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CAREER OPTIONS CAREEROPTIONSMAGAZINE.COM/MBA FALL 2014

SPECIALIZATION GIVES YOU AN MBA EDGE

17 CAREER TURNING

POINT: LEARNING A NEW LANGUAGE

22 CONSIDER JOINING A PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION

Helping students find the MBA program and post-MBA career that is right for them.

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CAREER OPTIONS FALL 2014

4 12 ARE YOU READY FOR CLICK YOUR WAY BUSINESS WITHOUT BORDERS?

By Marc Cousineau

TO AN MBA: Online Degrees and WorkLife Balance By Vanessa King

9 UPWARD MOBILITY: 17 CAREER TURNING

Tips to take your MBA application to the top of the pile

Focus on Your Career Vertical By Sabina Wex

POINT: Learning a New Language By William Johnson

19 ACE YOUR MBA

APPLICATION: Tips, Strategies and Practices for Your Best Presentation By Sarah Whittaker

22 SUCCESS BY

ASSOCIATION: Why Joining a Professional Association Can Help Your Career By Marc Cousineau

What “face time” with your MBA instructor looks like in 2014

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The MBA Tour

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Thompson Rivers University

Trinity Western University

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Wilfrid Laurier University

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CA REEROP TI O N SMAGA ZIN E.COM /M BA

By Marc Cousineau

ARE YOU READY FOR

BUSINESS WITHOUT BORDERS?

hantel Pauley’s office in Saskatoon is a long way from Brazil. This isn’t only true of the geographical difference between the two places, but the cultural distance as well.

Saskatoon conjures up images of snow blowing across prairie landscape or a river snaking through a bustling city, depending on whether you’re withstanding winter or enjoying summer. On the other hand, when someone mentions Brazil, tropical rainforests and huge metropolises overlooking the ocean come to mind—at least that’s the picture you get from travel brochures and Google searches. Pauley, however, is at home in both places, despite the 9,000 kilometres that separate them. That’s because her quest for a Master of Business Administration (MBA) took her on a cross-continental journey from her home and native land of Canada to the classrooms and boardrooms of Brazil. Pauley, a graduate of the Schulich School of Business’s International MBA program at York University, says her semester studying in Brazil gave her an edge in her job as an industrial account executive at Imperial Oil. “With globalization, borders are becoming obsolete to a certain extent. I think it’s definitely attractive to companies to see someone who is okay with working cross-culturally,” says Pauley, adding that this could mean traveling to complete projects or negotiating with suppliers located half a world away from a desk in Canada. “Even when I walk into my head office, I see a lot of people from different countries. It’s about valuing diversity and looking at things from a variety of different perspectives.”

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GLOBAL CHALLENGES… However, there are times where the benefits of studying abroad for an MBA can be obscured by unique challenges. In fact, if there was a job posting for international MBA programs, it might look something like this: Our ideal candidate is interested in business, is bilingual and doesn’t mind moving to a foreign country without their family and friends, a residence, or a culture they’re used to. Pauley was introduced to these challenges as soon as she stepped onto Brazilian soil for her study term. “It was difficult at first because I didn’t speak Portuguese,” says Pauley, who speaks Spanish, thanks to previous exchanges and work terms in Mexico, Nicaragua and Ecuador. “It was challenging to try to speak broken Portuguese… but I eventually found a place to live, got set up and made some friends.” Navigating the language can often turn into navigating the politics of group work when traveling abroad to study for an MBA. Pauley knows this first-hand. “I remember working with one group in particular where there were eight people and every single one of us was from a different country,” she says. “You get a lot of different personalities and ways of doing business… so you have to sit back and listen and look at the situation, asking yourself how you can approach the issue from a different perspective depending on where others are coming from because of their cultural backgrounds.”

“Companies… like the idea of someone who can thrive in challenging environments. They know that you’re not scared to take on new projects and be in unchartered waters.”

Not everyone’s experience of studying for their MBA in a foreign land is as positive as Pauley’s, says Phanindra Deonandan, assistant director of internship at Schulich. However, a negative experience abroad doesn’t mean it was a waste, she says. “There are some who don’t enjoy their time abroad… but this can help those students realize that this isn’t the path they want to go down for their career, and that’s beneficial too,” says Deonandan.

If it’s a job they’re after, MBA students who go abroad to complete a work or study term get a double dose of allure to add to their resumé, says Campbell. “It gives students an opportunity to get a degree that is recognized by Canadian companies, but also gives them an international perspective, not only on language, but on how business is actually done in different cultures.”

…NEED GLOBAL EXPERIENCE The decision to go abroad to pursue an MBA is not one to be taken lightly. It takes a lot of research into the cultural nuances of both school and business to be successful in another country, says Pauley. “Studying abroad gives you that perspective that you have to do your research if you’re going to be working with someone from another country, because you don’t want to accidently offend them,” she says. “For example, in many Latin American countries, if I have a meeting with someone, I’ll ask them how their day is going or how their family is. It’s really important to talk about those things, because if you jump right into business… it’s seen as rude.”

