I envision myself playing a pivotal role in fostering innovation and best practices that benefit my team and organisation, the broader community, and the industry.
Why did you choose UC’s MBA programme?
One of the standout factors for me is the hybrid format, which combines in-person learning with online components. This was a critical factor, as I firmly believe that attending classes in person significantly enhances my learning experience. Engaging face-to-face with professors and fellow students is invaluable for my personal and academic growth.
Beyond academics, what other parts of the programme stand out?
UC's reputation for supporting working students, especially those with family responsibilities, is another standout feature. The understanding and flexibility that UC extends to students like me, juggling work and family, are crucial. This support system ensures I can balance my studies with my existing commitments, creating a conducive environment for personal and academic growth.
You’ve got over 17 years of experience in your field. How do you see an MBA enriching your career path?
While my current role has provided a solid foundation within the Building Construction sector, pursuing an MBA represents an opportunity to transcend boundaries, enhance my skills, and make a lasting impact. It's not just about advancing within my career but also about leveraging my knowledge to help others, contribute to industry advancements, and drive positive change beyond the confines of my immediate field. I'm excited about leveraging my MBA knowledge to help implement sustainable and efficient construction practices, contributing to improving our built environment and society.
Additionally, I recognise the MBA's capacity to accelerate career progression. It offers access to higher-level leadership roles, increased responsibilities, and an expanded network of influential professionals. This, in turn, positions me to lead by example and create an environment that nurtures the growth and success of my team members.
You wear a lot of hats! How do you balance everything with your studies?
Balancing my roles as a father, full-time professional, and student is both challenging and rewarding, made possible through effective time management that allows me to allocate dedicated periods for each responsibility.
UC's MBA programme accommodates my work and family commitments without compromising my education. Understanding the challenges faced by working students with families, the programme provides valuable support initiatives and resources, including flexible scheduling options, academic advising, and counselling services.
Moreover, the sense of community within the program fosters a supportive learning environment. Interactions with lecturers and peers who share similar experiences create a network where we exchange time management strategies and offer mutual encouragement.
What influence has your life experience had on your study journey?
My experiences, especially within my family and professional career, have significantly improved my ability to grasp the program's concepts more deeply and quickly. This dimension was noticeably absent during my initial degree, which primarily concerned obtaining a credential. Over time, I've realised that genuine understanding comes before acquiring qualifications. This shift in perspective has fundamentally altered my approach throughout this program.
My primary objective in pursuing this academic journey isn't solely on securing a qualification but on genuinely expanding my knowledge and deepening my understanding. I've realised that education's essence lies in the pursuit of knowledge and its practical application. This transformation in mindset has profoundly shaped my approach to the program, motivating me to engage more deeply with the subject matter and seek a more profound educational experience.
