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22 Jan 2021, 02:01
| FROM Smurfit MBA Blog: New Year’s Resolutions… 2021! |
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“Never give up on a dream just because of the time it will take to accomplish it. The time will pass anyway.” [url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earl_Nightingale]Earl Nightingale[/url] Resolutions are overrated, and we all know it. Even if you enjoy making lofty goals for the new year, simply declaring a resolution is not the same as making a plan to get there. But you know what? You don’t have to do that, either. This year, make a resolution that is small and simple. [img]https://smurfitschoolblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/20210107_094202-1-768x1024.jpg[/img] The view from self-isolation After the year of 2020, we still do not know what 2021 will bring. Over our Christmas break, I took a lot of time to reflect. This time last year I was in Fiji, sunning myself and not a care in the world. Fast forward a year, I am 1/3 through my MBA, life as we know it consists of endless amounts of Zoom calls, social distance walks and standing out in the cold drinking coffee. If you had said that to me last January, in the sunny Islands of Fiji, I would have laughed. I am certainly not laughing now. I have grown accustomed to staying connected with friends while keeping my distance. In line with my attempts to be healthy, be more motivated to do those home workouts and not roll my eyes at another Zoom session, my new years resolution is to be more connected. With a new MBA trimester, I have new teammates in my study group to get to know, and I am curious to work with different individuals and to learn from them and establish new connections. Yes to networking with new people, as MBA students, new people are encouraged and recommended; but also yes to being more connected with those around me. Having isolated due to COVID for a daunting 14 days over the Christmas, I do admit the time passes. Days are all one, and as I finish isolation I honestly am surprised how fast it went. Not saying you’ll get your life accomplishments completed, nor will you learn a language. But the quarantine gave me time to reconnect with myself, friends, family and some of my MBA colleagues. I was so grateful and overwhelmed by the calls, texts and kind gestures of food dropped off to my house. The kindness, generosity from old friends, new friends (MBA colleagues) and family members was incredible. This year I aim to make time to call those I love, make more of an effort to get to know my MBA colleagues (coffee zooms!) and be more present with the people in my life. [img]https://smurfitschoolblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Rainbow-over-suburban-street-1024x893.jpg[/img] A brighter, warmer perspective I’m leaving my personal isolation for a society-wide one: everything is closed and we should be restricting our movements for the better of everyone, particularly our healthcare staff. What can we do? Use the time as it passes. Make that coffee date on zoom, get our your calendars and book it in. Thinking of making a phone call, pick up the phone and make the call. Even a text message can make a huge difference to the person receiving it.Be it a dream, a catch up, a networking meeting or a check in. The time will pass by and hopefully we will be out of lock down soon, so do it now. The time will pass, as will restrictions and lockdowns, and hopefully in a few months we will be able to have a physical coffee chat in the warmth! —[url=https://www.linkedin.com/in/catrionabrady/]Catriona Brady,[/url] FTMBA Class of 2021 |
29 Jan 2021, 08:01
| FROM Smurfit MBA Blog: New MBA Offering + New Scholarship = This May be Your Year |
If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance you’re curious about doing an MBA at UCD Smurfit School. You may even have signed up for the MBA Open Event on 30 January at 9:30 a.m. Irish time. And you may be very pleased to know that 2021 will see the first intake class of UCD Smurfit’s Modular EMBA, With only two days’ attendance required each month, the new modular Executive MBA from UCD Smurfit School is the flexible choice for those with busy professional and personal schedules. We are also pleased to partner with her.ie to offer a full-tuition scholarship to the Modular EMBA. You can learn more about the scholarship, as well as hear from an alumna of the Midweek EMBA, in the article and podcast linked here. |
08 Feb 2021, 03:01
| FROM Smurfit MBA Blog: The Obstacle on the Path Becomes the Path |
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Our greatest freedom is the freedom to choose our attitude. [url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Viktor_Frankl]Viktor Frankl[/url] For many, the past 12 months have felt like a bit of a whirlwind. We went from what we thought was a 2-week lockdown, through copious amounts of zoom calls, to what people are now calling COVID fatigue. Like many others I have gone through substantial change this year. Wherever possible I have tried to embrace it with open arms, even when it didn’t come naturally: such as when I faced the maths section of the executive assessment exam. The past 7 years and a big chunk of my professional career were spent working in the Middle East, where I had worked hard to build a reputation as a person who delivered results in sales & business development. In July of 2020, five months into the COVID-19 pandemic, the world stood still for a moment. I received an email to say my role was impacted by the global headcount reduction at my company. If anyone has ever been impacted by redundancies before, you will know it is not the most pleasant experience to go through. There is still stigma around the word and many do not like to talk about it. Many self-critical thoughts raced through my mind: Could I have done more? Am I good enough? Did they not like me? It was a very strange and isolating time. I was reminded by a friend that redundancy doesn’t mean you are redundant, but your role is. [img]https://smurfitschoolblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/IMG_0430-1024x894.jpg[/img] Working with one of our growing customers in Dubai. Experience is what you get when you didn’t get what you wanted. [url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Randy_Pausch]Randy Pausch[/url] After letting the dust settle for a few days, I thought to myself, ‘how can I turn this event into an opportunity to grow?’ I narrowed it down to four areas: apply for a new role? travel the world? (Hard to do with a ban on most travel.) Set up my own business? or do an MBA? I’ve wanted to do an MBA for a long time. In my Microsoft Internship, I remember sitting with a colleague who was mid-way through their MBA and being positively impacted by their energy and excitement for the MBA course. The way they articulated and understood the bigger picture intrigued me. Following that conversation, I firmly placed the desire to do an MBA onto my things I would like to do in the future list. [img]https://smurfitschoolblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/DFM8530-1-1024x683.jpg[/img] Board member of the Irish Business Network Dubai presenting to members[b] [/b] If I am being very honest, I was a little naïve to the process of getting into an MBA programme. So, when I realized I not only had to do an entrance exam but there was also a section heavily weighted on maths, I was a little concerned. It had been so long since I had encountered any of these types of math. With six weeks to prepare for the executive assessment, I had a small moment of doubt. Had I