Mary Tsai-Corindia: On the Merits of CEGE’s MBA Program

“I made the most of my experience in the program and ended with great friends, a strong professional network, and the confidence to take on more challenges”.

Mary Tsai-Corindia, MBA(L), Class of 2021

 

Mary Tsai-Cordina is a recent MBA, Leadership Alumna. After the three plus years to complete her degree, Mary now has more time to take on new challenges.

The sentiment often heard from graduates is despite the time commitment to complete the program, the benefits are immeasurable.

Mary shared with CEGE Connection her favourite moments in the program, her thoughts on feedback, and what she gained from the MBA experience.

 

 

Mary Tsai-Corindia

The Dalhousie MBA program offers a wide span of topics and faculty with real-world experience.  The Blended Online program was appealing to me compared to traditional MBA programs as I was able to move across provinces and continue in the program with minimal impact.  I made the most of my experience in the program and ended with great friends, a strong professional network, and the confidence to take on more challenges.

Favourite moments in the MBA: 

1. Working with different people on various projects and getting the chance to learn from them and network.  A few of us were able to start smaller social groups on WhatsApp and share experiences, encourage each other while in the same class, share ideas and discuss questions.
2. I really enjoyed some of the projects and case studies, which broadened my horizons a lot (which is great because now I feel wiser and not just older)!
3. The intensives in Halifax during the summer terms were great, those were my mini vacations. Time management is key of course. I don’t have kids, but I’d imagine it is much tougher for those with little kids or are expecting, buying/moving into or building a new house. I made a schedule for myself to do a little bit of reading/writing assignments each night (just wish I had the same diligence towards exercising).

Sharing thoughts on feedback:

Feedback can always be a motivating factor.  One thing I’ve definitely learned throughout this program is that the phrase “if its not broken, don’t fix it” no longer applies.  We should always be open to change, which is easier said than done.  At minimum, we should be open to suggestions. I also enjoy observing others and try to absorb their best attributes to see how I can apply these findings to my own life, whether personally or professionally.

Another inspiration to learn from is the passion in which the faculty bring to the various topics. Most Professors in this program are very passionate about what they teach.  The faculty and staff always made themselves available and provided the help and support I needed throughout the program. The program provided me with the opportunity to expand my knowledge, fine tune my leadership skills and help me become a better global citizen.