Students from the Schulich International MBA program visited a total of 13 countries in 2014 to complete a work-term semester, up from 12 the year before, says program director Alexandra Campbell. The countries range from close to home (the U.S.) to halfway around the world (Bangladesh).

While it’s crucial to equip yourself with practical knowledge before traveling for your MBA, it’s just as essential to invest in some self-reflection, says Pauley. “A big thing is knowing yourself,” she says, “knowing your own cultural biases and being aware of them. Learn to value diversity… because when you go abroad, you’re immersed in a culture that’s not your own. It’s not like traveling, because

Campbell says that there has been increased interest among students to work and study in Asian countries. FAL L 2014

“Companies… like the idea of someone who can thrive in challenging environments,” says Pauley. “They know that you’re not scared to take on new projects and be in unchartered waters because you’re comfortable with that sort of situation and you’ve been in that situation more than once.”

“They’re the fastest growing economies,” she says, “and the interest is partly due to the job opportunities that are available there.”

Pauley isn’t alone in her experiences. More and more students are choosing to pursue their MBA in another country, spending as little as a semester and as much as two years abroad.

Potential employers don’t only look at the degree in your hands, but also the degree of difficulty in achieving that accomplishment. This is where studying abroad has its merits.

CA REEROP TI O N SMAGA ZIN E.COM /M BA

you’re on your own and you have school projects and probably roommates from other countries.” There is only so much you can prepare for when you go abroad, says Deonandan, and some of challenges can come out of nowhere.

went abroad and didn’t necessarily like the experience and that’s because you need to be able to step outside of your comfort zone, explore the culture, eat the food, taste the wine and make new friends.” The triumphs outweigh the trials of pursuing an MBA abroad, says Pauley, who recommends it to anyone considering the option.

For more information, please visit:

“Do it, for sure,” she says.

schulich.yorku.ca/imba, careeroptionsmagazine.com.

“When you arrive in a different country, there are always going to be things you don’t expect,” says Deonandan. “It could be something as big as finding accommodation or getting comfortable with a regional dialect, but most of the time it’s probably cultural practices in the workplace or classroom. There’s a lot of nuanced behaviour that you might not be aware of before you arrive in an environment.”

“I’ve found that going outside of Canada can shape the way that you think about your everyday challenges and how you approach them. I know it’s scary to step outside of your comfort zone, but I encourage everyone to go out there and do just that, because that’s where the best things happen and that’s where you really discover what you’re capable of.” CO

MARC COUSINEAU is the founder and president of Incline Marketing, a social media marketing company working with non-profit organizations and professional associations. He is a graduate of Carleton University’s School of Journalism. He currently lives in Toronto where he dutifully cheers on his hometown Maple Leafs.

In the end, Pauley says, it is you and you alone who controls how good or how bad the experience is when traveling abroad to get an MBA. “You’re responsible for your own experience,” says the Schulich alumna, “and you have to be a leader in that sense. I did meet a lot of people who

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A D V E RT O R I A L

EXPERIENCE THE ONE-YEAR MBA AT UNB SAINT JOHN Offered by the oldest English-language university in Canada, the University of New Brunswick Saint John’s Master of Business Administration (MBA) program provides a world-class education and one of the shortest payback periods in North America for one-year or part-time MBAs. Our MBA is an investment in your future, with an intensive program that blends classroom learning with practical applications and real-world experience. Our students enjoy small class sizes, a diverse international student body, accessible faculty and a dedicated staff. All these elements work together to hone the skills you need to compete and succeed in the global marketplace. The program is designed to encourage students to think creatively and develop business ideas that can lead to entrepreneurial opportunities upon graduation. Students will benefit from the entrepreneurial mindset and leadership capabilities of our faculty members. CONCENTRATIONS Our program offers four streams and two program options. International Business gives you the opportunity to gain a deep understanding of doing business in other trade regions by pursuing studies in North America, Europe and Asia. Entrepreneurship and Technology Management includes an active role in a new venture or an established technology firm. General Management students may compose a broad program of study and work experience that helps them along their chosen career path. Project Management will prepare you to challenge the PMI examination and gain either the PMP or CAPM designation. Alternately, you may complete research within any of the streams with a UNB Saint John faculty member.

CONTACT NAME: SARAH CRAIG PHONE: 506-648-5973

EMAIL: SCRAIG@UNB.CA WEBSITE: MBA.UNBSJ.CA

Types of Programs Master of Business Administration with concentrations in: Project Management, Entrepreneurship and Technology Management, International Business, and General Management.

Application Fees Entry Requirements CGPA of 3.0 (based on a 4.3 scale) or “high B” standing in an internationally recognized 4-year bachelor degree or equivalent; 3-year honours degree with at least a second class standing will be considered.

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Minimum GMAT of 550. The GMAT may be waived for students with a 3.2 or higher CGPA.

