Ten student teams spent a semester putting classroom theory into practice for ten different companies through Fisher College of Business’s Business Lab Challenge. First-year Full-Time MBA students tackled live business problems from organisations ranging from startups and family businesses to nationally recognised corporations, working as consultants over 15 weeks to deliver executive-level recommendations.
The result was more than a classroom assignment. It was a hands-on learning experience that transformed uncertainty into confidence and academic knowledge into strategic action, said Arjun Prasad, a student and FTMBA Student Council President.
“Business Lab was one of the richest experiences I have had at Fisher,” Prasad said. “Working with a client like Nestlé and my teammates was a great exposure to how organisations work and understanding the importance of navigating culture when delivering outcomes.”
Inside the business lab challenge course
Working in teams of four to five, students partnered directly with companies across Ohio to analyse complex business challenges, evaluate opportunities, and develop executive-level recommendations grounded in research and disciplined problem solving.
The course blends practical consulting experience with structured coaching and mentorship from Lori Kendall, Academic Director of the Full-Time MBA programme, and graduate teaching assistants who previously excelled in the programme. Along the way, students sharpened skills in collaboration, stakeholder management, strategic communication, and evidence-based decision-making.
Client and student feedback
“One of their greatest strengths is their support of each other,” said Liz Leonard, Director of Strategic Business Optimisation at Nestlé. “Every time we were on a call, they showed great team cohesion and were always very connected on what each person was working on.”
Throughout the semester, teams learned to navigate ambiguity, balance competing perspectives, and adapt their strategies based on client feedback – experiences that closely mirror the realities of modern business leadership. For the lab’s client partners, the experience delivered the tangible impact they were seeking.
“They have listened to feedback and have been able to adjust their approach iteratively. The executive team has been very pleased with their effort and proposal,” said Kevin Yania, Senior Manager, Process Agility, Retail at Bread Financial.
Skills gained beyond the classroom
Beyond polished final presentations, students left the course with hands-on experience solving complex business problems as part of a team, along with a stronger professional network built through their client partnerships. STAQ Pharma president Mark Spiecker praised the team's professionalism, saying their qualities would serve them well in future roles.
