Online MBA programs are booming, but how do students bond when face-to-face meetings are few and far between? Surprisingly, the answer lies in thinking beyond the screen, with creative approaches fostering connections that transcend typical Zoom or Microsoft Teams meetings.
Here's how students and faculty are changing virtual networking and community-building — plus some tips to inspire your own journey.
At Durham University Business School, professor Mariann Hardey encourages students to form digital book clubs to discuss business-related reads.
“Students co-create discussion points that extend beyond the curriculum,” she says. “These gatherings foster deeper connections and stimulate fresh ideas.”
Add Fun to Create Contacts
Another unexpected hit? Online gaming nights. “We have an eSports division at Durham,” Hardey explains.
“These events create a relaxed atmosphere where students can unwind and build rapport.” It’s networking with a joystick in hand.
Hardey also hosts weekly digital coffee breaks. “We talk about everything — learning, work, family,” she shares. “Many students are juggling full-time jobs and family life, so there’s a lot of shared ground and advice exchanged.”
So, whether it’s sharing book reviews or battling it out in a virtual game, the point is to look for ways to inject fun into your networking efforts. The more relaxed the environment, the stronger the connections.
In addition to group activities, Hardey has introduced reverse mentorship programs. This is when junior students are paired with senior ones, allowing both to grow. “Senior students reflect on their own journeys while helping juniors navigate the online MBA course,” she says.
For something a little more unexpected, she suggests real-life scavenger hunts with a digital twist.
“We’ve done challenges like finding LEGO pieces or other objects,” she notes. “It’s a playful way to keep connected while stepping away from screens.”
The advice is to seek collaborative opportunities that allow you to connect naturally — whether it’s through mentorship, shared projects or even quirky team challenges.
Building Trust Through Collaboration
At the Robert H. Smith School of Business, in the US, professor Rosellina Ferraro sees team-based learning as a powerful connector.
“Our Action Learning course involves students working together for two semesters on real-world projects,” she explains. “Collaborating on deliverables builds trust and camaraderie.”
Global study opportunities are another standout feature. “These programs bring online students together with their on-campus peers,” says Ferraro. “It’s a chance to build networks that span continents.”
The lesson here is to use academic projects as a springboard to network. Don’t just focus on the task — learn about your teammates’ goals and strengths, and look for ways to support them.
At the Australian Graduate School of Management (AGSM) at UNSW Business School in Sydney, students form support groups from day one.
Jeremy Grace, director of AGSM’s part-time MBA programs, highlights their impact.
“Some of these groups form organically, while others are part of courses like leadership. They provide students with a partner to discuss issues and assessments,” he says.
Grace recalls one online MBA student who made an effort to respond to every introduction in a forum.
“She asked follow-up questions, which kept the conversation going,” he shares. “Her effort created a ripple effect, inspiring her peers to engage more deeply. That class still schedules other courses together.”
Grace encourages students to take the initiative; a simple follow-up question or thoughtful reply can turn a routine interaction into the start of a meaningful connection.
Alumni connections are another vital piece of the networking puzzle. At Smith, programs like Terps Networking Teams (TNT) and virtual alumni interviews help bridge the gap between current students and graduates.
Ferraro notes: “Engaging with alumni via platforms like LinkedIn opens doors to new opportunities and career advice.”
Meanwhile, AGSM’s Grace highlights career-focused workshops. “Networking strategies are embedded into events run by our careers department,” he says. From mock interviews to meet-the-CEO sessions, students are given the tools to grow their networks.
Grace’s tip here is: don’t underestimate the power of alumni networks. Be proactive in reaching out and building connections that can support your long-term goals.
The online MBA experience is, ultimately, what you make of it. Whether it’s through playful activities like scavenger hunts, deep discussions in a book club, or professional mentoring, opportunities to connect are everywhere.
As Durham’s Hardey puts it: “From small efforts, big things grow.”
So, step out of your comfort zone and try something new. Virtual connection is just the beginning — what you do with it is up to you.
