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"After completing the program, and advancing to a Chief Financial Officer role a little over a year later, I finally realize that your reach is only limited by your will."Mark Bigras CFO, Wanho Manufacturing, LLC Cheshire, CT Online Executive MBA, Class of 2018 |
Why did you choose the Executive MBA program?
RIT’s online EMBA program is noted as one of the top programs in the country. I compared the courses offered against other top schools, and found that RIT’s focus on leadership, business and finance lined up perfectly with my own career aspirations.
How has your education helped your career?
I recently transitioned from Controller to Chief Financial Officer within a new organization. RIT’s EMBA program provided the confidence needed to pursue this next level role, as well as the tools to execute on the opportunity; not to mention the added attention my resume received once published with RIT’s EMBA degree.
What has been the biggest takeaway from your experience?
I grew up on a farm in Canada through my teen years in a blue collar, hardworking family. At one point in my life, a Bachelor’s degree seemed unattainable. Even after earning a Bachelor’s degree and advancing in my career to Controller at a relatively young age, I still felt that an MBA degree might be out of my reach. Despite that hesitation, I was committed to achieving my career goals and was convinced this course was part of the process. I found lifelong friends in my MBA group, and built-up confidence as I completed course after course throughout the program. After completing the program, and advancing to a Chief Financial Officer role a little over a year later, I finally realize that your reach is only limited by your will.
My biggest takeaway from my experience in life in general, is how much can be achieved simply by trying. Maybe you won’t make the team…but try out! Maybe your college application will be denied…but apply! Maybe you won’t get that promotion…but apply for it! Don’t just chase your dreams; take actions that will help you turn your dreams into your reality.
What is your best piece of advice?
Try, and in the process, be comfortable with your strengths and weaknesses. That self-awareness will help you exude confidence when addressing your weaknesses, which will create trust as you highlight your strengths.
If you had to do it all over again, would you?
Without hesitation. The program is challenging, as you’d expect, but completing it has been one of my greatest professional achievements thus far.