Today, as a 75th Anniversary Scholar in Booth’s Executive MBA Program London, she’s applying lessons from class to her role as chief of staff for an independent multifamily office.
When I left university I went straight into the military. I had an absolutely fantastic few years in the Royal Air Force and left in 2020 to start a new career in the private sector, at Bain & Company. But while I had leadership and management experience, I realized how important it was to have an in-depth understanding of business and economics. That’s what attracted me to an MBA.
First, it’s an outstanding institution at the forefront of business studies and economics, and I think it’s massively important to be part of an institution that is really pushing the boundaries of knowledge. Second, the Executive MBA Program is based internationally, so the student cohort is phenomenal. Our European cohort has more than 30 countries represented, which makes for really interesting discussions and cultural insights. Sitting in a classroom with these fantastic people is really inspiring. Finally, another factor was the academic rigor that Booth is famous for. I wanted to be challenged. I wanted to be stretched so that I could leave the course ready to start the next chapter.
Since the moment I connected with the university, everyone I’ve met has been incredibly supportive, kind, and helpful. Whether it’s the recruitment team, the alumni and students, or the academic staff, everyone obviously loves Booth.
I’ve also found it to be really inclusive. Everyone is so different, but there’s a commonality around what it means to be a Boothie. Coming from a military background where it’s all about the team and identity and esprit de corps, I immediately felt an affinity with Boothies because they spoke about their time at Booth in the same way. There is that same kind of connection for life.
I feel incredibly lucky and grateful. It’s a life-changing opportunity for me. And the fact that it’s sponsored by alumni makes it even more special.
Our cohort bonded even faster than I expected. It is an absolute joy that even when you’re under pressure and you’ve got lots of deadlines and everyone’s a bit nervous, everyone gets together and helps each other out.
My first child is due imminently, so the whole time I’ve been taking this course, I’ve also been going through that massive milestone in my life. And I have felt nothing but support from the university and my fellow students.
Do your research. Speak to as many people as you can: current students, alumni, people who are in your industry, and also people who aren’t. And be really clear about what you want to achieve from an EMBA. Why are you there? And think about whether what you are seeing and hearing is aligned with that. Other than that, just do it!