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Tuition Fees $18,000 for domestic students and $24,500 for international students

Minimum of two years of relevant post-graduate work experience.

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$100 application fee

Length of Program 12 to 15 months. The International Business stream requires 15 months due to a study abroad requirement.

WHY UNB SAINT JOHN? UNB ranks among the top four comprehensive universities in Canada, according to the Maclean’s annual ranking. We offer scholarships of up to $10,000 for full-time students, an Individual Effectiveness Program that enriches your leadership potential, as well as a Corporate Mentorship Program that builds your competitive edge by matching you with an executive mentor. A low student-to-professor ratio guarantees access to respected educators and visiting scholars. UNB offers value for your investment. A compact, comprehensive, cost-effective one-year program minimizes both your real cost and your opportunity cost.

For international students: TOEFL score of 580 (237 CBT; 93 IBT) and TWE of 4.5; CAEL 60; IELTS 7; or equivalent.

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Personal statement.

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Apply by May 30th to be eligible for bursaries. Bursary details are available at www.mba.unbsj. ca/apply/FinancialAid

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Job Acquisition Statistics 35% employed to graduation 78% within 6 months • 100% within 12 months • Average salary: $65,000 • •

By Sabina Wex

UPWARD MOBILITY: FOCUS ON YOUR CAREER VERTICAL

wati Trivedi worked as an oncologist in India. She always asked her patients about their days and how they were feeling. Much of the time, patients responded with complaints about the bus schedule that took them to the hospital or the challenges of navigating through various departments at a tertiary medical centre. “These are bigger concerns to them than what the physicians are trying to address,” says Trivedi. “If somebody can help them with making these things streamlined, their lives would be significantly better, or at least they wouldn’t be worrying about these smaller things.” Trivedi decided that she wanted to solve these sorts of problems outside the clinic setting. She looked into schools in the U.S. and Canada, and eventually chose to pursue her Master of Business Administration (MBA) at the University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management with a specialization in healthcare. Trivedi graduated from Rotman this past May, and interned at Johnson & Johnson in the summer

of 2013. From there, Johnson & Johnson hired her as an associate product manager. She and a supervisor manage equipment used in cardiovascular procedures. Canadian Business magazine’s list of Canada’s 100 Best Jobs for 2014 ranked “healthcare manager” as fifth best. With our country’s aging population, Canadian Business predicts that the sector’s job market will grow by 15 percent. Healthcare managers already receive a median salary of $87,360, which is expected to grow 14 percent over the next five years. “The industry in Canada is so alive right now. There’s so much change, and people are talking about it,” says Trivedi. “Opportunities would have increased, and they would be more well-defined. People will be looking for a candidate who has a passion for healthcare and some business acumen to come in and support the transformation.” Trivedi cited how hospitals are trying to increase efficiency and improve customer service by working with each other and cutting wait times.

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Almost all the business-related jobs in the top ten of the Canadian Business Best Jobs list are specialized, whether in healthcare, human resources or finance. Specializing in these industry verticals during their MBA studies gives students an edge. “Specializations help to anchor the business fundamentals in a concentration or industry niche, which allows students to think about their learning in an applied way,” says Leigh Gauthier, Rotman acting director, recruitment and admissions for full-time MBA.

For more information, please visit: rotman.utoronto.ca, business.queensu.ca

Saad Ahmad took a different approach to his MBA specialization at Queen’s University. He knew he wanted to get his MBA and become a Certified Management Accountant (CMA). Queen’s allowed him to get the MBA within one year and then take his CMA online for six months. FA LL 2 0 14

“When you’re done with your CMA, if you’re an accountant, I can go up in accounting a lot more because I have that knowledge to audit or to sign off,” says Ahmad. While pursuing an MBA certainly will help you grow horizontally, allowing you to take your employment opportunities across the world, tailoring your MBA to a particular specialization will help you to grow vertically. This, for many MBA candidates, is essential for advancing within companies and industries. CO

SABINA WEX is in her second year at the University of King’s College studying Classics and Early Modern Studies. She is the assistant news editor for the Dalhousie Gazette.

Rank

1 3 5 7 9

Lawyer $79,997

Oil & Gas Drilling Supervisor $72,800

4 6

Health Care Manager $87,360

Head Nurse & Medical Supervisor $76,960 Financial Administrator $82,992

Job Title Salary, Job Outlook

Public Administration Director $97, 074

Primary Production Manager $110,240 Human Resources Manager $81,994

8 10

Social, Community & Correctional Services Manager $67,600 Electrical & Telecommunications Contractor $72,800

The Top 10 Best Jobs in Canada 2014 Based on salary and job outlook Source: canadianbusiness.com