left it too late to get up-to-speed and achieve the standard required in such a short time? If I didn’t pass the entry exams, I knew that the decision to return home could be the wrong decision and the year I had set-aside to complete the MBA could be an ambiguous time. I also knew that to wait another year before joining the MBA class was not a realistic option. Things won are done; joy’s soul lies in the doing. [url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Shakespeare]William Shakespeare[/url] So, with no time to lose, I began receiving Math tutoring 3 times a week for 3 weeks until I returned to Ireland. During this same period, I was preparing to leave Dubai. Rental agreements needed to be closed, belongings that could not be re-patriated needed to be disposed of and banking and visa requirements all needed attention. Most importantly, I needed to say goodbye to friends and colleagues. These 3 weeks were hectic and challenging on many fronts. Having arrived back in Ireland, I still was not feeling fully confident in the math section of the executive assessment. I tried the mock online and I knew I needed to find more help. I secured lessons with a GMAT professor: 2 hours of teaching per day, for 5 days, every morning, right up to the exam. Why am I telling you all this you might be wondering? The GMAT exam for me was an early lesson in overcoming my [url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/joyburnford/2019/01/30/limiting-beliefs-what-are-they-and-how-can-you-overcome-them/?sh=7d505d5a6303]limiting beliefs[/url]. I had to keep an open mind, tackle my weaknesses front-on, know when to ask for help, and map out a clear process to enable me to succeed. These same skills continued to help me throughout the first semester of the MBA, which, thanks to the complications of COVID-19, was not the easiest start. I have thoroughly settled into and am enjoying the course. I have been able to build relationships with my fellow students and lecturers and hope to strengthen these even further as time goes on. Funnily enough, and to my surprise, some of the subjects I have found the most interesting are maths-based: management accounting, financial statement analysis, and economics. Overcoming my limiting beliefs allowed me to go into subjects with an open mind, ask questions, and remain curious. [img]https://smurfitschoolblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/IMG_0955-768x1024.jpg[/img] Back home in ireland – for weekly Sunday swims at the 40Ft As I reflect over the past few months I remember an [url=https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/reflections-self-efficacy-becoming-better-version-yourself-hyland/]article[/url] that I wrote back in April, one month into the pandemic. I had just started watching Game of Thrones. In this scene, one of the characters (Ygritte) is sharpening and fine-tuning her bow & arrows amid a great storm. Her friend Tormund looks to her and says, ‘we could be here for a while; there is no need to rush with making arrows, come for a drink.’ Her response: “Good, the longer we wait, the more arrows I’ll have.” This is what stood out to me in Game of Thrones and this is what I hope the pandemic (our own storm) is for me. I hope to take what I learned in conquering the maths section of the GMAT and, at the end of my MBA, come back out to the market with my skills sharpened. Career success is not about being employed but being employable. Change is the only constant in life and does not have to define us. A true test of character is how we react when it does. —[b][url=https://www.linkedin.com/in/conorhyland/]Conor Hyland[/url], FTMBA Class of 2021[/b] |
12 Feb 2021, 03:01
| FROM Smurfit MBA Blog: Becoming a Better Negotiator with the Thought Leadership Society |
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[img]https://smurfitschoolblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/image-8-1024x563.png[/img] The MBA Thought Leadership Society recently ran a very informative session on the subject of becoming a better negotiator. [url=https://www.smurfitschool.ie/executivedevelopment/internationalprogrammes/internationalopenenrolment/negotiationskillsandstrategies/faculty/]Stephen Boyle[/url] is a lecturer at UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School, where he delivers courses in negotiation, influence and decision making on executive development, MBA, and other postgraduate degree programmes. Over the course of the session Stephen touched on a range of topics to make one a better negotiator, from the benefits of viewing the process as a collaborative one over competitive, to always having a BANTA (Best alternative to a negotiated agreement) whenever engaging in negotiation oneself. He further focused attendees’ minds on identifying their interest or purpose in engaging in any negotiation, their targets (with a reminder to be ambitious) and priorities. As an extension, he helped participants view compromise in negotiations as trade off between various packages and discussed the value in putting yourself in the other side’s shoes when identifying compromises that would work for both, thus leading to greater value for both parties and developing more positive relationships. Finally, he noted the importance of the people factor in any negotiations, and advised students that while generating a positive relationship is vital, to not put it above your own long term interests. After Stephen’s presentation he spent significant time answering students’ questions, indicative of the great level of interest his talk provoked. Questions ranged from topics such as “the difference between persuasion and negotiation” to “the proper level of information sharing at the beginning of negotiations”. The questions themselves went on for as long as the presentation itself, and would have likely continued if allowed. The presentation was clearly an event enjoyed by all and we of the Thought Leadership Society look forward to our next speaker session. [b]—[url=https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kilroy-glynn-30219b45/?originalSubdomain=ie]Paul Kilroy-Glynn[/url][/b],[b] FTMBA Class of 2021[/b] |
17 Feb 2021, 11:01
| FROM Smurfit MBA Blog: Q&A Event: Women on the MBA |
 Considering an MBA, but wondering what it’s like from a student perspective? What about work/life balance? What about family care? What about funding? Join members of GEMBA (Gender Equity on the MBA) to discuss your concerns and the many opportunities available when undertaking the Smurfit MBA. Date and time: Wednesday, 24th February from 7.30pm – 8.30 pm Introduction: Professor Gerardine Doyle, Director UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School, will discuss gender equity initiatives at the college and opportunities for incoming students Moderator and Panel Members: Katrina Enros (Chair, 2nd year EMBA), Chhavi Negi (full-time MBA), Caitlin McBride (full-time MBA), Sharon Maguire (2nd year EMBA), Lynda Unogu (2nd year EMBA), Kate Killeen (1st year EMBA). Interested? You can learn more about the event here, and register to attend here. |
19 Feb 2021, 02:01
| FROM Smurfit MBA Blog: People are What Really Matter |
