Throughout the four years, I gained friendships that continue to inspire me to seek excellence and continue with life-long learning. I use social media to remain connected to many students and professors. I enjoy hearing about their successes. The MBA(FS) program had a huge impact on my life. This was a time of heightened learning, which continues to influence and reward my personal and career pathways.
Lana Catalano MBA(FS) Class of 2011
Lana Catalano MBA(FS) Class of 2011
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe once wrote: “The greatest thing in this world is not so much where we stand as in what direction we are moving.”
The human experience may be defined by the journeys we undertake during our lifetimes. The decision to engage in a rigorous academic program is not made lightly, for travelers know that the road ahead will demand their highest commitment to excellence. Even so, the rewards of knowledge, experience, and camaraderie are well worth the hard work and effort.
Lana Catalano MBA(FS) Class of 2011, is a champion of life-long learning and suggests that the MBA programs offered through the Centre for Advanced Management Education (CFAME) equip graduates with strategies to thrive in a highly competitive work environment.
Lana Catalano:
I recommend that anyone considering a MBA program, complete the necessary research prior to making the final decision and applying for enrollment.
Without doubt, it is a huge step and commitment to enroll in an MBA program as a mature student after years of working and involved within a less formal educational structure.
Participating in a MBA program had been my long-range goal. The challenge was finding the right time to begin. I knew that I would be adding study hours to my already busy schedule. I enjoyed my family time as well as the challenges of my career. There was definitely self doubt. Am I too old? Am I smart enough? Do I have the time? Can I juggle the demands of family, school and work? And, can I commit to this for a 4+ year term?
I sent away for information on different programs, local and distance learning, and explored an accounting degree as well as Executive MBA. What impressed me most about the MBA(FS) program was the flexibility and recognition of industry courses through the partnership with CSI and the CFP track. I appreciated the virtual component, which allowed individuals to study and complete assignments on their time as opposed to having to attend a certain class time-slot.
The courses were available in Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto, Halifax and throughout the summer which gave me the chance to map out a few options for a shorter or longer-term completion depending on how many courses taken per semester. I had the option to take the summer off or double up on courses in a particular semester.
The support I received throughout the program, especially at the beginning, helped in my decision process and in mapping out the degree program. I had the pleasure of attending intensives across the country in every city. The students and professors I met as I progressed through the courses, confirmed that I had made the right decision and gave me confidence that I would succeed.
Every student had a different story, background and experience which made the interactions and topics relevant and interesting. Group work was enhanced because of our individual course order, which was based on location, preference and knowledge base. Our diverse experiences gave insight as to what we could look forward to in future courses.
Throughout the four years, I gained friendships that continue to inspire me to seek excellence and continue with life-long learning. I use social media to remain connected to many students and professors. I enjoy hearing about their successes. The MBA(FS) program had a huge impact on my life. This was a time of heightened learning, which continues to influence and reward my personal and career pathways.
I am strong advocate and active promoter of the MBA(FS) program. For those who may have the goal to further their education, I recommend contacting the CFAME team and explore the options available through Dalhousie Centre for Advanced Management Education.