Trepidation, excitement, and that indescribable feeling you have only when a new journey is just beginning – these were some of the things whirling around as I stepped over the threshold that first morning. Entering a room of people who would undoubtedly be a big part of my life for the next two years. And embarking upon a new phase of my career which I had worked so hard to make happen. But let’s rewind a bit first…
Why have I chosen to take a break from my career to pursue MBA studies?
For me, the decision to step away from a career I enjoyed was not an easy one. I could see a good progression path ahead of me at my company, and I had a varied and rewarding role. But that didn’t stop the feeling of wanting to challenge myself – to see what I am capable of, to step outside my comfort zone, to find out what else might be out there for me. I had long wanted to make a change, not just for myself, but to contribute in the best way possible to the world around me.
And so I started the search for the right program and city to make this a reality.
There is no doubt that McGill has a reputation for quality. And this was confirmed when I started mentioning possible programs to my former colleagues and network – everyone agreed that McGill’s reputation for excellence has a wide reach. This renown, together with the consistent performance in league tables of the Desautels MBA, was the initial draw. But once I made contact with the admissions team and alumni community, I also discovered a culture which engenders creativity, collaboration and an environment which brings out the best in students. The relatively small class size, emphasis on real-world career preparation and extra-curricular activities really set the program apart.
And that brings us back to that room, on that first day.
Absolutely, there is an overload of information and so many new faces to become familiar with in the first couple of weeks of the program. But more than anything, it has been fantastic to get started on this new adventure. The relationships we have already built among the class mean that we all have a great support network – be it for tackling assignments or exploring this beautiful city. We are all in it together! Looking forward, I can’t wait to see what’s in store for the class of 2019 – the challenge of new subjects to learn, the fun we will continue to have, and the career directions we will choose to pursue.
But already I am sure of one thing – I’ll be making memories to last a lifetime.
About the author
Tegan Boaler was born near London, UK, and holds a First Class BA Hons. in English Literature from the University of Exeter as well as a Diploma in Marketing Communications (awarded by the Chartered Institute of Marketing). Before commencing her MBA studies, Tegan worked for 10 years in technology marketing and communications roles, specializing in corporate communications. She has now just started her MBA at McGill Desautels.
Desautels MBA Program
- Find out how Desautels’ small-size cohort creates unique opportunities by contacting our Student Ambassadors.
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