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‘People are what really matter.’ This simple expression sounds like an old cliché that everyone is tired of hearing, but it is impressive how we end up forgetting its real meaning throughout our lives. I wanted to restate its value in this post, remembering what really is important during the Smurfit MBA and thanking all the awesome people who are making it happen. I started the Smurfit MBA hopeful that I would have a relatively normal year studying in Ireland, a country that presented low Covid-19 infection levels at that moment. Two weeks into the course my hopes weakened when Dublin entered in level 3 restrictions and classes went virtual. Thereafter, a series of additional restrictions and uncertainties took place, further shaking my hopes for a good normal life. However, my hopes are stronger than before, and this is unexpected. Without the opportunities for connection we might have taken for granted in the past, my fellow students and our professors are creating new approaches for collaboration and getting to know one another:
 Walk and talk with a classmate In short, it is a fact that people’s connections are harmed due to the pandemic, we are aware enough of that, but who better to deal with it than the Smurfit MBA cohort? I realized that I have been studying every day by myself for 6 months, but never really felt alone. At first, I thought it was because of the books and the amount of learning I was getting from them. But now, I am sure it is because of all the people around me. It is because the Smurfit group also knows that people are what really matter. So, this is a letter of thanks to the amazing people around me, students, professors, staff, executive coaching, workshop lectures and all Smurfit cohort.  Pre-lockdown pizza with my first-trimester study group
 Cabinteely Park, host of the executive coaching meeting
The apex of all the processes is how our thoughts, way of thinking and beliefs are put in check by the presence of others. Every text reading, every discussion among students and professors, gives my mind something to reason about. Our Operation Management professor said we are here to change the rules of the game. It is up to us now to change the rules for best ways to improve our personal connections. —Fernando Muller, FTMBA Class of 2021 |
26 Feb 2021, 02:01
| FROM Smurfit MBA Blog: How do I know if an MBA is the right choice for me? |
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[img]https://smurfitschoolblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/SON2002_0125-1024x683.jpg[/img] UCD Quinn School of Business. Picture by Shane O’Neill, SON Photographic Many prospective students who might consider an MBA are toying with a lot of questions right now. How do I know… if an MBA is the right choice for me? If it’s the right time? If I’m capable of doing an MBA? So here’s a few thoughts I’d like to share, based on my experience of meeting & accepting students onto our own [url=https://www.smurfitschool.ie]UCD Smurfit MBA programme[/url]. First, a bit of background info. [b]What is an MBA?[/b] The MBA is a Master of Business Administration. Ultimately, this is a general management degree aimed at people who have several years’ professional work experience. All MBAs will cover topics such as Finance, Marketing, Human Resources, Strategy, Leadership & Organisational Behaviour – important core management subjects. You will get the opportunity to choose options where you can specialise in other areas and explore other topics–from Data Analytics, to Digital Transformation–and you will have opportunities to develop your consultancy skills and work with client companies on projects, including a final Capstone project. In UCD Smurfit, we also have an extensive Leadership Development Programme to develop your capabilities in this field. You can study an MBA full-time for one year or part-time over two years (weekly or monthly options). [b]I’m worried that I have no business experience.[/b] So What? Everyone comes to an MBA with certain knowledge: so perhaps you’re an engineer, or a marketing specialist, or a pharmacist. You may know nothing about financial reporting, but you will learn from your classmates, some of whom will know a bit about this, and you will have opportunities to use your experience to add value for your classmates at different points throughout the programme. So, it’s checks and balances. You don’t need a business background–in fact, everyone brings something different to the table. There is not one profile we look for. We always consider what you as a prospective candidate can bring to the classroom experience. And that’s what’s so great about an MBA: everyone is so different, from different industries, different professional experience, different nationalities. This is what will challenge you and challenge your way of thinking: not everyone thinks the same way or approaches a problem in the same way that you do! [img]https://smurfitschoolblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Outdoor-seating-area.png[/img] The first and most important question I always ask someone is, [b]WHY?[/b] For you personally, why do you want to do an MBA? What is your motivation? It’s so important that you clearly understand your own motivation – when things get tough this will get you through! Look, let’s be honest here… an MBA is a BIG time and financial commitment. Don’t rush to a decision, take your time, think it through before you commit to this. Involve your partner and family in the decision process as this will impact on them too – make sure they are supportive and understand the extra time commitment which means time spent away from them. And don’t forget that an understanding and flexible employer makes this a lot easier for you too. Consider how to show your employer that your MBA will benefit them too! Some people who join us spend a few years planning to do an MBA – others not so much! However one thing is clear: this is an investment in your future. The most common reasons to do an MBA are as follows: [list][*]to pivot to a new role or industry, [/*][*]to develop management skills and gain a broader knowledge of management topics [/*][*]for career advancement reasons.[/*][/list] [img]https://smurfitschoolblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Copy-of-Coffee-dock-courtyard.png[/img] Perhaps you have a manager you admire and she has an MBA and is encouraging you to apply. This has got you thinking about your own career advancement, with your current employer or potentially elsewhere. Or perhaps you are a specialist who wants to move in a general management direction, but you don’t believe you have the skillset or perhaps the confidence to progress. An MBA can help! We have loads of evidence from our own MBA alumni to prove that they have achieved all of these objectives. Word of warning, however… an MBA is not a magic wand. It’s important to know why you want to do an MBA, and make sure when you get here to make the most of the experience and the opportunities here for you. That means making an effort to meet new people, e.g. your classmates and MBA alumni, to improve your networking skills. Engage actively with the extra -curricular activities such as Clubs and other events… and be proactive! Don’t sit back and expect things to just happen. Use your initiative, make suggestions, be positive, take the opportunities that come your way. This is a unique experience. At the end of your programme you will look back fondly at the time spent doing your MBA, the friends you made and the community you joined. In a very short space of time, you will become part of our cherished MBA alumni community, where we will continue to engage with you–and hopefully see you return to meet the next batch! —[b][url=https://www.linkedin.com/in/careysophie/]Sophie Carey[/url], Senior Manager, MBA Programmes[/b] |
03 Mar 2021, 09:01
| FROM Smurfit MBA Blog: International Women’s Day on the MBA |
