Ellie Amirnasr
"The GEMBA program has not only enabled me to enhance my proficiency in business domains like strategy implementation, finance, and leadership, but has also broadened my comprehension of the complexity of international business. Exposure to real-world business challenges increased my confidence in decision-making. Learning from both successes and failures shaped my approach to problem-solving."
Global Executive MBA
Industry:
Prior Education:
NCSU
PhD, Fiber and Polymer Science
Reflections
I chose Fuqua for multiple reasons. It is one of the top schools and known internationally for its Global Executive MBA program. They have high-caliber faculty and with the emphasis on global perspective, there are many opportunities for collaboration with global enterprises.
In addition, the school is known for its leadership development initiatives and offers a strong alumni network and various networking opportunities—which can be crucial for post-MBA career advancement.
Each international residency served as validation for my decision. The program is designed in such a way to help students, the future leaders, understand the unique challenges of each region and consider that in their life-changing decisions. During intense 10-day periods where everyone sought to gain valuable experiences and be responsive to work matters while staying on top of schoolwork, the unparalleled support of my high-caliber classmates was invaluable.
Before Fuqua
As the director of digital ventures prior to starting on my GEMBA journey, I held the responsibility for leading the establishment of three corporate startups within a $4 billion global company. My role encompassed the entire business lifecycle, spanning from initial product development to seamless operational execution and comprehensive business development strategies. Despite the significant scope of responsibilities, the operations were conducted on a smaller scale and made it challenging for me to take a bigger step in my career as I wanted to.
After Fuqua
I am strategically positioning myself for a move into a senior leadership role with global responsibilities for a business unit, either within my current organization or elsewhere. Recognizing the potential challenges posed by the lack of a financial and business background, I see my GEMBA degree as a pivotal factor in transforming me into a stronger candidate for such influential positions. The program equips me with the comprehensive knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of global business, thereby enhancing my capabilities and bolstering my candidacy for leadership roles on an international scale.
5 Best Experiences in the GEMBA Program
- International residencies. Every city you visit is a gem. Don’t miss the city tour and team-building activities on the first days of residency—and enjoy the food.
- Diverse networking opportunities. Get to know the people in and outside your cohort. This MBA program has more to it than the classes offered. The friendships and connections made in this program are priceless.
- Learn from your peers. GEMBA Edge is a 15-30 min morning session before class that allows you to hear lessons learned and best practices from your classmates. I loved the sessions and I learned some good life hacks.
- Maximize your experience. Don’t miss out on options like Muay Thai sessions, morning Yoga, and 15-minute massages between classes; they are helpful to reduce the stress of the intense program.
- Make lifelong friends.