Tamara Orlova
MBA 2019
Technical Artist at Electronic Arts (EA)
“The MBA provided me with an excellent opportunity to network within Vancouver's community.”
What three words best describe your SFU MBA experience?
Growth, networking, leadership.
Why did you decide to pursue an MBA and what drew you to the SFU Beedie School of Business?
During my work as an IT consultant, I have decided to pursue an MBA degree in order to gain a deeper understanding of business and potentially do a career switch.
I wanted to move to Vancouver, one of the top worldwide cities for quality of life. Beedie School of Business at SFU was my first choice, because it is such an intensive, all-in program with co-op and comprehensive list of courses that covered a broad range of topics, from business analytics to negotiation.
How did the SFU MBA program transform your career journey?
The MBA provided me with an excellent opportunity to network within Vancouver's community. During my studies, I was exposed to professionals from different industries; alumni, professors, and Beedie staff helped me with my job search and participation in career events.
What advice would you give to your past self if you were just starting your MBA?
One of the highlights of my MBA experience was the Mentors in Business program, which allowed me to connect with a mentor from the gaming industry. Through this 6-month relationship I have gained invaluable insight, and came up with an actionable plan on how to break into the industry. Other highlights include a Negotiation & Conflict Resolution course, which was later very helpful with salary negotiation, and a course project that involved helping a Vancouver-based AR gaming company Biba to formulate their strategy for international expansion.
What is your favorite place near the downtown Segal campus?
I have enjoyed going for a long walk on Seawall with an ice cream from Bella Gelateria.
Connect with our team
Our admissions team is more than happy to answer your questions so you know what you can expect before, during, and beyond your program.