How much time do you have before that very first class in your MBA program? Has the countdown to your big return to the classroom begun? Hopefully you have at least a week or two to prepare for this major step in your life, because there are some things you need to take care of before you officially begin the program.

Plan Your Schedule

Look at your class schedule, work schedule, family schedule, and all other obligations that will take up time while you are in school. Come up with a detailed daily schedule that will help you balance out all of these responsibilities. If you have a schedule that includes study time, family time, and even exercise and rest time, you will find it much easier to fit everything in when school starts. Do not wait until classes begin to realize it is hard to balance it all. Plan ahead and you will be more successful as you adjust to this new lifestyle.

Predict Your Setbacks

Make a list of all the things you think might stand in your way as you start your MBA program. Think about small things like a babysitter getting sick so you are stuck with children on class night, as well as larger things like your boss requiring you to go out of town on a business trip when you are supposed to be turning in a project at school. If you can predict the problems that may come up along the way, you can plan out what you will do to solve these problems. If they really do occur, you will not feel as blindsided or frustrated in the moment. You will already have a plan to get over the hurdle and continue on successfully. For major problems, arrange for back up plans now. Do not leave it to the moment a crisis happens.

Explore the Campus

Get out to your school campus and look around. Read the flyers hanging on billboards and the sides of trees. Meet other students in the bookstore and cafe. Take note of the library and other locations that you may need to take advantage of once your MBA program starts. If they have an employment center, stop in to see if they can help you find an internship or part time, entry level position. You never know what resources and opportunities you will find if you take the time to introduce yourself to the campus before class time actually starts.

Reach Out to Others

Make a point to start meeting other students in your MBA program, even if they are further in then you. You might find the program on Facebook or LinkedIn, and start making virtual connections that can lead to resources later in your program and job search. You may also meet others just roaming the campus or attending social events that are being held on and around campus.

You are going to be spending a lot of time on this campus and with these people. You will find this time more enjoyable and rewarding if you reach out and connect with others, take full advantage of all available resources, and work out your schedule so you can focus completely on the MBA program.