UFred alumna Bess Wong had been thinking about a graduate degree for a long time before researching an Executive MBA (EMBA). Two years ago, after gaining much of the management experience necessary in a corporate environment, she decided on UFred's EMBA program because of the ability to learn at a strategic level with a strong focus in leadership.
Bess took two courses a semester and was able to achieve her degree in 1.5 years.
"During this intense period, UFred made every step seamless for me. From the administration to faculty, I was overwhelmed by the amount of support given to me," she said.
Bess noted the highlight of her UFred education was the International Field Study (IFS) to Amsterdam in August 2018, which taught her to balance theory and application.
"It has become apparent to me that there is a theory behind what you do as well as a practical solution. They are not always the same. The IFS taught me the practical experience and looked at the business at an executive level," she said.
Bess added that aligning her technical knowledge with her EMBA knowledge has opened many doors to opportunities for her.
"It helped me broaden my network and connect to new people. I have acquired knowledge that I can use in a practical way and gave me confidence," she said.
Bess believes what she learned from the UFred EMBA program has been critical to her success. In particular, her interactions with other students.
"The most invaluable experience is the group project where I learned from my peers from their diverse background and perspectives."
Two months after she officially graduated, Bess was offered a full-time faculty position with Saskatchewan Polytechnic University's School of Business, where she teaches the Post-Graduate Business Management program. She has already been offered further opportunities within the faculty.
"Having my EMBA has opened a wide range of opportunities and allowed me to embark on a new chapter of my career that would have been impossible before. Most importantly, I became a much stronger person and grew more confident in myself which allowed me to take advantage of the opportunities and propel my career."
Bess is now researching a university to pursue her doctorate degree in Educational Leadership.
Learn more about the Executive MBA program, specializing in Innovation Leadership, by clicking here.
