Learners Like No Other is a new series where real students and alumni share how online learning at ÐÇ¿ÕÓ°ÊÓis like no other university experience. .
Shawn Ang
Master of Business Administration ’18
📍 Edmonton, Alta.
Why was online learning at Athabasca University the right fit for you?
I was running a start up in Calgary and the travel between Edmonton and Calgary was quite intense. With all the travelling I was doing, being in class to learn was just not feasible at that point in time. ÐÇ¿ÕÓ°ÊÓMBA's program enabled me to be in Calgary or Edmonton or on the Red Arrow bus.
How has studying at ÐÇ¿ÕÓ°ÊÓhelped you achieve your goals (personal, professional, academic)?
Professionally, it provided a lot of strategies and actual opportunities to implement thoughts into action. The knowledge I acquired prepared me to take on new roles as they came along.
From a network perspective, AU’s MBA program helped me grow into industries that I would not have otherwise ventured. The interactions between cohort mates and classmates allowed different perspectives and ideas to cross geographical boundaries.
What obstacles have you had to overcome to pursue your education? How did you overcome them?
As I was a mature student with a wife and kid, I had typical financial obligations and had to overcome financial obstacles. Thinking back, I think I overcame these financial challenges one course at a time—I figured out what I could do and control at that point in time and kept moving on. ÐÇ¿ÕÓ°ÊÓstaff also provided guidance and help in many ways to help bridge gaps.
How do you balance your studies with other responsibilities like work or family?
I had a schedule that I worked to stay on. Eventually the schedule became a habit, and habit became a practice. The plan allowed for family time and study time. One of the biggest successes was a result of asking for support for the time I need to study. Both my spouse and boss at work fully supported time away to study and complete the MBA!
Who is your biggest cheerleader that helps you stay focused on your goals?
My spouse and my parents were huge supporters of continuing my education. My spouse specifically encouraged me to do the MBA in the first place, then supported me with everything else that I needed along the way. I couldn't have done it without her taking on more that she was able to handle.
What's your favourite course?
Strategic Management. Although very foundational, it helped shape the way I think about problems.
What are you plans for the future, after completing your ÐÇ¿ÕÓ°ÊÓprogram?
I was able to leverage the knowledge to grow and contribute within my organization and explore opportunities that need the knowledge. These connections also allow opportunities to impart knowledge to students through my part-time teaching roles at the University of Calgary and MacEwan University.
How is your ÐÇ¿ÕÓ°ÊÓeducation different than what you've experienced previously? (a.k.a. - How is ÐÇ¿ÕÓ°ÊÓlike no other?)
I would say that the ÐÇ¿ÕÓ°ÊÓpath is flexible yet rigorous. And the network of different perspectives allows me to grow an open mind to endless possibilities.
Share your story to win!
Click on our entry form to answer questions about your education journey and to share photos to accompany your submission. Writers of published submissions win an ÐÇ¿ÕÓ°ÊÓswag pack!