EMBA 27 The pressure of the work

We are now on week 8 and the going is getting tougher by the day. On the one hand, it is clear that the Executive MBA course is very demanding but on the other hand, I think I just need to get used to it. Before signing up for this course, I had done the Agribusiness Management Programme at LBS. That course was a walk in the park compared to this. The pace of the course was steady. There were hardly any assignments, and the general energy was jovial. The EMBA 27 is actually quite a lot of fun during the classes but the personal study is where the stress really kicks in.

Before the start of the course, we had a brush-up week. This was usually between 6 and 9 pm on weekdays. That didn’t bother me too much because I was really excited to get going. Little did I know the facilitators were warming us for what was to come. Week 1 and week 2 were not too bad either. The assignments were manageable and our group was able to stay on top of things. As the weeks went on, the workload increased. Initially, I didn’t pay it any mind to start. But when we got to the intensive week, the workload hit me hard.

Honestly, I am not one to complain. At least now I have a much better idea of what I got myself into. This course is supposed to be challenging. If it was not, everyone would do it. One thing I am greatful for is that I don’t have a wife and kids to take care of when I get back home. Don’t get me wrong, I do have a lot of other commitments that I had to give up since I started the course but they don’t compare with potential marital problems.

There is a saying that goes, ‘when life gives you lemons, make lemonade’. My decision is to make the most of this MBA and pass in flying colours. It is also going to be a strategy of mine to have fun while embarking on this journey. The facilitators help with that. Most of them know how to take a joke, make jokes at their own expense, and they generally do not take themselves too seriously. This is something that puts a smile on my face and makes the workload a lot more bearable.

To be honest, when I think back on the Agribusiness course I did at LBS, I realize it was just a side program. This EMBA course is actually a full degree program from one of the best schools in Nigeria, let alone the entire world. I will not complain about the work that I have to do and I will make sure I will get as much out of this course as I can. This includes becoming a much better business manager, networking with thought leaders and businesspeople at the highest levels of Nigerian society, and being part of a well-respected alumni network.