Moving abroad for an MBA comes with big questions, especially when it comes to balancing studies and work. In this article, Mohammad Ubbad from India shares his journey from Ahmedabad to Amsterdam and how he successfully combines part-time work with his Master of Business Administration (MBA) at Tio Business School. Through honest insights and real experiences, he highlights the challenges, opportunities, and personal growth that come with studying abroad. Discover how Tio’s practical approach and supportive environment make this balance not only possible but truly rewarding.
When I first told people back home in Ahmedabad that I was moving to Amsterdam for my MBA, the reactions were a mix of excitement and concern. Fast forward to today, I’m an MBA student at Tio Business School, working part-time at a supermarket, one of the biggest supermarkets around here, helping with Tio's open days and events, and enjoying the balance between studying, working, and living in a completely new country. It hasn’t always been easy, but it has been one of the most rewarding learning experiences of my life.
This article is my honest take on how I combine part-time work with my MBA, what I’ve learned along the way, and why Tio made this journey much more manageable than I expected.
Starting over: Moving from India to the Netherlands
Moving from India to the Netherlands is not just a change of country; it’s a full lifestyle reset. New culture. New education system. New way of working. And yes… new weather.
In the beginning, everything feels unfamiliar. Simple things like grocery shopping, understanding work schedules, or even biking rules take time. But one thing I quickly realised is that Dutch society is very student-friendly, especially when it comes to working alongside studies. As an international student, working part-time is not just about earning money, it’s about integrating into society, improving communication skills, and gaining confidence.
Finding my first job
Like many international students, my priority after settling in was finding a part-time job. I started working at Jumbo, one of the biggest supermarket chains in the Netherlands. Working at Jumbo taught me much more than I expected: How Dutch workplaces function, customer service in a multicultural environment, time management between shifts and classes and communicating confidently in English (and picking up Dutch basics!).
The work culture is respectful and structured. Schedules are planned, and employers genuinely understand that you are a student first. That flexibility made it possible to focus on my MBA without feeling overwhelmed. And of course, having a steady income helps a lot when living in Amsterdam.
Studying an MBA at Tio: Fast-paced and practical
Tio Business School is known for being intensive, practical, and small-scale, and that’s exactly what makes combining work and studies possible. Classes are interactive, applied, and focused on real business situations. You’re not just memorising theories, you’re discussing cases, working in teams, and applying concepts that connect to the workplace.
Because the classes are structured and efficient, I can plan my work shifts around my academic schedule. The small class sizes also mean lecturers know you personally, which creates understanding when you’re balancing multiple responsibilities.
Earning while learning: Working at Tio open days & events
One thing I didn’t expect, and really appreciate, is that Tio itself offers earning opportunities for students. During open days, open evenings, and other school events, students can work in different roles such as: hospitality & guest welcoming, event coordination support, student guidance and campus operations. These experiences are incredibly valuable because they combine earning, learning, and networking in one place.
You learn how professional events are organised, how hospitality management works in practice, and how to represent an institution - all while getting paid. It also feels good to contribute to the school community and help future students who are in the same position you once were.
Managing time: The real challenge
Let’s be honest, combining an MBA with part-time work doesn’t always go smoothly. There are weeks with assignments, work shifts, and personal responsibilities all at once. The key lessons I’ve learned are: plan your week in advance, be realistic about your availability, communicate openly with employers and don’t overload yourself financially or mentally. Dutch work culture values honesty. If you’re upfront about your study commitments, most employers are very understanding.
Personal growth beyond the CV
The biggest benefit of working alongside my MBA isn’t just financial: It’s personal growth. I’ve become more independent, confident, and adaptable. I’ve learned how to function in an international environment, manage responsibilities, and step out of my comfort zone daily. Coming from India and building a life in Amsterdam has taught me resilience in ways no textbook ever could.
Final thoughts for future students
If you’re considering studying at Tio and wondering whether it’s possible to combine an MBA with part-time work, my answer is simple: yes, with the right mindset and planning.
Tio’s practical education model, supportive environment, and on-campus work opportunities make a real difference. Add that to the openness of the Dutch job market, and you’ll find plenty of chances to grow both professionally and personally. If you’re preparing for this journey and have questions about studying at Tio, working part-time, or moving from abroad, feel free to reach out to me on Unibuddy. I’m always happy to share my experience and help where I can.