Favorite Traditions & Events At Top Business Schools

“The Annual Finger Lakes Wine Tour is my favorite Simon event and reflects the Simon’s commitment to community engagement, both within the University and across the greater Rochester area. Each year, Simon Uncorked, our wine club, organizes a trip to the vineyards in the Finger Lakes, a region renowned for its Rieslings and one of the premier wine-producing areas on the East Coast. Visiting esteemed vineyards such as Dr. Konstantin Frank and Point of the Bluff, we not only enjoy the scenic beauty of New York State but also taste some of the world’s finest Rieslings. This event offers a unique opportunity to learn about the wine production and distribution processes, but also showcasing our local gem to the Simon community.”
Chris Park, University of Rochester (Simon)

“My favorite Cox tradition is our Annual Crawfish Boil. I’m a big believer in the power of food to bring people together, and the crawfish boil really takes this to the next level. Gathered intimately around tables piled high with spicy crawfish, everyone gets their hands dirty peeling “mudbugs” and washes them down with cold beer as live country music plays in the background. My favorite part of this event is seeing my peers from other countries and regions experience this unique cultural tradition for the first time.”
Jack Reagor, Southern Methodist University (Cox)

“My favorite MBA event at SMU Cox was the Business Leadership Center’s (BLC) Disney Institute program. This opportunity provided invaluable insights into leadership, organizational culture, and customer service, all within the immersive, innovative, and engaging environment of Disney World.

The program’s focus on designing and sustaining a high-performing organizational culture resonated deeply with me. Through interactive workshops, behind-the-scenes tours, and discussions with Disney leaders, I gained a deeper understanding of how a strong culture can drive engagement, collaboration, and commitment. The Disney Institute emphasizes a commitment to excellence in service, highlighting the importance of exceeding customer expectations and creating memorable experiences. Witnessing firsthand how Disney operationalizes its values and translates them into exceptional customer service was truly inspiring. This immersive event, spanning several days in Orlando, provides a unique blend of theoretical learning and practical application. The opportunity to observe Disney’s operations both onstage and backstage offered a comprehensive understanding of the intricate workings behind the magic.

The BLC’s annual Disney Institute program reflects SMU Cox’s commitment to providing students with transformative learning experiences that extend beyond the traditional classroom. It exemplifies the school’s dedication to fostering leadership development and cultivating a pursuit of excellence in all endeavors.”
Caitly Reynoso, Southern Methodist University (Cox)

“At the Haslam College of Business, the MBA has a unique way of celebrating the acceptance of an internship or full-time role – Ringing a Gong! It was an incredibly fun way to celebrate each student’s success and cheer each other on as we stepped into new opportunities. To me, the gong also had a symbolic component. It truly demonstrated the culture of support fostered within the school and program. No one turned down the chance to celebrate someone else’s success, so we all knew we had the support of the school and each other. My classmates cheered for one another, even when someone earned a role that another applied for. We weren’t in competition with each other, but we were on the same team. To me, that’s the importance of the gong.”
Emma (Em) Strieter, University of Tennessee (Streiter)

“One of my favorite events at McCombs is International Night, held every November. With about 30% of the student body coming from over 30 countries, McCombs is a truly global community, and this event is a celebration of that diversity. While not every country is represented with a booth, those that do participate showcase their culture, traditions, and local products, turning the venue into a vibrant, multicultural experience. What makes International Night special isn’t just the international students, it’s how the entire McCombs community comes together. Faculty, classmates from the U.S., and even Cohort 5—the nickname for students’ families and partners—join in the celebration. One thing I’ve always appreciated about McCombs is how welcoming it is to families and partners, not just students. Many events, including International Night, embrace this spirit, making it clear that McCombs values the people who matter most to us. This inclusivity and global mindset are what make McCombs unique. International Night is more than just a cultural showcase—it’s a reflection of the tight-knit, open, and globally connected community that defines the McCombs experience.”
Hiro Yoguchi, University of Texas (McCombs)

“My favorite MBA tradition is The Aggie Ring Dunk, where Aggies graduating dunk their rings into a pitcher of their preferred beverage and race to finish drinking it and claim their ring. It is a unique and heartwarming way to celebrate their achievement and form a core memory with peers; sort of an informal way to join the Aggie Network.”
Gaurav Bhattacharya, Texas A&M University (Mays)

“My favorite MBA tradition is the Chalkboard in the MBA Lounge. Every month, the admin team updates it with a new seasonal drawing and an engaging question or activity. It’s a small tradition, but it adds a sense of fun and community to the program.

For Thanksgiving, they had a ‘This or That’ poll, for Christmas, a naughty and nice list we could fill out, and for Valentine’s Day, red hearts where we could write the names of people we love. These little touches make the lounge feel more than just a study space—it’s a place where students can connect, take a break, and feel part of something bigger.

