Ultimate Human Test: Balancing MBA Degree and Work

The reality of balancing MBA and work for Blake soon evolved into a test of human endurance. After starting his programme, he had to place his studies temporarily on hold in pursuance of his admission as an attorney. This meant he had to manage a high-demand, 08.00 to 23.00 work schedule as a candidate attorney, while studying.

The pressure peaked during one infamous week. Blake was required to write his final board exams (to become admitted as an attorney) on the Monday, followed by his Milpark MBA exams on the Wednesday. To add to the difficulty, his employer declined his study leave, pushing him to the absolute limit. "I almost had a breakdown," Blake recalls, explaining the intensity of the simultaneous deadlines. He recalls his usually success-driven father saying, "Whatever happens, happens, just go out there and do your best.”

Blake attributes his success to his wife, whose unwavering support was instrumental throughout his journey. She would often stay up with him late into the night, continually reminding him of his long-term goals and helping him remain focused and disciplined. He remains deeply grateful for her encouragement and steadfast belief in him.

This support structure was essential, helping him push through the most demanding professional and personal period of his life.

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The demanding reality of his articles meant Blake could not rely on ‘traditional’ study methods. With his mind spent by the evening, he knew he needed to make a plan. He remembers, "I would read two paragraphs and fall asleep." To successfully begin balancing MBA and work, he had to find a way to integrate study hours into his very busy schedule.

The answer was simple, yet remarkably effective, the two-hour rule. He started with an early morning study block. "I’ll always wake up two hours earlier," he explains, "I’ll wake up at 04:00 and study for two hours and get ready for work at 06:00." At this hour, the world was "just quiet," "everyone is asleep," and "it’s extremely calm."

This consistent morning diligence, combined with many hours worked on the weekend, allowed him to maintain his high performance. This resilience was aided by the professional work ethic he had acquired as a candidate attorney, where his "body adjusted to sleeping less" and constantly meeting high-stakes deadlines. His dedication to making time in a busy schedule helped him successfully navigate the challenge of his MBA degree, his work commitments, and the rest of life.

Blake entered the MBA with a purely legal background, admitting he "hated maths in school." Yet, the Milpark MBA helped to reshape his career trajectory. He is now a Financial Consultant at a well-known investment firm, a role he credits entirely to the programme.

The shift was inspired by one module: Management Accounting. Blake was not required to become an accountant, but to be able to "interpret financial statements and... minimise losses or maximise profits." This practical focus is the hallmark of Milpark’s educational philosophy. "It's not a regurgitating exercise or a parrot learning exercise," he states.

The MBA also developed important soft skills, such as Emotional Intelligence (EQ) and conflict resolution. Blake notes that he was able to maintain composure and respond with kindness, even when dealing with difficult employers. These operational skills and the ability to adapt allowed him to succeed in any environment, whether in finance, sales, operations, or legal.

Read how Milpark Education Transformed Lunga Mfene’s Career

Drawing on his entrepreneurial family background, Blake uses this mindset to give himself a competitive advantage in any role he works in. "I understand how the employer is thinking," Blake notes, explaining that he can look at company finances, organisational strategies, and trajectory, allowing him to position himself strategically for promotions.

This ability to think like an owner is a direct result of the operational skills learned in the programme. Companies appreciate individuals who demonstrate care for the business, whether through reducing operational costs like printing and wastage or proactively seeking efficiencies.

Milpark Education’s Immersive Online Learning (IO Learning) model played an important part in Blake’s success, but it was the human support structure that proved truly invaluable. Blake, a self-described "unique case" who faced multiple crises during his studies, required special consideration.

Blake Hamilton’s story is a profound demonstration of what can be achieved with the right mindset and support structure. He credits not only his academic support but also the backing and belief of his parents and wife as the foundation that allowed him to push through the toughest times.

"Was it not for that support, I wouldn't be where I am today," he states. He also recalls instances where Milpark’s administrative staff went above and beyond, assisting with deadline extensions, uploads, and the like. He fondly remembers his dissertation supervisor, Dr. Hennie Scheepers, as being a great source of inspiration.

"You will never, ever have enough time. The right time is now," Blake urges aspiring students to embrace the challenge of studying and working. The MBA degree has equipped him with the skills to be a "plug and play" professional, ensuring job stability and opening up senior managerial opportunities. As he plans to climb the corporate ladder, his experience of balancing MBA and work will be put to full use.

Think you can’t balance it all? Milpark’s MBA degree proves you can. Apply now and discover how.