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On Monday 8 March, UCD Smurfit will celebrate International Women’s Day with a variety of events–and you’re invited! [img]https://smurfitschoolblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/IWDPoster-724x1024.png[/img] At 11 a.m., you can join the UCD Smurfit MBA Entrepreneurship Club for a panel discussion on the topic ‘Evolve to Revolve, Women in Industry.’ You can register for the event via [url=https://bit.ly/IWD2021UCD]this link[/url]. [img]https://smurfitschoolblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Dress-For-Success-IWD-1024x475.jpg[/img] The next event will take place at 3 p.m., thanks to a partnership between Business & Finance and Dress for Success Dublin in honour of the day. [b]Sonya Lennon, Founder of Dress for Success Dublin [/b]will host a [url=https://www.pechakucha.com/]Pecha Kucha[/url] style presentation discussing the theme [b]“Choose to Challenge”[/b]. Our panelists will discuss how things are progressing and changing for gender equality from a personal, professional and societal context with actionable tips, and a positive outlook. You can register [url=https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_PPa2vkDQQiSlA8HnshoM9g?utm_campaign=International%20Womens%20Day&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9Ornhpc_CUKofdgutK3xkhYtQyN9RUvYeFj7YSvoVmkvj8fqdDimgKyY_Pp9VyOW8-891WJRQ6h_6C8TxEA2lI5JR6XA&_hsmi=113525903&utm_content=113525903&utm_source=hs_email&hsCtaTracking=c3b70070-7937-432d-8946-68363b0cf378%7C60e4b11d-a9ce-4111-97b9-8fee21d3b774]here [/url]to attend. Following the panel discussion, [b]David McRedmond, CEO of An Post[/b] will join our host to consider the business benefits, and share practical company experiences of making change in An Post. Plus we will hear from special guests including [b]Margot Slattery[/b], Global Diversity and Inclusion Lead at Sodexo, [b]Deirdre Mortell[/b], CEO of Rethink Ireland, [b]Mairín NiBheachain[/b], Stylist and Enterpreneur at MoStyle & Mise Collars, and Dress for Success Dublin Mentor [b]Vanessa O’Mahony[/b]. [b]Donate Your Commute[/b] [url=https://dublin.dressforsuccess.org/]Dress for Success Dublin[/url] is a not-for-profit organisation that promotes the economic independence of women in Ireland by providing job search supports and career development services to women seeking to (re)enter the workforce. This International Women’s Day we ask that you [b]#Donateyourcommute[/b] to support the invaluable services Dress for Success provide. [img]https://smurfitschoolblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/International-Womens-Day-Event-1-1024x576.png[/img] At 6:30 Monday evening, you are invited to the UCD Smurfit Women, Inspiring More/GEMBA’s International Women’s Day Event: “Throwing out the rulebook: Leadership in times of crisis.” You can register for the event [url=https://ucd-ie.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_OH_n37YfQz653fGsolEloA]here[/url]. Following on from our January launch, we hope to continue to form a network to discuss obstacles faced by women in the professional world to prepare both women and men for the transition to the workforce. This month’s event will feature a panel discussion with Mark Ryan, former Country Managing Director of Accenture and a Non-Executive Director of Wells Fargo Bank International, Publicis, PwC and DCC. A long time advocate of gender balance in business, during his time in Accenture, Mark created the successful Accent on Women (AoW) programme designed to develop a clear career path for women in business. We will also be joined by Sharon Cunningham, a UCD Smurfit MBA alumna and CEO & Co-Founder at Shorla Pharma, a female-led healthcare company focusing on the development of innovative drugs for women’s and paediatric cancer. Sharon was named Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneur 2019 and recognised as one of the 100 most influential CEOs in Ireland by Business & Finance Media Group 2020. The discussion will be moderated by Caitlin McBride, current MBA student and author of “The Day That Changed My Life: Inspirational Stories from Ireland’s Women.” Date: Monday, 8th March, 2021 Time: 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm Location: Virtual event | Dublin, Ireland Registration Link: [url=https://ucd-ie.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_OH_n37YfQz653fGsolEloA]https://ucd-ie.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_OH_n37YfQz653fGsolEloA[/url] Last but not least: If you’re interested in pursuing an MBA and weren’t able to make the [url=https://smurfitschoolblog.com/2021/02/qa-event-women-on-the-mba/]Women on the MBA[/url] panel discussion on 24 February, you can watch a recoding of the event [url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6maxlHGUAxg&feature=youtu.be]here[/url]. |
05 Mar 2021, 07:01
| FROM Smurfit MBA Blog: Eureka! |
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[img]https://smurfitschoolblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Hamzah-Hassan-headshot-3.jpg[/img] Hamzah Hassan If someone had told me in 2018 (when I sat for the GMAT) that I would attend business school in a t-shirt and pyjamas, I would have dismissed them as some sort of nutter. Cue 2020 and the joke was on me. Or should I say, all of the full-time class! It has its advantages, being at the comfort of my sofa and dining table and snacking away on nachos while scribbling pages and pages of notes. Coming back to university after a nearly twelve-year gap seemed a little intimidating at first. Will I be able to make sense of everything? What about the workload? Am I going to sit through class like a confused dinosaur? I suppose many people face these thoughts on the first day. The simple answer to all of this I would say is “You’ll be fine”. We have all made it through the gruelling years of undergraduate study and working life and committed ourselves to achieving a goal, all that is left is to just “get on with it”. The first few weeks feel like a very steep climb, with new material to learn, assignments and presentations and so on, but quite soon, one just gets into a certain rhythm, and the weeks start flying by. [img]https://smurfitschoolblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/rohan-makhecha-jw3GOzxiSkw-unsplash-683x1024.jpg[/img] Aha! Photo by [url=https://unsplash.com/@rohanmakhecha?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText]Rohan Makhecha[/url] on [url=https://unsplash.com/s/photos/science?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText]Unsplash[/url] The most rewarding part of study is that “Aha!” moment, which typically happens when you realise that you start looking at the world through the frameworks taught in class. You might look at the workings of a hospital and start thinking about how its management could do better to foster more teamwork or a better work environment for its personnel. You might look at a company and start evaluating its competitive advantage or the potential pitfalls of its business strategy, as if by reflex. You might even pull out an annual financial report and zoom right into the details to prove a particular point. The application of classroom study is much quicker. Every term has a course or two that are the most memorable for a student. Competitive Strategy, taught by Dr. Brian McGrath, is my pick for the first term, with its engaging and unique business cases. The class itself was never short of banter despite being taught remotely, and full of many eureka moments as the weeks went on. When we venture back into working life, we’ll all definitely be thinking about the ways and means to “capture and sustain a competitive advantage” every single day. The second-term course on Negotiation is probably one of the most challenging ones I have faced personally, as it takes me far out of my comfort zone, but I’m all the more thankful for it. With its multitude of handy frameworks and challenging simulations and role-plays, I think it is a great experience to practise and learn how to be a better negotiator… to “capture and sustain a competitive advantage”. [img]https://smurfitschoolblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/20201220_170748-1-1024x768.jpg[/img] Flashback to more-open times When we could meet for a ‘Sláinte!’ moment to help us find more ‘Eureka!’ moments Business school is a bit like a series of many lab experiments, each one building into the next. At the start, there is what feels like “the great unknown” looming ahead. Then, as one goes along, every couple of steps bring with them moments of unique insight, the ones where you think “Aha! I get this!” or “Aha! I can do this better!” Along with you are many fascinating and talented individuals, adding to those eureka moments. While the first few steps look daunting, just have a plan, stick to it and keep going. Those moments will happen! [b]—[url=https://www.linkedin.com/in/hamzah-hassan/]Hamzah Hassan[/url], FTMBA Class of 2021[/b] |
19 Mar 2021, 09:01
| FROM Smurfit MBA Blog: MBA Profile: Meet a full-time MBA Class Rep! |
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As detailed in a previous post, Conor Hyland returned to Ireland to start the UCD Smurfit MBA in summer of 2020. We’re delighted he’s agreed to answer three questions to kick off our occasional Student Profiles series! -Editor What was your job/career prior to applying for the MBA? The last company I worked for was LinkedIn MENA, based in Dubai. My role was to help organisations design, build and execute a strategy to attract top candidates to their organisation by elevating their employer brand and empowering their team to find the right talent, for the right role, at the right time. My clients had operations that span the globe and range from start-ups in hypergrowth to large enterprises that want to keep flourishing. I worked with an amazing cross-functional team of analysts, media consultants and customer success managers, to help tackle our clients’ biggest business challenges through insights that drive impact and results. I was also proudly a board member of the Irish Business Network in Dubai who helped Irish or people with an affiliation with Ireland to facilitate connections between individuals and companies and improve individual and collective capabilities and grow Irish led and supported businesses. What skills have you learned in the programme so far that you’re most excited to take to work? As Nassim Taleb says; “You will never truly convince someone they are wrong, only reality will.” What I have enjoyed the most about the MBA is that a lot of the real lessons are in the doing, not the theory. Throughout the programme I have had many learnings and I’m only half way through the programme, so I will surely have many more to add by the end of the year. Some of the learnings i have recently reflected on are the below:
 Getting some fresh air How would you spend your ideal day off? I was recently listening to a podcast with Matthew McConaughey where he discussed the importance of choosing the right mindset. He said as a child, whenever he would enter into the kitchen in a negative mindset, his mother would say: “Don’t come back until you can see the Rose in the vase rather than the dust on the table.” That message really resonated with me. It’s been a tough time for everyone this year and sometimes all we can see is the dust on the table. Yet we always have a choice, a choice to see the positives. That’s not to say we should be Pollyanna-ish but understanding where our focus goes our energy will flow is important when deciding. So with that in mind my ideal day has changed to focus much more on the little details and to focus on the positives, smells, feelings, visuals and expanding those moments. Covid-19 has compelled me to be grateful for the little things that one can experience. A perfect day off for me is waking up early and having a hot coffee which I have prepared the night before, so I wake up to smell of coffee brewing. Then head out for a walk along Dun Laoghaire pier, taking in the sounds of the waves crashing against the rocks and the smell of the fresh morning air before dipping in for a refreshing swim. There’s something quite magical about the Irish sea that you can’t quite explain but only experience. On the walk back home the Italian bakery buzzing with people queuing outside like bees shut out from their nest, always tempts me in for a coffee and freshly cooked bomboloni. In the evening-time, it’s time to unwind, mediate and read a book. If you asked me to describe my perfect day a year ago it probably wouldn’t have looked or sounded anything like that. But the times that we live in require us to see things differently, to change our perspective and to experience and enjoy the little things that are within our control. I hope I don’t forget these lessons when this all comes to an end. —Conor Hyland, FTMBA Class Rep, Class of 2021 |
31 Mar 2021, 06:01
| FROM Smurfit MBA Blog: ‘The Invisible Job’: A Webinar |
 Mark your diaries for 14 April, from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.! You are invited to the UCD Smurfit Women, Inspiring More April Webinar, “The Invisible Job: Balancing Gender Roles at Work and Home”. This month’s event will feature a discussion between Paula Fyans, author of The Invisible Job: How Sharing Home and Parental Responsibilities Leads to Happier Lives, and Dr Marie Murray, clinical psychologist, systemic psychotherapist and author. Fyans’ book features extensive scientific research and 1:1 interviews with women in Ireland and the UK to define and investigate the gender imbalances that exist in ‘The Invisible Job.’ The event will expand upon the contents of the book, to explore how this imbalance negatively impacts women’s career progression, financial security, physical and mental health and self-identity. You can register for the event here. UCD Smurfit Women, Inspiring More is an initiative conceived by students and alumni of the UCD Smurfit School. With backgrounds that are diverse in thought, culture and experiences, we have come together around a common passion. That passion is to promote the interests of women in education and the professional world. We aim to raise awareness of the challenges that women face in these environments, and form a network where such topics can be discussed openly. While there exist a number of corporate or industry oriented groups, we seek to bring the forum to a University level where students, both female and male, can be prepared before entering the workforce. In this way, we can also encourage a greater participation of female students in UCD Smurfit School Masters programmes on their pathway to success. We aim to “inspire more,” encouraging women to think beyond any preconceived notions of glass ceilings or barriers in anything they pursue. |
07 Apr 2021, 03:01
| FROM Smurfit MBA Blog: MBA Student Leads Ambassador Communications Effort for Biggest Daffodil Day Ever |