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By Vanessa King

CLICK YOUR WAY TO AN MBA: ONLINE DEGREES AND WORK-LIFE BALANCE

hanks to technology, pursuing an MBA doesn’t mean you have to change cities or hit pause on your career and social life. More and more universities in Canada have made the move to online MBA delivery options in order to cater to a growing group of professionals who want to advance their education without moving or leaving work. As of now, only a handful of Canadian universities offer fully web-based MBA programs. Many schools have distance-learning options where some course work is completed on campus and some online. From increased flexibility to communication challenges, what are some of the advantages and drawbacks of trading in notebooks and lecture halls for keyboards and monitors? MORE FLEXIBILITY Online MBAs are clearly a more flexible option than traditional programs. Unlike on-campus courses, students don’t need to move to where their school of choice is located, or leave jobs to attend class throughout the week. “A program like an MBA appeals to working professionals,” says Victoria Martin, the MBA program director at Thompson Rivers University. “They’re seeking out the online options because they require that flexibility to be able to advance their education.” Online MBA programs offer varying levels of flexibility. Some schools, such as Athabasca University, offer virtual courses without set lecture times. Students can participate in discussions and group work whenever is most convenient for them, notes Alain May, director of Athabasca’s Executive MBA program. Other universities have set lecture times when students must be online to participate, such as the MBA program at the University of Fredericton. These live lectures give students a chance to directly interact with professors and peers, although they have the potential to lead to time zone conflicts, says Blair Lipsett, an MBA student at the university.

Lipsett is located in Atlantic daylight time, while most of his professors are located in Eastern Standard Time (EST). “Thankfully I haven’t had any professors who have had a class that’s too late for me,” he says. “But if I get a professor who’s in California and wants to run his class on Pacific time, then I’m staying up until midnight to take advantage of those courses.” The university is aware of time zone challenges when planning courses, says David Large, dean of the Sandermoen School of Business at the University of Fredericton. Online classes normally start at 7 p.m. or 8 p.m. EST to avoid conflicts with students on the East and West coasts. VIRTUAL INTERACTION What students gain in flexibility, they may lose in terms of face-to-face group work and collaboration with peers. Many online programs are using new technology in an attempt to replicate traditional classroom communication. The University of Guelph, which offers an integrated MBA program with both on-campus and online coursework, uses video technology that allows more than 20 students to communicate with each other at once, says Sylvain Charlebois, the university’s associate dean of research and graduate studies. “The image is good enough to see someone’s expression, which is really important when you’re trying to convey a message to people located in different places around the world,” he says. Although the university uses innovative technology to bridge the virtual gap, Charlebois notes that it will never be quite the same as sitting down face-toface to communicate. “You can’t replace real-time exchanges, but you can always try to enhance online delivery,” he says.

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Enhancements that many universities use include Skype, Google Docs, email and other virtual collaborative tools. Still, communication continues to be a work in progress for many online MBA programs. “We’ll never be able to truly emulate the interactivity that you get in the classroom, but we do our best to encourage the students to connect with each other, to work together and to really build a network,” says Martin.

“IN ONLINE PROGRAMS YOU HEAR A REALLY INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE AND YOU GET A LOT OF DIFFERENT INDUSTRIES REPRESENTED IN YOUR COURSES.”

CASTING WIDER NETWORKS Student networks built through online MBAs are also different from those forged in traditional programs. As a result of online programs’ flexibility, students have the opportunity to connect with peers involved in different sectors and located internationally.

“Being able to interact with people from all over the world is a big advantage to online MBAs,” says Jan Reischek, a graduate of the Athabasca University online MBA program. “I met and collaborated with so many people with diverse backgrounds and experiences.”

For more information, please visit: tru.ca/business/ mba.html, business.athabascau.ca/mba, ufred.ca, uoguelph.ca

This is a unique opportunity offered to online MBA students, as traditional programs tend to attract people from similar places and backgrounds, May added. “If you’re in one particular place, you’ll get a lot of students in a particular industry,” says May. “[In online programs] you hear a really international perspective and you get a lot of different industries represented in your courses.” Along with the opportunity to network with peers, online MBA programs also stress that students connect with leaders from the business world. Most programs live-stream speakers and presentations so that distance students can benefit from the same opportunities as those studying on campus. Many universities also offer mixers and other events to encourage networking between students and industry leaders. REAL-WORLD PREPARATION From live streams of speakers to virtual networking with peers, online programs encourage students to embrace technology and think differently when it comes to business, says Martin.

THE FUTURE OF ONLINE MBAS With so many advantages to studying online, it’s not surprising that more universities are turning their attention to online MBA programs.

This trend will only continue, according to Large. In the United States there are hundreds of online MBA programs, and many of the country’s top schools offer online options with the same curriculum, professors and rigor as their on-campus programs, he says. The MBA sphere in Canada has already seen a shift online, with most MBA programs adopting some kind of web-based coursework to complement in-classroom curricula, he says. As potential MBA students become busier, universities will find it more necessary to offer the benefits associated with online programs, Martin says. “Increasing flexibility and more options to be able to study in a flexible environment will become more and more desirable, and I think programs will respond in increasing their options,” she says. After all, that’s what attracted students like Lipsett and Reischek to online MBA programs—and they have no regrets. “I’ve had nothing but the best experiences and enjoyed my online MBA program more than I ever enjoyed my on-campus college and university programs,” Reischek says. “The flexibility allows you to continue working toward your career goals and still maintain some work-education-life balance.” Whether you’re interested in flexibility, international networking or a tech-first approach, the online MBA offers some major perks to any student considering furthering their education. CO

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Students in online MBA programs are also taught to be comfortable working in “asynchronous environments,” added Reischek. “Communicating this way is incredibly different than traditional classroom methods, but becoming more common,” she says. “[Online MBAs are] a great way to learn the best practices for that type of communication.”

