Golnaz Zilabi: Opportunities, Innovative Thinking, Building Resilience

 “I was amazed by the level of energy that I had when striving to achieve my goals. I embraced a flexible mindset and enjoyed collaborating with my classmate.  Being receptive to other point of views opened opportunities for innovative thinking. It all came down to being adaptable to my new lifestyle and including time-management strategies into daily routines. The outcome of my studies has been increased resilience and well-being.”

Golnaz Zilabi Class of 2019

Golnaz Zilabi, Portfolio Analyst at RBC Wealth Management Private Banking, was a member of “IRIS Cameras,” International Business class team that finished 1st place in the GLO-BUS simulation exercise conducted during IB Winter 2018.

In a recent virtual interview, Golnaz shared her thoughts on accepting the challenge of a robust academic journey and how her studies influenced her personal and career goals.

Golnaz Zilabi:

My reasons for pursuing MBA studies were both personal and work-related.  I recognized the MBA(FS) brand and Dalhousie’s prestigious reputation meant nationwide recognition of my credentials and an enhanced business and career standing within my profession. My position as senior account manager and extensive experience in the financial services industry provided an excellent foundation upon which to broaden my knowledge and strategic mindset.  I am curious and have an infinite interest and appetite for deeper learning that opens new possibilities and career opportunities that come when interacting within large business networks. I appreciate connecting with other finance professionals and executives.  Accepting an academic journey satisfied my innate need to explore new ideas and challenge myself to attain a greater understanding of our complex world.

There is no limit to what you can accomplish with an MBA(FS), given the variety of courses and material covered during the program.  Students are furnished with solid basis of business fundamentals, specifically in financial industry. The future promises astonishing changes within our work forces and job functions. Professors create learning environments that promote vibrant dialogues and inspire leadership qualities.  I always had a goal to take my career to a new direction and pursue opportunities and challenges which I had previously never encountered.

I viewed the MBA(FS) as an investment in myself with the aim of developing another versatile and valuable career path within my existing organization. My academic journey has influenced my career path even as it has transformed my personal outlook. I have developed my autonomy and strengthened my analytical skills and knowledge which I adhere in my day-to-day routines as a Portfolio Analyst. My management and communication skills have been heightened, adding personal credibility in my chosen career path.

As a Mother of two small children, I tackled the challenges of balancing my studies, career and spending quality time with my family. I received inspiration from my beloved husband and truly treasured his ongoing support and encouragement.  The flexibility of program was invaluable.  I appreciated how the Centre for Executive and Graduate Education tailored the courses to my individual needs and enabled me to develop a plan that fulfilled my commitments. I learned how to proactively prioritize and schedule my time. As soon as I figured out my rhythms, I was able to assign my times accordingly. I also considered my learning style and developed a model which worked for me most effectively. I used every resource available to me as a student and adapted to my new lifestyle.

I was amazed by the level of energy that I had when striving to achieve my goals. I embraced a flexible mindset and enjoyed collaborating with my classmate.  Being receptive to other point of views opened opportunities for innovative thinking. It all came down to being adaptable to my new lifestyle and including time-management strategies into daily routines.  The outcome of my studies has been increased resilience and well-being.

CEGE Connection is pleased to advise that Golnaz has graciously agreed to be a repeat contributor on CEGE Connection.