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[img]https://smurfitschoolblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Infographic_FA_National_2021-02_1.jpg[/img] Congratulations! to current full-time MBA student [url=https://smurfitschoolblog.com/2020/11/outside-the-comfort-zone/]Caitlin McBride[/url], who led the ambassador communications strategy for the 2021 Daffodil Days fundraiser for the [url=https://www.cancer.ie/about-us]Irish Cancer Society.[/url] Caitlin championed efforts including the 26 March Late Late Show special featuring pop duo [url=https://www.independent.ie/entertainment/pop-twins-jedward-shavequiffs-to-help-raise-26m-for-irish-cancer-society-40245037.html]Jedward[/url], who lost their mother to cancer in 2019, shaving their quiffs as part of the fundraising effort. The show raised close to €3 million for the “[url=https://www.cancer.ie/about-us]community [/url]of patients, survivors, volunteers, supporters, health and social care professionals and researchers … transforming the experiences and outcomes of people affected by cancer through our advocacy, support services and research.” Caitlin said: “This year’s Daffodil Day was the most important in the history of the Irish Cancer Society and in that sense, I’m honoured that I can now say I am part of history. We have all been touched by cancer. Harnessing my experience both professionally and personally to create a blueprint for such an exciting and educational campaign, which raised a record breaking €6m, is an experience I won’t soon forget. Double-jobbing a project of this magnitude with a full-time MBA has not only prepared me for the challenges and opportunities that await me after graduating from UCD Smurfit School, but copper fastened my commitment to community and giving back. And let’s be honest – watching Jedward shave their heads was fantastic television!” This year’s Irish Daffodil Days fundraising efforts are set to become the biggest on record. |
09 Apr 2021, 02:01
| FROM Smurfit MBA Blog: Why am I Taking this MBA? |
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Now I’m just over halfway through the course, I have asked myself these questions several times: why am I taking this MBA? Should I continue taking it? Although the reasons change and there are always twists and turns, the answer is always: YES. [b]Before the MBA[/b] I was working as a trader in a mutual fund asset management company in Beijing before I moved to Dublin in 2018 July. After settling down in Dublin, I found out that I couldn’t work due to the government’s spouse working restriction. So I decided to do some traveling and learned to cook. A year later, when the policy changed, I got a job working as a video editor in a company offering Irish information and immigration services to Chinese people. Although the work went very well and I enjoyed my time with my colleagues, I was hoping to be able to return to my area of expertise. Then the problem came, and most of my resumes sank into the sea. A friend told me an MBA might be very helpful in finding a job. I successfully applied for Ireland’s best MBA. [img]https://smurfitschoolblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/1-1024x341.jpg[/img] [b]The first two months[/b] Many peers view this MBA as a step to jump out of the comfort zone. There’s a joke: when you jump out the comfort zone, you’ll find nothing but discomfort. The first week I was really suffering: fast pace, endless case studies, quite stressful. When I chatted with a friend in Ireland, she told me she dropped out of Trinity’s MBA last year after the first month because she couldn’t bear the burden. I couldn’t believe my ears: She is the one who has already graduated with a biology Ph.D. in China. If she couldn’t make it, how can I? I was very anxious and struggling with how I’m supposed to make it every day. I changed my mind after a conversation with Mark, a Smurfit MBA career consultant and also my interviewer. He suggested that I should adjust my mind and change the way I look at it. If I could survive, I would have an amazing story to tell when hunting a job. His words worked. I got to be less anxious and more open about these dilemmas. [img]https://smurfitschoolblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2-1024x775.jpg[/img] Team-building screenshot [b]The second two months[/b] Although I’d adjusted my mind, the challenges remained. It was a relief when I found all my classmates felt the same. Fortunately, I was familiar with most subjects on the syllabus. I had already taken Accounting, Economics and Strategy courses at my undergraduate and graduate levels. But I still needed to adapt to a different teaching style and overcome my language barriers. My teammates kept encouraging me and always offered me some constructive advice to improve myself. Aga, the Full Time MBA Programme Manager, shared a lot of practical advice from her own experience and put me in touch with a Chinese alumnus to help solve my problems. Lecturers encouraged us to form our own ideas around different cases: not just telling us right or wrong, instead, they led us to the final point by ourselves. I found that I acquired a new understanding of these familiar contents. [img]https://smurfitschoolblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/3-1024x779.jpg[/img] Zoom presentation Then I got a different answer to my question: I do want to improve myself by this MBA, from both language and professional side. I really felt the charm of case studies, and I was able to analyse things from a more comprehensive perspective and had my own point of view. These ascensions were not in my plan, but I was more than happy to gain. I had more faith in myself. [b]The third two months[/b] Due to covid-19, things were getting worse, so I went back to China. The plan doesn’t always keep up with the circumstances. The one-month vacation turned into a plan of probably never going back to Dublin. My family wanted me to look for a job in my hometown. Everyone started to ask me the same question: Are you going to continue your MBA? Soon I got the answer: yes, I need it. It’s not enough. I want to get more steps away from my comfort zone. There are still many topics I’d like to hear from the lecturers, many things I want to learn from my excellent new teammates, many peers that I want to have more connections with. So I convinced myself, again. [img]https://smurfitschoolblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/4-683x1024.jpg[/img] I’ve thought about giving up many times. But to this day I want to say, fortunately, I didn’t. At first, all I wanted was a diploma. But I got more than that. Confidence, new vision, different modes of thinking and high-tolerance of stress. More importantly, I have friends that I would never know without taking the MBA. With half of the MBA journey left, I hope I can get more unexpected surprises. Perhaps many years from now, when I recall this journey, it will become a rare experience that I’ll pride myself on in my life. [b]—[url=https://www.linkedin.com/in/ke-chen-b0096a1b5/]Ke Chen[/url], FTMBA Class of 2021[/b] |
14 Apr 2021, 02:01
| FROM Smurfit MBA Blog: Panel Discussion: Women on the MBA |
 Please join us on 21 April from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. for a panel discussion specifically for women interested in undertaking an MBA. The conversation will address the topic ‘Utilising an MBA to Accelerate Your Career‘, and you can find more information and register to join it here. The globally-ranked Smurfit MBA provides an unequalled opportunity to unlock and develop your leadership potential, accelerate your career and build your global network. On 21 April, Dr. Orla Byrne, Assistant Professor in Entrepreneurship on the Smurfit MBA, will chair a panel of current students and alumnae who will share their experiences and highlight the importance and impact of the MBA on their professional and personal progression. The event will also feature an introduction from Professor Gerardine Doyle, Associate Dean UCD College of Business & Director UCD Smurfit School, and practical information about the MBA, admissions, and scholarships from MBA Admissions & MBA Programme team members. |
