I wanted to advance my career in the health care industry, so I decided that pursuing my MBA would allow me to increase my management skill set with a solid educational foundation to complement my previous work experience.

After researching a number of schools, it was clear that UB was the top choice for executive-level education. The EMBA program allowed me to pursue my degree with other professionals with the same level of experience in their fields.

One of my biggest concerns was returning to a college setting after being out for more than 10 years.

Time management and organization are key to balancing responsibilities during the program. You need to realize that not everything is a priority.

I used every aspect of my support network — from enlisting work colleagues to help critique my papers to asking my family to keep the noise down in the house on the weekend while I studied.

I have grown both professionally and personally. I have gained confidence when making decisions, and my thought process is now well-defined instead of short and instinctive.

I have learned to take a moment to evaluate a situation and understand the variables before jumping in. Self-awareness has become key.

There is never an ideal time to pursue an advanced degree when you’re a working professional, but when you realize that you want to take that next step to advance your career and remain competitive, there is no looking back.

I have transitioned from being a clinician and manager to overseeing a quality department. My role, responsibilities and thinking needed to change completely. The EMBA program provided me with the skills to make that transformation smoothly.

Every individual has a unique way of performing in the workplace, with a distinct motivation and thought process. I never completely understood that until I completed the leadership portion of the program. I became familiar with what derails me and learned to adjust my interactions during a meeting or conversation based on the situation.