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"When I was researching different MBA programs, what differentiated SFU’s program from the others was its focus on experiential learning and the greater emphasis the institution places on choosing a diverse and inclusive cohort."
Maira Kamal
Business Administration master's student in the Beedie School of Business
Hi! I’m Maira, a Strategic Planning and Growth professional from Pakistan, currently pursuing my MBA at the Beedie School of Business. Since graduating from LUMS Pakistan in 2016 with an undergraduate degree in Accounting & Finance, I have been working in the digital space as a Product Manager in different companies in the Ecommerce, Telecom and Fintech sectors.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO COME TO SFU?
When I was researching different MBA programs, what differentiated SFU’s program from the others was its focus on experiential learning and the greater emphasis the institution places on choosing a diverse and inclusive cohort. Having already completed my undergraduate degree in Business, learning from my multicultural peers was a priority which is why SFU was a clear choice for me. Living and studying in a thriving tech hub such as Vancouver, which is now being recognized as the new Silicon Valley of the west coast was just the icing on the cake!
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR RESEARCH OR YOUR PROGRAM TO A FAMILY MEMBER?
The MBA program equips you with a birds eye view of the business world that is essential for success in today’s rapidly changing environment. As a part of this program we are able to hone our leadership, negotiation and analytical skills so that we learn how to manage people efficiently and empathetically once we find ourselves in a managerial position.
WHAT ARE YOU PARTICULARLY ENJOYING ABOUT YOUR STUDIES/RESEARCH AT SFU?
My favorite aspect of the MBA program is how it has exposed me to multiple aspects of business without constraining me to a particular career path. The knowledge I am gaining every day is providing me with a macro understanding of the business world which will prove to be extremely beneficial for me in the long run.
HAVE YOU BEEN THE RECIPIENT OF ANY MAJOR OR DONOR-FUNDED AWARDS? IF SO, PLEASE TELL US WHICH ONES AND A LITTLE ABOUT HOW THE AWARDS HAVE IMPACTED YOUR STUDIES AND/OR RESEARCH.
I am greatly humbled to have received the HSBC Graduate Award in Business as well as the Scotiabank Award in Business. These awards have had a major impact on my life as they have given me the liberty to concentrate on the program wholeheartedly, rather than worry about the financial implications. As a recipient of these awards, I intend to give back to the community by focusing on initiatives that I am extremely passionate about such as empowering women in the tech space.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR PROGRAM/POSTDOC POSITION TO SOMEONE STILL SEARCHING FOR A PROGRAM OR POSTDOC POSITION?
What sets the MBA program apart from other programs is its focus on providing each student with a wide breadth of knowledge, rather than depth. When people ask me what value an MBA will add to their skill set, I always say that you can hire experts to help you out with something specialized, but good managers are irreplaceable. This is why the MBA program is renowned for its ability to nurture future business leaders for organizations.
Contact : mka193@sfu.ca