16 Apr 2021, 03:01
| FROM Smurfit MBA Blog: MBA HACKATHON 2021 |
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[img]https://smurfitschoolblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Hackathon-Team-4-Photo-2.png[/img] The Author and her Hackathon Team, who took home an Honourable Mention for their expert Q&A skills During the Spring break, UCD Smurfit Business School organized an MBA Hackathon in partnership with the The Austral Education Group for all MBA students. The theme for the Hackathon was ‘Sustainability’, wherein we were asked to devise a strategy for a real-world issue faced by Chilean company [url=https://bonoboss.com/]Bonoboss Handmade Accessories[/url]. The 5-day event opened with a session on Sustainable Consumer Behavior by UCD Associate Professor [url=https://people.ucd.ie/geertje.schuitema]Geertje Schuitema[/url], followed by the Hackathon Challenge Presentation by the Founder of Bonoboss, [url=https://www.linkedin.com/in/csilvad/]Cristobal Silva[/url]. [img]https://smurfitschoolblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/unnamed-5-1-1024x511.png[/img] Bonoboss CEO Cristobal Silva The entire MBA cohort is brimming with people from diverse professional backgrounds, wherein we have been solving various challenges at work in our own domains. Ever since our MBA journey began, we have been yearning to apply our newly acquired MBA skills to resolve work challenges that we may have missed or floundered earlier. This hackathon was the first taste of a real-life challenge since the start of our MBA journey. Concepts and frameworks such as [url=https://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newTMC_08.htm]Porter 5 forces[/url], [url=https://www.businessnewsdaily.com/4245-swot-analysis.html#:~:text=A%20SWOT%20analysis%20is%20a,in%20making%20a%20business%20decision.]SWOT analysis[/url], [url=https://www.investopedia.com/terms/f/four-ps.asp]Marketing 4Ps[/url], [url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opportunity_cost]opportunity cost[/url] and [url=https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/resources/knowledge/strategy/asset-allocation/]asset allocation[/url] flashed right before us as soon as we heard the problem statement. Add to it the ring of sustainability and we had to get our most creative hats on. Bonoboss makes accessories out of recycled and reusable material, such as wooden sunglasses, optical frames, bags and watches. The brand also plants 1 tree per purchase. But when their customers’ preferences shifted from sustainability to style, Bonoboss found itself in rough waters. To understand more about the challenges, we were given 15 mins with the CEO. It was an informative session as we asked questions to better understand the core of the problem and where we could effectively contribute to a workable and measurable solution. Working in a group of 5 for a problem like this brought many interesting viewpoints to the fore. Someone in our group focused on the business side and drew analogy from a similar local player in his own country to get some ideas. Someone else talked about how other brands they had worked with promote their own sustainable products. [img]https://smurfitschoolblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/unnamed-3-1-1-1024x576.png[/img] Judge [url=https://people.ucd.ie/kathleen.oreilly]Kathy O’Reilly[/url] listens to the winning presentation On the final day, it was fascinating to see how all the 4 teams had come up with myriad creative and thought-provoking solutions to Cristobal’s problem. One team went as far as creating a short video suggesting new ways of brand promotion. But the winning team stood out with their ingenious solution that centred around engaging with the customers on the issue of sustainability, employing the 80/20 rule, and cutting corners by focusing on domestic market before venturing into foreign waters – the three golden rules that we have learnt during our MBA sojourn till now. By participating in the Hackathon, we learnt a great deal about running small businesses: how to make decisions when less market and research data is available, and how to think outside the box while keeping the frameworks that we have learnt in last 6 months as our guiding principles. Overall, it was a great experience and got us excited about the Capstone project that we will be doing in the next trimester, and we thank the MBA Programme Office for arranging this for us. —[b][url=https://www.linkedin.com/in/chhavinegi/]Chhavi Negi[/url], FTMBA Class of 2021[/b] |
19 Apr 2021, 03:01
| FROM Smurfit MBA Blog: Modular EMBA in the Irish Times |
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If you’ve attended any of the UCD Smurfit MBA events for prospective students, you’ve heard a bit about the Modular EMBA launching in autumn 2021. Designed to offer a low-residency option to those with busy personal and professional schedules, the Modular EMBA presents all the material of our acclaimed Weekly EMBA, delivered through a combination of independent work and intensive, on-campus monthly class meetings. An article in the Irish Times for 12 April offers a fuller description of the new delivery method: Typically, students will be on campus once a month (Friday and Saturday) and will undertake a number of week-long modules over the course of the two year programme. This move to blended delivery will appeal to applicants juggling busy work and home lives. “We are trying to facilitate people who may live outside Dublin or who are busy with their careers,” says Prof Cal Muckley, academic director of the MBA programmes at Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School. “We bring people in for one weekend per month on a Friday and Saturday each semester. We deliver one module each month over the two years of the programme and students engage in online learning before each one. All the modules have been redesigned to fit in with the new delivery mode.” Irish Times, ‘Smurfit MBA Programme shifting to a modular format,’ 12 April 2021 The UCD Smurfit Admissions Office has several events for prospective students coming up, and we invite you to attend to learn more about the MBA’s various delivery methods, application process, and available scholarships. You can learn more about each event, and register for any that appeal to you, at the links below:
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21 Apr 2021, 03:01
| FROM Smurfit MBA Blog: MBA Information Webinar for International Students |
 Interested in moving to Dublin to earn Ireland’s top-ranked MBA? Based abroad, and not sure how that process would work for your situation? Mark your diary for 29 April at 3:00 p.m. Irish Summer Time, and come join UCD Smurfit Admissions and Careers managers, as well as a panel of current international MBA students, for the MBA Information Webinar for International Students. You can find more information, and register for the event, here. Hope to see you there! |
23 Apr 2021, 02:01
| FROM Smurfit MBA Blog: In Praise of Teamwork |
