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Falling Sick & Dealing with Guilt

Written by Olubolade Olukoya · 1 min read >

Embarking on the challenging journey of an MBA program has been a rollercoaster of triumphs and unexpected hurdles, and this semester, a personal struggle unfolded that I hadn’t anticipated. Health issues, combined with an overwhelming sense of guilt over my inability to fully participate, cast a shadow over what would otherwise have been a routine work and school week for me. However, what transpired in the midst of these challenges was a testament to the incredible support from my group members (Up Group 3 AKA Team Dynamite AKA Team Success) and the compassionate guidance of our program manager (Ms Mbafan Kombol).

As the semester commenced with the familiar whirlwind of classes, group projects, and looming deadlines, my health took an unexpected nosedive. Doctor’s appointments, a barrage of medical tests, and my frustration with the intricacies of the Nigerian healthcare system left me grappling not only with physical ailments but also with a pervasive sense of guilt on not being able to participate fully. The necessity to miss a few classes weighed heavily on me, intensifying the internal struggle because I wanted to at least get perfect attendance as I still struggled with some courses like Data Analytics and Corporate Financial Accounting.

In the face of this personal crisis, my group members emerged as extraordinary pillars of support. The collaborative spirit that has always defined our group dynamics took on a new depth as they not only accommodated my limitations but also reassured me that my well-being was their top priority. Despite the guilt I felt for not shouldering my usual responsibilities, their willingness to take on additional tasks showcased a level of understanding and empathy that transcended the boundaries of mere academic collaboration.

The true essence of teamwork illuminated our path during this challenging period. My group members proactively urged me to prioritize self-care, transforming my guilt into an acknowledgment of shared responsibility and mutual understanding. Their collective effort became a wellspring of motivation, reminding me that, in our group, support extended far beyond the confines of project deadlines and academic obligations.

Equally crucial in navigating this trying time was the pivotal role played by our program manager. I reached out to her and she was able to recognizing the internal struggle I was facing and called me to discuss my situation. This compassionate gesture not only provided reassurance but also underscored the program’s commitment to the holistic well-being of its students.

In conclusion, grappling with the guilt of non-participation during this semester of my MBA program was an unexpected challenge that brought to light the significance of a truly supportive community. The unwavering assistance from my group members and the empathetic guidance from our program manager not only helped me surmount academic hurdles but also reaffirmed the intrinsic value of a program that prioritizes the well-being and individual struggles of its students. As I reflect on this chapter of my MBA journey, it is with deep gratitude for the resilience, understanding, and genuine camaraderie that defined this unexpectedly transformative semester. #MMBA5

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