Why Hofstra’s EMBA?
Choosing Hofstra’s Executive MBA program was a pivotal decision made amidst a backdrop of service and leadership. In 2013 while serving as a combat advisor to the 203rd Afghan Army Corps in Afghanistan, I sought a program that would facilitate my transition from a rigorous military career to the civilian sector. My eldest son's enrollment at Hofstra, pursuing his bachelor’s in business administration, further influenced my decision, as I saw it as an opportunity to not only advance my professional skills but also to forge stronger familial bonds during our shared educational journeys.
Hofstra’s EMBA program stood out to me for its flexible structure, which was perfectly suited to my commitments in the Army, allowing me to balance a demanding job with comprehensive academic pursuits. The program promised—and delivered—a challenging yet practical curriculum that honed my strategic thinking and business acumen, equipping me with the tools necessary to navigate and excel in complex, post-military professional landscapes. The decision to attend Hofstra was not just about education; it was about investing in a future where personal development and family connections could coalesce.
What part of the EMBA program did you find the most engaging?
The most engaging aspect of Hofstra's EMBA program was the immersive and interactive nature of the learning experience. The faculty were not just educators; they were mentors deeply invested in our personal and professional growth. Each interaction with the professors went beyond the confines of a traditional student-teacher dynamic, fostering a mentor-mentee relationship that was pivotal in my development.
The curriculum was meticulously designed to be both informative and practical. It encouraged not just learning but also real-world application. The case studies, an integral component of the program, were particularly stimulating. They compelled us to step into the mindset of business leaders, applying our newfound knowledge to make critical decisions. This hands-on approach transformed theoretical knowledge into practical wisdom, equipping us with the confidence to handle real business challenges.
Furthermore, the cohort model of the program provided a collaborative learning environment that enriched the educational experience. Regular study sessions with peers from varied professional backgrounds expanded my perspective. The diversity within our group meant that each case study was approached with a multifaceted view, allowing for a richer understanding and a more comprehensive learning outcome. This synergy of shared knowledge and collective insight made the EMBA program at Hofstra not just engaging but also profoundly transformative.
What was the best part of your experience?
The pinnacle of my experience in Hofstra's EMBA program was undoubtedly the International practicum trip to China. This venture transcended the traditional academic setting and brought together students from the EMBA and online MBA programs, fostering an environment of diverse perspectives and shared learning.
Traveling through China's economic powerhouses, we gained invaluable insights into the intricacies of manufacturing and the nuances of the government's joint venture model. It was a front-line exposure that books and lectures simply cannot replicate. The opportunity to interact directly with businesses operating in such a dynamic landscape was eye-opening and offered a real-time understanding of international business operations.
Beyond professional learning, the trip was culturally enriching. Visiting historical landmarks in Shanghai, Beijing, and Xian provided us with a profound appreciation for China's rich heritage and it’s role in shaping the modern business world. The synthesis of educational growth and cultural exploration was exceptional, making the international trip a defining feature of my EMBA journey at Hofstra. It was a holistic experience that combined academic rigor with global awareness, and it remains a high point of not just my academic career but also my personal development.
How has the program helped you in your career trajectory and/or to work toward your career goals?
The EMBA program at Hofstra was instrumental in bridging the gap between my military service and my aspirations in the financial sector. It provided me with a platform to refine my goals and map out a path to achieve them. One of the most influential experiences was the personalized mentorship from a professor who went beyond the curriculum to support my ambitions. His willingness to allow me to audit additional Finance courses gave me a broader and more nuanced understanding of the field.
This professor, who became a mentor and a good friend, was also pivotal in securing a grant from the CFA society for me. This grant not only covered the costs of books and online coursework but also gave me access to weekly CFA classes, which were crucial in preparing me for the certification. His guidance did not stop there; he presented me with an extraordinary opportunity to be a contributing author to the book "Debt Markets and Investments." This publication not only enriched my knowledge but also distinguished me in the competitive job market.
The practical skills, academic knowledge, and networking opportunities I gained from Hofstra's EMBA program have been vital in my transition to the finance industry. The program has not only helped me align my military leadership skills with business acumen but also ensured that I stand out as a candidate with a unique blend of experience, education, and proactive engagement.
Anything else you’d like to add?
Reflecting on my time at Hofstra's Executive MBA program, it's clear that if I were to make the decision over, I would unequivocally choose Hofstra again. One of the most invaluable resources I had access to was the Martin B. Greenberg Trading Room. This state-of-the-art facility offered workstations equipped with the latest financial software and databases, including Bloomberg Professional software, MATLAB & Financial Toolboxes, SAS, SPSS, STATA, WRDS - Wharton Research Data Services. These tools were more than just academic resources; they were extensions of the classroom, allowing me to apply real-world data and cutting-edge technology to what I was learning in lectures. My proficiency with these tools was enhanced by obtaining Bloomberg Essentials certification, a process that culminated in a rewarding ceremony at the Bloomberg headquarters in Manhattan with fellow students. The program's integration of practical financial tools directly into our curriculum truly bridged the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical financial acumen.
During my first year, I embraced the opportunity to work with the Graduate Business Career Relations, whose invaluable guidance was key in my transition from the military to the civilian sector. Their support went beyond traditional career services; they offered a psychometric assessment that revealed career paths aligning with my strengths and aspirations. Their dedicated assistance in networking, resume building, and job searching played a crucial role in opening doors to new possibilities.
The program's comprehensive approach, combining rigorous academic training with practical career development tools, has been instrumental in my post-military career success. The insights gained, relationships forged, and the hands-on experiences I encountered are the cornerstones upon which I've built my civilian career, and I am deeply grateful for the solid foundation laid by Hofstra's EMBA program.