A lot has changed since Athabasca University created its online program in 1994 and had to mail floppy disks to students. More and more “brick and mortar” programs are joining the university in the online sphere, May says.

By encouraging the frequent use of web collaboration tools, these online programs are teaching students how to work in “virtual teams”—a necessary skill in today’s workplace, she says.

to be working with clients, colleagues, partners who may be located anywhere in the world.”

CA REEROP TI O N SMAGA ZIN E.COM /M BA

VANESSA KING is a recent Carleton University journalism graduate. She currently works as a producer at an Ottawa-based public affairs agency. You can follow her on Twitter @vanessanking.

CAREER TURNING POINT

By William Johnson

LEARNING A NEW LANGUAGE

By William Johnson

anada is a remarkably diverse country. This reality is apparent in the way our large cities strikingly contrast with our vast forests and plains. It’s palpable in the microcultures that shape the ideas and laws that govern our provinces and territories. But no more is this idea of diversity more evident than in how the people who live here communicate with each other. For example, in 2011, Canada’s foreign-born population totaled about 6,775,800 people, or 20 percent of our population—the highest proportion among G8 nations, according to Statistics Canada. The more interesting fact is that over 50 percent of them reported being able to speak in two languages, and nearly 20 percent were proficient in at least three. What’s more, according to the same survey, over 200 languages are being spoken at home in Canada. That’s a tall number given that we only have two official languages: French and English.

that many people already speak, or the languages that may soon be in demand. According to the 2011 Census, English, French, Mandarin, Cantonese, Chinese (unspecified), Arabic and Punjabi are the most commonly used languages in Canada’s major cities. So here are a few things to think about:

Many people speak multiple languages to maintain relationships: a mother tongue to communicate with immigrant relatives at home, and then English or French with colleagues and clients at work. Others grow up simply learning two languages in school. Whatever the reason, out of necessity or interest, being able to communicate in multiple languages is an extremely valuable asset when it comes to your career. So if you’re currently monolingual, it’s worth asking yourself: are you missing out on opportunities to broaden your horizons or grow relationships? Should you consider learning a new language?

• What is the language of your customers or prospective customers?

Let’s look at the benefits of learning a new language. At the basic level, it would help you to achieve the following: • Open up new opportunities to communicate with a greater number of people; • Allow you to differentiate yourself from other job candidates with similar skills and experiences; and • Improve your memory, decision-making skills and multitasking skills (according to multiple studies by the University of New Brunswick, the University of Chicago and Pennsylvania State University, respectively).

• What are the different values attributed to different languages? • What language’s usage is rising the most (in 2011, it was Tagalog)?

• Where (what industries and geo-locations) are new market opportunities emerging? Let’s say you’ve contemplated those points and decided. You can’t pretend that learning a new language isn’t a massive undertaking. It is. However, you can take solace in knowing that Canada’s current bilingual Governor General, David Johnston, didn’t actually learn French—essential to his current role—until he was 37, after he moved to Montreal, according to The Globe and Mail. It’s never too late. You also need to survey your options for ways you will learn. You can do this through audiotapes and podcasts; structured language training courses; living in another city or a foreign country; listening to international music and watching foreign media; and computer programs such as Rosetta Stone and Pimsleur, among other ways. Find what works best for you. Oh, and before you get started on what may seem for some people like a long, ambitious and challenging journey, remember that you’ve technically already done this before (you’re reading this, right?). You can do it again. CO WILLIAM JOHNSON is an Ottawa-based student engagement and communications professional working at the post-secondary level. He blogs about productivity, personal development and digital culture. Follow his insights at williamjohnson.ca and on Twitter @notionport.

The benefits are clear. But ultimately, pursuing this course of action must be justified for your current situation. You need to take a strategic approach, and reflect on how this new competency would mix with your current cocktail of knowledge, skills and experiences. Not only that, you need to think about what language is worth acquiring. One way to go about this is to weigh the value of learning languages

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By Sarah Whittaker

ACE YOUR MBA APPLICATION:

Tips, Strategies and Practices for Your Best Presentation

very year, thousands of undergraduate students from across Canada make the decision to pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree. It’s no wonder: MBA graduates are recognized internationally as examples of academic excellence and professionalism. Most MBA hopefuls tend to focus on achieving a high Grade Point Average (GPA) and stellar Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) scores. But while these factors are important, they do NOT guarantee you a place in an MBA program! The key to getting accepted into your school of choice is how successfully you personalize your application package, and differentiate yourself from other applicants with similar qualifications. PREPARE FOR THE GMAT The GMAT measures a diverse set of valuable business-related skills. It’s a challenging test, to be sure, and it is recommended that you prepare at least six months in advance. Make sure to target a competitive score of 600+ and study using a variety of textbooks and online resources. Do practice tests and a diagnostic exam to identify your strengths and weaknesses, so you can learn from your mistakes and figure out how to focus your improvement efforts. If you still do not feel prepared, consider enlisting the help of a qualified private tutor who has experience and a high GMAT score.

