Advisor Recommendations

1. GO TO CLASS and PARTICIPATE

We realize that it is often hard to juggle school, work, and family and that there will be times when you may not want to log into a synchronous class session.  The synchronous class session are an important part of Virginia Tech's Online MBA, and probably one reason you chose this program.  It is expected that you will participate in all synchronous class weekends. If you need to miss a session, you are responsible for notifying the faculty in advance and making up any missed work.

2. Follow the Graduate Honor Code

Read and follow the Graduate Honor Code.  The following are NOT reasons to break it:  pressure to be perfect, poor time management, you don’t understand the consequences, and any other reason.

3. Get to know your peers and professors

Part of the reason you chose a synchronous online MBA program was the connections you will make with your fellow students and faculty.  Get to know them.  They will be great allies, study partners, and MBA network when you graduate. 

4. Use your professor's office hours

Your professors are not just here during class.  Use their online office hours and get to know them outside of the classroom.  If you can’t make office hours, contact them to see if you can meet at another time or through another method.

5. Read the emails from the Online MBA Program office

Like you, our days can be crazy as well, but we do our best to keep you up to date with what you need to know to make the best of your experience. Please read our emails.

6.  Keep your professor and the OMBA Program Office aware of unexpected difficulties

Sometimes unexpected issues arise that result in not being able to keep up with your classwork. Communicate with your professor and the program office if you find yourself in this position so that we can determine best next steps and options.

7.  Be aware of falling behind in class

In the Online MBA program, you will complete two or three courses in eight weeks, and four to five courses over a semester. This is an accelerated format and students who are not on top of their tasks and time management skills can fall behind quickly. Ask your faculty for help if you do not understand a concept in class and use their office hours for further explanation.

8.  Form study groups/partners

You will not have formal teams in the Online MBA. Faculty may group students into teams for specific projects related to their classes, but there will not be an overall teaming structure. We do encourage you to form study groups though and help support each other through the program.

9.  Do a test run before class

Make sure you test your equipment at least 30-45 minutes before class time:  https://vteo.vt.edu/tutorials/Zoom-Quick-Start.html. If you find that you are having issues, email your professors immediately.  

10.  Have Fun

It can’t all be about studying. Participate in online networking and social events throughout the semester and remember, we are in this together.