This tradition reflects what I appreciate most about JSOM’s MBA program—the effort to build a strong, supportive community. The admin team doesn’t just run the program; they create an environment where students feel included and engaged, even in the smallest ways.”
Fatemeh Yazdiananari, University of Texas at Dallas (Jindal)

“My favourite MBA tradition was the initial Know-Your-Group Activity during orientation. This event wasn’t just an icebreaker; it was a carefully designed opportunity to form meaningful connections that would last well beyond our first week. From the moment we were assigned to our academic groups, we were encouraged to share our backgrounds, aspirations, and even a few personal quirks. The dynamic mix of diverse perspectives and shared goals set the tone for the collaborative spirit that defined our entire MBA journey.

I vividly remember the energy and excitement in the room as we worked together on creative challenges and engaging discussions. It wasn’t merely about learning each other’s names—it was about building trust, establishing a support network, and laying the groundwork for future collaborations. The activity fostered a sense of camaraderie that transformed strangers into friends, enabling us to navigate the rigorous academic environment with a built-in community of peers who genuinely cared about one another’s success.

The memories forged during that first group activity have become some of my most cherished experiences from business school. They remind me that the relationships we build in an academic setting can profoundly influence our personal growth and professional trajectories. This tradition was a powerful reminder that, while the coursework was demanding, the true value of the MBA experience lay in the connections and lasting friendships that emerged from those early interactions.”
Bidisha Sarkar, University of Toronto (Rotman)

“HaasVegas. Every year in early September, over 300 Haasies descend on Las Vegas for a weekend to engage in the most awesome networking experience they’ve ever had. As the first of the four big Haas Treks (in addition to Haasemite, a Yosemite National Park Camping Weekend; TaHaaski, a Palisades Tahoe Ski Weekend; and HaasBoats, a Lake Shasta Boating Weekend), HaasVegas is the perfect celebration and icebreaker for first years and an amazing way to catch up after the summer for second years. As the lead planner, I wanted to make sure it was an experience for the ages, and I’m forever thankful that the team shared that vision.”
Julian Watson, UC Berkeley (Haas)

“Glitter. Wigs. Makeup. Illegal dance practices in classrooms. It’s Haas Drag Race: the annual Q@Haas (LGBTQ+ affinity club) fundraiser inspired by RuPaul’s hit competition. Each of the eight cohorts between the first and second-year classes competes against each other in a lip sync production, complete with full drag, choreography, sound mixing and comedy in a sold-out local bar. While this event could easily be a favorite based purely on how fun it is, the event – and weeks of buildup – hold special meaning for many members of the LGBTQ+ community. It is an opportunity for the entire school to experience and express support for queer culture and lives.

I infamously wrote one of my admissions essays, What Makes You Feel Most Alive?, about my experience going to gay clubs as someone raised in a conservative, religious household. I love Haas Drag Race because it offers this specific feeling of aliveness—rather, a gratitude for living—to so many who have not experienced anything like it. I think this tradition says a few things about Haas:

1) We will continue to be the brightest rainbow beacon in the MBA community (19% of our 1Y class…).

2) Haasies show up for one another in celebration of diversity and inclusion.

3) We’re competitive, but only over the things that truly matter.”
Ryan Jewe, UC Berkeley (Haas)

“Ski Trips are a huge tradition at Anderson, and they really highlight one of the best parts of living in California—the ability to go from sunny beaches to snowy mountains in just a few hours. Every winter, the Outdoor Adventure Club organizes a big ski trip, bringing Anderson students together for a weekend of fun in the snow.

Last winter, I joined the trip to Mammoth with over 100 classmates, and it was easily one of the best experiences of my MBA. We spent the days snowboarding, the evenings bowling, and the nights celebrating together. It was the perfect mix of adventure and bonding, and it reminded me how special the Anderson community is!”
Jae Hyoung Kim, UCLA (Anderson)

“My favorite MBA tradition at Anderson is Andernoons, a weekly gathering of the Anderson community every Thursday afternoon. All graduate programs, faculty, and staff are invited, and everyone is welcome to bring their families, including significant others, pets, or children. It’s a casual, welcoming environment where we can catch up with classmates we haven’t seen in a while and bond as a community. Each week, a different group sponsors the event and shares something unique, whether it’s performance, food, or information. Andernoons reflects Anderson’s commitment to community—after all, business is about relationships. We’re building our community now to grow with us throughout our careers.”
Michelle Hernandez, UCLA (Anderson)

“One of my most memorable MBA experiences at the Marshall School of Business was the PRIME Global Immersion Trip. It was more than just a course; it was a real-world opportunity to apply everything we’d learned in the classroom to an international business context. I collaborated with classmates to solve real challenges faced by a company abroad, which pushed me to think strategically across cultures, industries, and markets. What I loved most was how PRIME reflected Marshall’s commitment to experiential learning and global readiness. It reinforced that Marshall isn’t just preparing students to lead locally, it is shaping us into adaptable, globally minded business leaders.”
Adetokunbo Kosile-Palmer, USC (Marshall)

“A favorite opportunity is the Darden Worldwide Courses (DWCs). These global scholarships are awarded to each student to give the opportunity to take a class abroad for a week. I loved it so much, I opted to do two – the first to Argentina and the second to Vietnam. These weeks studying abroad allow students to immerse themselves in different cultures while exploring global business practices. I loved traveling with classmates and broadening my perspectives on different countries’ business practices and key issues.”
Amanda Golden, University of Virginia (Darden)

“One of my favorite traditions at Darden is the 100 Case Party — a well-earned celebration marking a significant milestone in the MBA journey.