PLAN FOR DEADLINES When considering an MBA, recognize the advantage of having ample time for the application process. Although a range of different schools may appeal to you, weigh the pros and cons to see if each school’s program relates to your future goals. Once you have finalized a list of around six schools, customize your resumé, essay or statement of intent, and reference letters to suit the requirements of the individual institutions. Ensure your entire application package is consistent and highlights the skills and assets that make you unique as an applicant. KNOW YOUR STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES If your GPA and GMAT scores aren’t particularly high, you can still get into an MBA program. Even though the GPA and GMAT demonstrate the basic level of required knowledge and skills, admission officers are looking for wellrounded candidates with real potential to succeed in the business world—for example, individuals with leadership skills who inspire and bring out the best in others. Knowing yourself is an essential part of the application process and your success in the program. Prepare ahead by brainstorming a strategic and authentic approach to your application that plays to your strengths. Tell a consistent and personalized story that solidifies your reasons for seeking an CA REER O P T IO N S M BA

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WHAT TO DO WHEN APPLYING FOR AN MBA »

MBA. Admissions officers will have a better understanding as to your motivation for pursuing an MBA, and also gain insight into your character. ADJUST YOUR RESUMÉ AND SECURE LETTERS OF REFERENCE Complete your resumé by objectively assessing your strengths and weaknesses, and take the time to improve any gaps. Highlight full-time experience that demonstrates responsibility, initiative and management of projects, budgets or people. Broaden your network by connecting in advance with individuals who can provide strong letters of reference. Be courteous and ensure they have ample time to complete the recommendation forms. Your resumé and reference letters are a chance to highlight skills that go beyond the classroom. Applying for an MBA can be a stressful and scary endeavour. Preparing in advance will give you time to customize your application package and tell a consistent and personal story. If you work hard to make sure you stand out in a positive light, your chances of getting into an MBA program will improve dramatically. CO

SARAH WHITTAKER is a student at the University of Ottawa’s Telfer School of Management specializing in finance. She currently resides in Ottawa, Ontario.

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By Marc Cousineau

SUCCESS BY ASSOCIATION:

WHY JOINING A PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION CAN HELP YOUR CAREER

inkedIn is a great tool for students and new graduates looking to make connections and start a career in their chosen field, but to be honest, there’s really nothing like the original LinkedIn: professional associations.

Professional associations have been hooking up young professionals with great networking opportunities and jobs way before it was cool to do it online. Membership in an association comes with all sorts of benefits, especially for students wanting to jumpstart their careers.

Here are four ways students can get ahead by joining an association: NETWORKING Joining an association can offer you many opportunities to tap into the business circles of some of the most successful, wellconnected and well-respected people in any industry. Conferences, local chapter events and volunteering on committees are all great occasions to talk to those who have years of experience. Use these events to learn from them and to start building key relationships, which could help when applying to jobs later. 22

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CA REEROP TI O N SMAGA ZIN E.COM /M BA

“Associations give you the chance to pursue your passion and hone your skills in a supportive environment.”

EDUCATION Many associations provide their members with the latest news and developments in their industry. They can also give you the resources to deal with industry issues and practical advice on how to make the most of the newest innovations. Associations may provide seminars, newsletters and access to online articles, giving student members the tools to grow and improve every day. This is the edge you may need to come out of school with both a diploma and a job.

it’s volunteering on a committee, helping to organize an event or writing an article for the quarterly trade magazine, associations give you the chance to pursue your passion and hone your skills in a supportive environment. Having these experiences will look attractive on your resumé, but they also help you grow and improve. Joining your industry’s professional association as a student or when you are just starting your career is definitely worth the cost of membership and will help you get a great start to the career of your dreams. CO

MENTORSHIP Harry had Dumbledore, Katniss had Haymitch and Luke had Obi-Wan. If you want to be the best, you need to learn from the best, and that means having a mentor. Both industry veterans and hot up-and-comers may be part of your association. Some might even be eager to help you—the rookie—out by showing you the ropes and giving you all sorts of nuggets of wisdom that they have collected through the years. Participating in your association’s events and initiatives will expose you to these people and give you contacts you can call on when you need some advice.