I’ve had the pleasure of working with two fantastic teams over the course of two trimesters. These are not hierarchical teams but flat teams. I consider them co-operatives: no-one’s opinion is worth more than another, everyone’s voice is valued, and they are based on trust.  A common view from a socially-distanced MBA I’ve never worked on teams like these before. I’ve learned to keep my mouth shut (or try to), and listen. I’ve learned to relinquish control. I’ve learned that leadership involves identifying where you can have the most impact, where you can help the team, and pursuing that. It’s not about ego and it’s not about control. It’s about what actions you can take that will have the best outcome for the group. Often that involves stepping back, recognising others’ talents and capabilities, knowing they are greater than your own. It involves stepping forward into the gaps as you see them appear. It’s about helping, and taking the initiative, and playing your part. It involves asking for help, identifying your own failings and being open about them. Having the strength to do that builds trust and camaraderie. It’s not that I’ve done all of the above–but I’ve observed others doing it, and I’ve been impressed. I appreciate it, and I’m grateful. I feel a depth of gratitude and loyalty to all I’ve worked with so far. Without a doubt, the experience of working with these teams, these people, is what will last longest from this MBA. That’s the transformative experience. Thinking back on this year, that’s what I will remember most. So thank you Jess, Naman, Nate, Caitlin, Sumit and Andrew! We’ve been through the trenches together. It’s been a challenging year. As I’ve considered it, in some respects it’s been about resilience. The MBA has developed this resilience, and a confidence to step into the unknown, to know it’s possible to reach out to those in the know, ask for help, and to learn. These are skills on their own and need to be developed. As such, I’ll leave the MBA ready for what comes next. My desire to learn has grown over the course of the year. I’ve learned a little bit about everything in the MBA, and seen how it all ties back together to one whole. As such it’s been a fascinating journey and has inspired further thought. Learning has developed into a habit, one I wish to continue. It’s now a key focus in my search for my next role. I want it to be a learning one. So with that in mind, to close, I’ll take the opportunity to say thank you to all my classmates, lecturers and coaches for the education. —John O’Sullivan, FTMBA Class of 2021 |
27 Apr 2021, 07:01
| FROM Smurfit MBA Blog: UCD Aspire Scholarship: Deadline 7 May |
Now more than ever, Ireland needs creative business leaders. If you’re considering an MBA (or a Business Masters) but feel held back by your financial circumstances, one of the Aspire scholarships–which cover up to 50% of the cost of a master’s degree at Smurfit–could be right for you. Right this way to the next step in your career! Since 2010, the impact of the Aspire Programme has been tremendous. Thanks to the donor’s generosity, many students have benefitted from financial support towards the cost of their tuition fees. Our Aspire graduates have excelled in their fields, and many have gone on to establish their own business ventures or are employed in leading companies such as Google, McKinsey, Citi, KPMG, PwC, Accenture, AIB, Paddy Power Betfair, Avolon, Microsoft, LinkedIn, and Facebook, among others. You can find more information on the benefits of the scholarship in this video, and learn about application procedures here. |
30 Apr 2021, 03:01
| FROM Smurfit MBA Blog: Unlearn with Naman |
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‘Do we know each other?’ read the title of the survey that I rolled out to the Full-Time MBA Class of 2021 at UCD Smurfit Business School. Surprisingly, ~80% of those who responded agreed that they have never had a conversation (at least once) with each one of their classmates! Blame it on COVID, due to which the cohort faced radical changes to the new way of education. With this came layers of challenges, one of which was the reduced depth in conversations. In an effort to lower the ~80% gap and increase engagement among colleagues, I decided to start ‘Unlearn with Naman’ video podcasts. Unlearn with Naman is a series of candid conversations with people from various backgrounds. In each episode, I unravel stories and interests to learn from people’s diverse experiences. It is a small initiative to help people from my class to get to know each other better.  Why did I decide to call it ‘Unlearn with Naman’? We all know the importance of learning but I firmly believe that unlearning plays an even bigger role in the life of an individual. Unlearning requires one to first question everything that they have assumed was ‘true’, in order to learn a new way of thinking and behaving. Coupled with the decision to pursue an MBA, COVID-19 brought one of the biggest changes for people enrolled in a B-School. To embrace the new ways of viewing the world and to re-shape life, most of us had to adapt to new beliefs and welcome the change. To understand my classmates’ motivations to take on this challenge, I felt that the podcast should centre around ‘unlearning’. Since the launch of my initiative, I have interviewed five profiles within the class. Below are the video features to date:  Conor Hyland has over 10 years of work experience, most of which has been spent working in the Middle East (Dubai). He has worked with companies such as LinkedIn, Microsoft, and Enterprise Ireland, amongst many others.  Jasmine Westbrooks hails from Chicago and is currently pursuing an MBA at UCD Smurfit. She has over 7 years of experience working in Finance and has been associated with Fortune 500 companies such as Abbott Laboratories and Constellation Brands–which, by the way, is the largest beer import company in the US.  Shashwat Acharya has over 7 years of experience during which he has worn many hats. He has worked at Mindtree Ltd, India’s leading IT and outsourcing company, and at ABInbev, the multinational drink and brewing giant. Shashwat also gone on to start his own company, Sababa Miteri, which is an eCommerce platform for maternity wear in India.  Nathan Jones has 6 years of experience working in the US during which he was associated with the American Psychological Association at Capitol Hill. He has also worked with two fast-paced startups including a project management education company and a benefits administration company which has been recently acquired by CVS Health, the largest pharmacy services provider in the US. In addition to this, Nate is a licensed cosmetologist. When he is not occupied with the burdensome MBA, he can be found writing songs on Budgets!  Noreen Mahmoud has over 7 years of experience in Architecture and Interior design. In her last role, she worked as a Senior Interior Architect with ECG Consultants, a legacy engineering consultancy firm in Egypt. Noreen’s work has been featured in an exhibition in Venice, Italy and she has also volunteered to help build a primary school in Kampala, Uganda. It has been just under a month since I started interviewing my classmates. I had my fair share of scepticisms before starting the series. Why wouldn’t I? I had never been remotely associated with video podcasting. Four weeks later, my channel has garnered 600+ impressions and a watch time of over 28 hours. Not only has the experience been rewarding, but also it has given me the chance to bridge cultural gaps by getting to understand people’s experiences better. Perhaps the biggest learning is that you will always be unsure – today or tomorrow. The best time to take a leap is now! So… what’s stopping you? —Naman Kumar, FTMBA Class of 2021 |
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Hi Generic [Bot],
Here are updates for you:
ANNOUNCEMENTS
 Wednesday, Apr 24, 2024 11:30am NY / 3:30pm London / 9pm Mumbai Watch earlier episodes of DI series below EP1: 6 Hardest Two-Part Analysis Questions EP2: 5 Hardest Graphical Interpretation Questions
Tuck at Dartmouth
AGSM at UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA RIVERSIDE
 GMAT Club REWARDS
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