MBA students are known for their ambition, discipline and drive to lead in complex and competitive environments.

Among them, graduate student-athletes represent a particularly unique group of individuals who balance the rigorous demands of furthering their education with the commitment and intensity of high-level athletics. For these students, years of training have provided lessons of resilience, time management, teamwork and performing under pressure. The same qualities that fuel athletic success often shape the mindset and leadership potential cultivated in the MBA program.

To better understand the realities of balancing elite athletics with graduate business education at Oklahoma State University, current MBA students who are actively competing in several sports shared their insights.

“In the MBA program, I approach assignments, cases and group projects with that same competitive focus,” Cowgirl softball player Macy Graf said. “Balancing athletics and academics has forced me to master time management, prioritize effectively and stay composed under pressure.”

With demanding schedules and competing priorities, the ability to channel the drive for success in both arenas is no small feat.

“With the distractions of college life and the world all around us, it’s so important for us to stay focused on our greater goals both in the classroom and on the track,” said Annie Molenhouse, a member of OSU’s track and field team.

While many factors encourage students to further their education and time at OSU, athletics has proven to be a powerful opportunity for both the program and its students. This combination allows athletes to continue pursuing excellence while bringing driven, disciplined individuals into the MBA family. Gavin Goodrich of OSU’s cheer team is a prime example.

“Continuing athletics was one of the reasons that led me to the MBA program,” Goodrich said.

Their experiences also reveal the personal qualities that make balancing both worlds possible.

When discussing the most prominent traits that contribute to both areas of success, such as integrity, tenacity, flexibility and confidence, the three qualities were emphasized most: consistency, focus and determination.

“Consistency is what separates short-term motivation from long-term success,” Graf said. “Talent may open doors, but consistency is what sustains performance in both arenas.”

Integrity builds trust in group projects and keeps competition fair on the court. Tenacity overcomes disputes among colleagues or hurdles on the track. Flexibility allows quick adaptation to changes in coursework strategy and game plans on the field. Confidence drives bold ideas in presentations and decisive action on the mats. From classrooms to locker rooms and case studies to championships, the same competitive traits define success.

What is the result of being a student-athlete at this level?

Graf explains that competing while pursuing an advanced degree has reinforced her ability to handle demanding expectations and thrive within them.

Caleb Fish of Cowboy Wrestling agrees.

“I am driven to face adversity and push past my comfort zone to achieve my goals,” he said.

How has this paid off in the real world for Spears Business graduates?

Saara Hakanen, an MBA graduate and former All-Big 12 Conference track and field standout, said the core values she learned on the track and in the classroom drive her in her professional life. She now works as a successful content translator and freelance sports reporter, and applies these attributes to everyday life.

“Being able to pursue my athletic and academic dreams every day for six years showed me the importance of loving what I do; hard work doesn’t feel like work when you’re passionate about it,” Hakanen said.

These insights shared by our very own MBA student-athletes reveal the lasting impact of balancing academic and athletic commitments. At Oklahoma State, the experience is shaping resilient leaders prepared to meet challenges and exceed expectations long after the final bell.

Story By: Raigyn Mayes | raigyn.mayes@okstate.edu