The Journey Begins: My MBA Journey From Day One MEMBA12
As I climbed the short steps to the entrance of the Lagos Business School, and went through the security door, I could not help but be excited. I could feel my heart beating in wild anticipation. The decision to go back to school for an MBA twenty- four years after I had graduated was not an easy one, but it had been long in the making. It was now or never. Now was the time to open new career possibilities by broadening my knowledge and enhancing my knowledge. It was also time to build a new network of likeminded professionals. I knew it was not going to be a walk in the park, the entrance examination made it quite clear. The pre-module seminars also showed me what I was up against. I know this journey will be filled with challenges and opportunities; it will also give me the tools and insights needed to make more impact in my professional world. I am about to find out what I am truly made of. I am starting a transformative journey.
I walked into the classroom and was immediately impressed with the facilities. A huge wowbii board hugged the centre stage and there were three other large screen televisions placed strategically around the room. The wifi identification and password was conspicuously displayed. I greeted my colleagues enthusiastically and introduced myself. There were quite a few students that were resident outside Lagos. The air buzzed with excitement and anticipation. We were a diverse group of people from different backgrounds with different life experiences. The rules and regulations of the school are quite strict. We are not allowed to go to use the washroom during a lecture, if you do, you cannot come back into the class. Phones are to be kept away from your view during class. Only water and sweets can be consumed in class.
While it’s still early days, I have already experienced some challenges. The fine art of balancing work, study and personal life must be mastered with effective time management and prioritisation. The course work is rigorous, intense and demanding. Working with a group of people is a lesson in patience ,amenability and perseverance. At my very first group meeting, one of my group members walked out on us to protest ‘the way’ she was spoken to. Some group members are also too busy to make any contribution and have quickly demonstrated that they are reliable.
My expectations from the course and myself are very high. I hope to gain an in-depth understanding of various aspects of business, from marketing to human resources and strategy. Problem solving, decision making, communication and how to work in a team are a few of the skills that I look forward to learning. I will make meaningful connections and friendships that will extend beyond the classroom. I know that there will be highs and lows, but these two years will stretch me in ways that I cannot imagine. I am determined to make the most of this opportunity. I am committed to embracing whole heartedly every single challenge.
