m. If the weather’s nice, I’ll meet up with a few classmates for a morning run around campus or down by Cass Park. Afterward, I’ll make breakfast and get ready for the day before heading to Sage Hall.”

AFTERNOON: Afternoons are when academic intensity peaks — students shift from core classes to immersion tracks, and from learning to leading.

“During my first semester, Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday were mostly spent in core classes like microeconomics, accounting, and marketing, which helped build a strong academic foundation. In the spring, we transitioned into our immersions — mine being corporate finance — alongside electives, all designed to prepare us for a successful internship experience through hands-on learning.

“Between or after classes during recruiting season, I participated in virtual and in-person coffee chats with second-year students and industry professionals, as well as corporate briefings. Once recruiting wrapped up, much of my time shifted toward leadership roles in student organizations. I’m actively involved in Student Council, the Community Impact Club, and the Corporate Leadership Club.”

EVENING: Evenings allow Cornell MBAs to relax, recharge, and reconnect with their classmates — on campus or downtown.

“To end the day, I’ll often grab dinner or drinks with friends at one of the many great spots in Ithaca. And on Thursdays, you can usually find me at Sage Social in the Sage atrium from 4:15 to 5:45 p.m., catching up with classmates and winding down before the weekend.”

WEEKEND: Cornell MBAs make the most of weekends — balancing nature, academics, and social life.

“I try to spend as much time outdoors as possible, whether that means running, hiking, or playing a round of golf. Weekends also offer a great chance to catch up on coursework and collaborate with classmates on group projects. There’s almost always at least one social event as well, whether it’s at a local bar, on campus, or hosted at a classmate’s apartment.”

Ife Bolaji, MBA ’26, strategy and consulting

MORNING: For Ife, the early hours are about calm, connection, and her favorite local pastry spot. Like many MBAs, she values a centered start.

“A typical day for me during the school year starts between 6 and 6:15 a.m. on days I have classes. I begin with prayer, then get ready and stop by Paris Baguette — my favorite pastry shop in Ithaca — for breakfast.” 

AFTERNOON: Class times shift with the semester, but afternoons always revolve around academic focus and managing energy.

“In the fall, my classes ran from 8:40 a.m. to around 2 p.m. I had a lighter schedule in the spring, starting at 11 a.m. and ending by 2:55 p.m., which I preferred because it gave me more time to rest and explore campus.”

EVENING: Evenings for Ife are a blend of independent study, group collaboration, and peaceful movement.

“I usually study alone since I’m easily distracted by noise, but I also enjoy group study sessions, which typically take place in the evenings after classes when everyone is free. I especially love group prep because it gives me an opportunity to hear others’ perspectives — particularly in courses that aren’t my strong suit. I also take walks around campus and go to the gym in the evenings since I’m not a morning person and prefer to exercise later in the day.”

WEEKEND: For Ife, weekends offer rest, community, and time for faith.

“On weekends, I like to slow down a bit — catching up on rest, going to church, and meeting up with friends.” 

Sahiba Kahai, MBA ’26, digital technology

MORNING: Mornings are Sahiba’s time for movement, nutrition, and self-care — a common approach among MBAs looking to maximize energy and clarity.

“I normally wake up around 6 a.m. and use the gym in my apartment building to get a workout in. (I love my Peloton and that my building has them!) Then I get ready and make myself a smoothie and some coffee before heading to class.”

AFTERNOON: Classes and meals are woven tightly into Sahiba’s productive midday rhythm.

“My class schedule varies, but I like to knock out my classes between 10:10 a.m. and 2:40 p.m. I’ll usually fit in lunch during the 30-minute break from 12:55 to 1:25 p.m. by running over to Terrace to grab a salad. Depending on my assignments and the day of the week, I normally head back to my apartment after class to get some work done before a group project or board meeting.” 

EVENING: Evenings are for routine, relaxation, and setting the stage for success.

“After dinner, I will finish up any homework I still have left to do. I also always make it a point to go through my evening routine, which consists of doing my skin care, making a cup of chamomile tea, and reading a novel for 30 minutes before I go to sleep. I’ve found that this helps set me up for success.”

WEEKEND: Sahiba’s weekends bring flexibility for schoolwork, family visits, and getting ahead.

“On the weekends, I usually catch up on homework or try to get ahead for the week where I can. The weekend also gives me a chance to do more with group projects if need be since it’s a time when most people are free.

My hometown is also an hour away from Ithaca, so it can be nice for me to go home to escape the business school bubble and spend time with my family and friends — while also getting some meal prep help from my parents!”

Discover Cornell’s full-time MBA life firsthand

Cornell MBA students lead full, multidimensional lives managing academics, career prep, and community in ways that reflect their goals and values. Whether it’s leading a student club, prepping for consulting interviews with top firms like McKinsey, Bain & Co., Deloitte, or Boston Consulting Group, grabbing a craft brew in downtown Ithaca with your learning team, or enjoying the Ithaca scenery, each day brings new challenges and growth.

In Cornell’s top-ranked MBA program, no two student paths are the same — and no matter where your path leads, our Career Management Center can help you connect with job placements and industry leaders.

Want to see more? Hear directly from students: