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“The MBA program not only prepared me to understand what drives a high-performance culture but foundations of business operations and strategy.”

What three words best describe your SFU MBA experience?

Enlightening, Transformative, Fun!

Why did you decide to pursue an MBA and what drew you to the SFU Beedie School of Business?

After working for about 3 years in Hospitality, I realised I wasn’t finding happiness with the career path I had chosen for myself as a Restaurant Manager. I knew I wanted to create an impact and be an integral path of making a difference in the world – Improving and enriching the lives of others. Although the decision to do an MBA in a different country seemed daunting, I was certain it was the best way to challenge myself to broaden my knowledge about management and business across different industries if I truly wanted to be a change maker.

I decided to pursue the MBA at the SFU Beedie School of Business due to the robust curriculum it offered. I knew the general MBA without a specialization would allow to obtain well-rounded competences that would make my career switch more attainable. I was also drawn by the cross-cultural applied project where students worked collaboratively to solve real life problems while also having the opportunity to learn about how business is conducted in another host country.

How did the SFU MBA program transform your career journey?

I was always a people centric person. I recognized that that in order for me to able to influence workplace culture within a business, I needed to understand the drivers of culture and organizational behavior. The MBA program not only prepared me to understand what drives a high-performance culture but foundations of business operations and strategy. Although my favorite subjects were managing people and organizations and managing a globalized workforce, I developed invaluable skills in strategy, financial management and operations management. This allows me to take a multifaceted approach in serving my client organizations in my current role as an Associate in a management consulting firm. It has been truly inspiring and rewarding to be part of improving the way business in done in Canada.

What advice would you give to your past self if you were just starting your MBA?

Reflecting on my MBA journey, the advice I would give myself is that there is more than one formula for success. Everyone’s path is a little different and each step even more unique, but we can all experience the same success at the end of the day. All you have to know is to trust yourself and the journey you have had the courage to embark on.

What is your favourite place near the downtown Segal campus?

The Vancouver Art Gallery – A short walk from Segal, it always was and is an insightful experience to see the peaceful protests on international concerns that take place in front of the Art Gallery. Truly a platform where all are welcome. This is only possible in the multicultural mosaic that is Canada.

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