RESUMÉ BUILDING There aren’t many things in life that make you feel as good as tacking on another great experience to your resumé. Associations can help you fill that space under “Volunteer Activities” or “Achievements” pretty fast. Whether

MBA SCHOOL PROFILE A D V E RT O R I A L

WILFRID LAURIER

An Inspired Approach to Business Education Types of Programs

Waterloo Campus • One year full-time MBA • MBA with co-op • Part-time evenings MBA • MBA in Entrepreneurship Toronto Campus (Part-time) • Alternate weekend MBA • MBA with CPA • MBA with CFA® Track Option • Accelerated MBA • Accelerated MBA for CMAs

Length of Programs

At Laurier we aspire to the highest levels of personal, professional, and academic accomplishment. You will discover that a Laurier MBA opens many opportunities for you both personally and professionally. Our students leave with more than an MBA—they are equipped and inspired to make a significant difference in the world. Students completing their MBA at our downtown Toronto campus in the heart of the financial district will benefit from our alternating weekend schedule. It is the best part-time schedule in the city for working professionals, allowing you to balance your work, studies, and personal life. Students at the Toronto campus can pursue their general MBA with one of eleven specializations or one of two designations (the CPA and the CFA®). Students studying at our Waterloo campus will complete their MBA in a part-time evening schedule, or through the renowned one year full-time format. Strong undergraduates may apply to the Laurier MBA with co-op option to gain eight months of valuable work experience while pursuing their MBA. ENHANCE YOUR GENERAL MBA WITH A SPECIALIZATION To gain a level of expertise, students can choose from a wide range of specializations, which include international business, operations, supply chain management, and more. These specializations are designed and delivered to suit each candidate’s individual career aspirations. Our faculty members are leaders and researchers in their areas of specialization, and bring a superior level of expertise and collaboration into the Laurier MBA classroom. Students interested in innovation and entrepreneurship will benefit from Laurier’s LaunchPad program, an experiential learning opportunity for students and alumni to discover, validate, and launch an innovative new venture. WHY CHOOSE THE LAURIER MBA? The Laurier MBA’s “Integrated Core” is a superior teaching model that seamlessly incorporates all of the core fundamental business courses. This methodology gives students a unique classroom experience through immersive learning vehicles, such as live integrated cases, company-based projects and simulations. Our goal is to motivate the personal and professional development of all MBA students to their full potential. The ability to communicate clearly and persuasively is an essential competency for graduates of our program. This development starts on day one for our students. Additionally, students receive a high level of individual support and assistance from the Laurier Career Centre to develop strategies to meet lifelong career goals. 24

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CA RE EROP T IO N SMAGA ZIN E.COM /M BA

• 12 months (full-time) • 20 months (MBA with co-op) • 40 months (part-time MBA) • 48 months (MBA with CPA)

Areas of Specialization

• Accounting • Entrepreneurship • Financial Management • Innovation & Entrepreneurship • International Business Management • Marketing • Operations Management • Organizational Behaviour & Human Resource Management • Strategic Management • Supply Chain Management • N EW IN 2014: Golf and Resort Management MBA specialization

Entry Requirements

General Requirements • GPA of B (73%) • GMAT of 550 • Minimum two years of full-time work experience Co-op Requirements • GPA of B+ (77%) • GMAT of 600 • Less than two years of full-time work experience

CONTACT RYAN PYEAR, WATERLOO PROGRAMS RPYEAR@WLU.CA | 519-884-0710 x3499 MAUREEN FERRARO, TORONTO PROGRAMS MFERRARO@WLU.CA | 519-884-0710 x6220 WEBSITE: LAURIERMBA.CA

MBA SCHOOL PROFILE A D V E RT O R I A L

BOND UNIVERSITY

Bond MBA: The One By One Difference Duration

1 year full-time (3 semesters)

Intakes

January, May, September

Entry Requirements

• Quality undergraduate degree from a recognised institution • Curriculum vitae documenting a minimum three years’ professional experience • Cover letter detailing your career goals, future ambitions and experience • Two professional references • Interview with the MBA Program Director PRIVATE STATUS Bond University is a fully independent, privately owned, not-for-profit organisation. This means 100% of tuition fees and other revenue is re-invested into our students’ education. INDUSTRY CONNECTIONS Unleash your potential with access to our relationships with prominent organisations, such as Cisco, Deloitte, Disney, Goldman Sachs, Hilton, IBM, KPMG, Marriott, Microsoft, PwC, and Virgin Group. EXCLUSIVE LOCATION We are situated in Gold Coast, Australia, arguably one of the most beautiful locations in the world, offering seemingly endless beaches, a wealth of dining and entertainment opportunities, and over 300 days of sunshine a year. ELITE COHORTS The average Bond MBA student is 31 years of age with nine years’ professional experience. With a near 50/50 gender split, and over 20 nationalities represented from Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe and the Middle East, we have one of the most elite and diverse MBA cohorts in the world. DEDICATED FACILITIES Students have complete access to a range of state-of-the-art facilities, including our Macquarie Trading Room, featuring streamed market information from our 24 Bloomberg data terminals, used to simulate real-world trading environments. PROGRAM FLEXIBILITY Studying and working simultaneously can be challenging. Students can choose to complete their MBA in 12 months full-time, or take advantage of our flexible options, including part-time enrolment, selected evening classes, and intensive Friday-Saturday-Sunday subjects. MBA ORIENTATION Our MBA program starts with an exclusive three-day O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat, designed to build a cohesive cohort that understands each other’s strengths, challenges, and differences. INTIMATE SCALE Most importantly, our intimate scale of less than 5,000 students and one of the lowest student-staff ratios in the world delivers unparalleled access to facilities, networking opportunities, industry connections, international experiences, and a truly personalised education with professors who know you by name. *

