Mastering Work-Life Balance: James Kindelsperger's Journey Through Rutgers MBA

A Journey of Growth: Achieving a Rutgers MBA While Working Full-Time

James Kindelsperger's story of pursuing a Part-Time MBA at Rutgers University while navigating the complexities of a full-time job and a young family is nothing short of inspiring. With a demanding career and a tight schedule, Kindelsperger exemplifies how determination and strategic planning can lead to success.

For the past four years, James has been immersed in the Rutgers Part-Time MBA Program. As a dedicated father and husband, he understood the importance of maintaining a balance between his academic aspirations and his family commitments. Juggling responsibilities at work, coursework, and being an attentive father meant that scheduling was crucial for him. "It’s a challenging juggle," he admits, "but difficult and impossible are two different things. It is definitely achievable."

Having previously worked in data roles for six years, Kindelsperger joined Rutgers University in 2019. In his new position, he took on significant responsibilities, managing Salesforce and other data management systems. This career advancement also required him to relocate, adding another layer of complexity to his life.

Realizing his ambition for a graduate degree, James was motivated by the tuition remission benefit provided by his employer. Recognizing that his children were still young, he saw an opportunity to complete his MBA before they became involved in extracurricular activities. This thoughtful planning was instrumental in allowing him to achieve his educational goals while remaining present for his family.

Commencing his studies with a keen sense of focus, he opted for two courses per semester, even during summer break. However, his commitment to education often meant negotiating class timings with his wife, who had her professional obligations. Their synchronization underscored the importance of teamwork in their family life.

The challenges didn't end with class schedules alone; collaborating with classmates who were also balancing work and family responsibilities posed another hurdle. Kindelsperger and his peers occasionally broke into smaller groups to complete projects, often meeting late into the night, as they found creative solutions to maximize their productivity.

As a strategic student, Kindelsperger tailored his courses to maintain a balanced skillset, selecting both quantitative and qualitative classes throughout his studies. He received critical support from his academic advisor, Kathleen Price, who guided him in avoiding an overload of electives while ensuring he remained on track to graduate.

The Rutgers Part-Time MBA Program is highly regarded, ranking 23rd nationally by U.S. News & World Report and being recognized as the top public MBA program in the Northeast U.S. in 2025. Its adaptability, with options for online, in-person, or hybrid classes and various concentrations, makes it a suitable choice for working professionals aiming for advancement in their careers.

Before completing his MBA, Kindelsperger took a step forward in his career by accepting a new position as a senior business analyst at Princeton University’s financial aid office. His interviews were anchored in the skills he honed during his MBA, such as fluency in programming languages like Python and R, data governance, and effective communication strategies.

Reflecting on his journey, Kindelsperger expresses a sense of pride in his accomplishments. "Completing the MBA was exhilarating. It felt like a true achievement," he shares, highlighting the fulfillment that comes with accomplishing personal and professional goals. The experience serves as a testament to the idea that with determination, time management, and support, one can successfully balance the rigors of education and the demands of life.

In conclusion, James Kindelsperger's experience in the Rutgers Part-Time MBA program stands as a powerful example for working professionals seeking to further their education without sacrificing personal commitments. His story encourages others to explore how such programs can fit into their busy lives and ultimately lead to substantial career advancements. As Rutgers continues to adapt its offerings to the needs of students, more professionals may find the path to success arises through education, no matter the hurdles they face along the way.