By this point, we’ve tackled 100 cases, debated countless business problems, and survived the rigor of the case method. It’s a moment of reflection, camaraderie, and an excuse to let loose. The energy at the party is electric — classmates who were once strangers now feel like family, bonded by late-night cold calls, intense discussions, and the shared grind of our first semester.

More than just a celebration, the 100 Case Party reminds me of why I chose Darden. The case method is tough but pushes us to think critically, challenge assumptions, and collaborate under pressure. Reaching this milestone means we’ve not only survived but thrived.”
Anuoluwapo Rogers, University of Virginia (Darden)

“My favorite MBA tradition, hands down, is the themed TGs (short for Thank God It’s Friday!)—a student-led celebration held a few times each quarter. These events bring the entire MBA community together to unwind, celebrate, and embrace our diverse backgrounds. These include Diwali, Holi, Lunar New Year, Halloween, Christmas, Black History Month, Welcome Weekend, and the Latin American Carnival. Each TG is packed with student performances, contests, food, drinks, and, of course, an open dance floor and karaoke mic. Beyond just being fun, TGs reflect Foster’s tight-knit, inclusive culture, where we celebrate each other’s traditions and truly get to know one another.”
Chirag Chinmay, University of Washington (Foster)

“As I initially anticipated, my favorite Olin experience was the Global Immersion. Traveling to Washington DC, Barcelona, and Singapore was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn about the intricacies of the global marketplace by immersing ourselves in different cultures. I still fondly remember walking the streets of the Gothic Quarter in search of the perfect sport to expand Strange Donuts to in Barcelona and touring the Emerson factory in Singapore, the “gateway to the East.” These experiences both deepened my understanding of international business and allowed me to form lasting bonds with my cohort.

This program reflects Olin’s strong emphasis on developing a global mindset for future success. Olin recognizes that business does not happen in a vacuum; rather, to be well-rounded and impactful leaders, we must engage with new contexts and cultures. The global experience reflected the importance of adaptability, cultural awareness, and strategic thinking in an increasingly interconnected world.”
Danielle Sarraf, Washington University (Olin)

“My favorite MBA tradition at Wharton is our Storytelling Slams – intimate events where students prepare and share raw, deeply personal stories on stage in a room full of their peers. No phones, no judgment – just real moments of vulnerability. I’ve heard veterans recount experiences on the battlefield, men and women open up about grief and resilience, and friends share defining moments that we’d never hear in day-to-day conversation. It’s special because you can’t easily simulate the feel of a slam in real, non-MBA life.

Wharton is often described as a social school, and the slams embody that in its purest form. It’s not just that people here like to socialize or network – they value real human connection. Every business school has its defining qualities and, to me, our Storytelling Slams exemplify the very best of Wharton. Because sharing in the most intimate pieces of each other’s lives is special; it’s the best of humanity. We come to business school for our careers, but the people make it what it is. (We even have a special Faculty Slam to round out the year – just to reiterate how this tradition is across students and faculty!) In these moments, where we strip away the cases and the credentials and just share who we are, we’re reminded why everyone here is so special – and how lucky we are to have this community for life.”
Simi Shah, Wharton School

“The Wharton Dance Studio Showcase last year was definitely a highlight of my MBA experience. I participated as a dancer—in the bell-dancing performance, no less, which was completely new to me! It was quite the learning curve, but the energy of my fellow dancers and choreographers leading up to the show kept me motivated. On the day of the event, seeing hundreds of students come together to perform everything from traditional Chinese dance to street style (all choreographed and led by my peers) was incredible. It’s the perfect reflection of what the MBA is all about: stepping out of your comfort zone, trying new things, and supporting each other. While I won’t be dancing this year, I’m excited to (loudly) cheer on my friends who are choreographing and performing—I know they’ll crush it!”
Mallika Patkar, Wharton School

“Every Thursday night all of the first- and second-year MBAs would get together for TAPS (Thursdays After Professional Studies) to unwind and network. We generally had a great turnout and a great time. I looked forward to this day every week because there were always more people to get to know and connections to deepen. Creating a close network of real friends is a fundamental part of an MBA program and TAPS was integral to making that happen.”
Aylin Golaszewski, Wisconsin Business School

“My favorite MBA events have been the Annual Auction Night and Star Search, SOM’s annual talent show. Both raise funds for Yale SOM’s Internship Fund, which supports students pursuing social impact summer internships in nonprofits, the public sector, or government.

Beyond being lively and fun—bringing the community together and showcasing our classmates’ incredible (and sometimes hidden) talents—these events embody the ethos of Yale SOM: a commitment to careers that drive impact at the intersection of business and society.”
Nico Pedreira, Yale School of Management

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