2013 Financial Review MBA BOSS Rankings

CA REER O P T IO N S M BA

Program Structure

Students must complete the following subjects: • MBA Orientation • Accounting Principles • Statistical Methods for Business • Managing People • Marketing Management • Managerial Finance • Managerial Economics • Management Accounting and Strategy • International Business • Entrepreneurship & Innovation • Business Strategy Plus two free choice postgraduate business electives.

MBA Specialisations

By undertaking an additional semester of study, you can graduate with an MBA specialisation: • MBA (Finance) • MBA (Marketing)

Career Outcomes

Graduates have highly developed planning, analytical, and interpersonal skills that enhance their ability to successfully manage in a global business environment. According to Forbes (2014), MBA graduate salaries are at least 50% higher than those without an MBA.

Tuition Fees $49,104 AUD

CONTACT EMAIL: INFORMATION@BOND.EDU.AU PHONE: +61 7 5595 1024 WEBSITE: WWW.BOND.EDU.AU/MBA FA LL 2 0 14

MBA SCHOOL PROFILE A D V E RT O R I A L

S H A N N O N S C H O O L O F B U S I N E S S AT C A P E B R E T O N U N I V E R S I T Y

An MBA for Leaders in a Changing World Types of Programs

MBA in Community Economic Development with Options in: International Business, Strategic Leadership, Tourism, Marketing, Public Policy, Sustainability, First Nations, and Peace-building

Length of Program

• Full-time program: 12-15 months • Part-time weekend program in select Canadian cities: 24-26 months • Part-time July short-residency program: 26 months

Tuition Fees

Canadian students • Full-time program: CAD $21,771 • Part-time weekend program: CAD $32,650-38,800, depending on location • Part-time July short-residency program: CAD $21,771 Offered by the Shannon School of Business at Cape Breton University (CBU), a public institution established in Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada in 1974, the MBA in Community Economic Development (CED) program provides options for students starting their career or professionals advancing their career. Global competition and technological change are driving today’s economy and organizations realize that they require leaders who understand the dynamics and complexities of growth, innovation, and community. This is what drives the demand for multidisciplinary MBA programs. A combination of business, leadership, and development fundamentals, the MBA in CED prepares students for transformative careers in business, government, or community organizations. CBU’s MBA in CED is a flexible option regardless of your location. You can earn your MBA over 12-15 months as a full-time student on campus, or as part of a 26-month program that requires three July residencies, or as part of a 26-month program that takes place on alternate weekends in five Canadian cities. SPECIALIZATIONS The MBA in CED consists of 13 core courses, 2 elective courses, and an Applied Research Project (ARP). One can earn an Option when one completes the 2 electives and the Applied Research Project in the same area. Options include: International Business, Strategic Leadership, Tourism, Marketing, Public Policy, Sustainability, First Nations, and Peace-building. WHY CBU The Canadian Business magazine observed that students who pursue the program on campus “can’t help but fall in love with Cape Breton’s friendly vibe and breathtaking scenery.” CBU supports students in their learning, with small classes, committed faculty, writing centre services, student placement services, and hands-on research projects.

International students • Full-time program: CAD $32,155

Entry Requirements

• Three start dates per year (January, July, September) • Open to graduates from any degree program • B+ standing in a recognized 4-year bachelor degree • Minimum GMAT score of 500, with balanced verbal and quantitative scores; the GMAT may be waived for students who completed their post-secondary studies in a Canadian university, and earned a B+ average in qualitative and quantitative courses or have managerial experience • Work experience preferred, but not required • International students: TOEFL score of 550 (213 CBT, 80 IBT); IELTS 6.5; or equivalent Application fee: $88. Apply before March 31 for July or September admission. Apply before October 31 for January admission.

With more than 1,000 international students on campus, CBU’s MBA students find themselves in a rich multicultural immersion environment that helps improve cross-cultural, interpersonal skills. “Working in administration and stakeholder engagement, CBU’s MBA helped further develop my business and management skills and broaden my professional opportunities,” said Amanda Tarr, Community Resources Advisor, Innovacorp. “I really enjoyed my classes as the diverse backgrounds of my fellow students enhanced classroom discussions and the overall learning experience.” 26

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CA RE EROP T IO N SMAGA ZIN E.COM /M BA

CONTACT EMAIL: MBA@CBU.CA PHONE: +1 902 563 1664 WEBSITE: WWW.CBU.CA/MBA