Experiences in the Executive MBA Program

As of today, we are now half way through this quarter and half way through the program.  How does it feel?  What is your thoughts on writing cases?

All the classes this quarter are using case analysis.  This kind of work is new to me.  My undergrad is in Engineering so I am used to doing more problem based homework such as calculus and physics, where there are rigtht and wrong answers.  With case analysis however, we have to read a case, and then give an analysis on the case.  So there is no right or wrong answer as long as you use the material in the texts and learned in class to defend your recommendations.  

I had a real hard time writing my first case analysis, but the more I do the easier they become.  I also like it because I can use my own experiences and point of view to come up with a unique solution to the problems that the company in the case is having.  My group meets once a week to go over the cases that are assigned for the following week.  We usually discuss what we think the problems are and possible courses of action the company should take to address these problems.  I was surprised at the different points of view that my teammates have on these same issues.  It lets me look at the case from a different point of view.  Sometimes I even change my opinion of what to do in the case based on my teammates points of views.  In class we discuss the cases and even more points of views are discussed. 

I really like discussing the cases in class, but I don’t like writing the analysis at all.  I don’t think that I have ever written a paper longer than 4 pages, and these analysis are so in depth that it sometimes takes 10 to 14 pages to write them.  I have been utilizing the writing coach that is provided with the program and it makes this much easier and I’m even starting to become a better writer. 

I better get back to writing my cases, I’m going to hand in 5 this week!!!!  I miss TV.

I have been thinking about ways that EMBA class XVI could start to give back to the community.  I looked at several non-profit organizations and found one that hit close to home for me, the YWCA of Rochester and Monroe County.  (more…)

This weekends class seemed to go by pretty quick.  We had to hand in a couple of papers and my team was also involved in two presentations.  I also liked that we had garbage plates for lunch.  A couple of people requested them and there they were!  I even liked the meaty hot sauce so much that I was thinking about putting some in a cup so that I could (more…)

A bunch of us went out to unwind and get some food after class on Friday and had some good times.  It was a pretty good turnout and we had almost 40% of the class come.  It is good to get to know some of my classmates in a non class atmosphere and I am really starting to form some close friendships with a lot of these people.   Next week will probably go to MacGregors so come out and have some fun with your classmates!  I hope to see all of you there!