The Graduate School Experience

Transcript

Next up, we have Anitaka who took a winding path to get from her home in Washington State to the masters of business administration program here at St Mary’s. But she has made it here, in fact, perseverance is a big part of her story and the success she has found at St. Mary’s. Let’s hear your graduate school experience Anitaka. Can’t wait to hear this. Take it away.

– Thank you for the intro, Alex. After high school, I played collegiate volleyball in Florida before moving to San Antonio with my newborn to attend a large public university. After graduation, I started working as an accountant but I wanted to make a career change, so I decided to pursue my master’s degree at St. Mary’s University. I enrolled in the St Mary’s MBA for professionals program because it was affordable while providing a flexible class schedule. I could work full time, spend time with my family, coach volleyball and take classes in the evenings, all without feeling overwhelmed. Starting the program took me two tries. The first time I logged onto the discussion platform and I saw a post from a fellow student. It was a full body essay to one discussion post. I was unsure I could do it and withdrew from all my classes that same day. When the COVID pandemic hit a year later I decided it was time to give it another shot and I am so glad I did. I’m extremely grateful for the MBA programs director. He let me know about the national black MBA conference held every year throughout the US, an amazing learning and networking opportunity that led to a full-time position with a large bank as an operational analyst. Had it not been for the director’s interest in me and my goals, I would still be unhappy as an accountant. My experience at St Mary’s University has taught me to never give up and to overcome adversity even when you think the odds are against you. I want to set a new standard for women of color, especially those with children to continue to strive for goals. Thanks to St. Mary’s University I’ll be able to accomplish more than I could have ever imagined as a little girl. And that’s my story, back to you Alex

– What a powerful and simply awesome story Anitaka. You are certainly a role model for people looking to find life balance while pursuing a fulfilling and successful career. It sounds like the personal attention from MBA faculty has been a game changer for you. Thanks again for sharing your story. Take care.