Tyler Saito MBA(FS) 2016
Tyler Saito, Regional Manager at Coast Capital Financial Management crossed the stage in 2016 to receive his MBA(FS). In a recent virtual interview with CFAME Connection, Tyler shared his thoughts on the idea of “Deeper Learning” as presented by Martine’s and Joyline’s award-winning research.
Tyler Saito:
I have discovered that learning never stops. Once I completed my MBA studies, my wife embarked on her masters. My children, who are seven and ten, are now convinced that everyone attends school for their entire lives. They have the right idea. Once we start on the learning path, the addiction to knowledge acquisition takes over. Life-long learning becomes embedded in everything we do. With the MBA(FS) program I experienced the “Deeper Learning” highlighted in Martine and Joyline’s research. I was able to implement the new learnings in my daily interactions. Everything was practical, applicable, and could be put to immediate use.
Why did I choose to enter an academically rigorous program? In 2011, my mom was diagnosed with terminal cancer. She went through the typical treatments but declined quickly and passed away in September of 2012. Her passing made me ponder my own existence and the choices I had made to date. I have always been motivated but this was a pivotal moment. It made me reflect on what I wanted my life and legacy to be about. I wanted to ensure that my own health, within what I could control, enabled me to live a long and healthy life. I set some personal and professional goals that included getting myself into physical shape.
I dropped about 60 pounds and completed three sprint triathlons in 2012 and 2013. At the same time, I researched institutions that provided MBA programs. A colleague advised me about the MBA(FS) offered by Dalhousie. I was impressed that Dalhousie would give credit for my existing financial designations towards their MBA(FS). In a comparison with local MBA programs I valued Dalhousie’s for the flexibility of their program and the ability to work with professionals with similar experiences. The content seemed exceptionally relevant to my situation. I was accepted in the fall of 2013
What are my next steps? Reconnecting with friends and family. They were an invaluable support and encouragement all through my years of study. As well, I am committed to utilizing and mastering what I have learned in my chosen career path with Coast Capital Financial Management, an organization that reflects my values and gives a purpose to work. I enjoy engaging in community endeavours and have used my Dal experience to coach little league fast-pitch and establish a communication strategy within this dedicated organization. Acquiring knowledge is only the beginning of a journey. Sharing knowledge sustains us on the road ahead.
Next Post: Panel Discussion on Deeper Learning