The Life of a Woman MBA
Balancing Work, Family, and School
Read Kecia’s keys to mastering the balancing act
Getting an MBA has been a goal of mine for a long time. So, the question wasn’t whether to do it, but how. I just dove right in! It hasn’t always been smooth sailing. I’ve had my share of challenges, but I’ve found support and friendship at every corner.
Challenge #1: Work
Right when I started the MBA for Executives Program, the banking industry was hit with some challenges of its own. As a recruiter, I’ve been busy hiring specialized people to work on the mortgage crisis. But in this economy, we also have to watch our bottom line, so we can’t hire the support staff we need in our office. As a result, my job responsibilities increased three-fold.
Fortunately, my coursework has helped me become more efficient and effective at my job! I have a better grasp of the challenges facing our industry. Now I contribute to strategic discussions on a different level, and my boss has noticed that I’m applying new concepts and ideas. Bank of America has lots of opportunities for growth, and the MBA for Executives Program will clearly help me reach my career goals.
Challenge #2: Personal
Long before I started the program, my husband and I had been trying to start a family. We didn’t want to put that on hold. So, we knew upfront that we might have a baby during my two years in the Program. I was honest with my teammates, asking them to share any concerns with me. Later, when I told them that I was pregnant, they were very supportive. Now that I’m waddling, they even carry my books for me. It’s really sweet and it means a lot to me.
Recently, I found out that my due date might be during December Immersion Week! When I told Anne Marie, she immediately set to work on plan B, so I can graduate on time no matter when Baby Atkins (it’s a boy!) arrives. The MBA for Executives staff is amazing. I don’t know if other programs would be that supportive of this kind of thing.
Challenge #3: School
I’m the only Human Resources Professional in my class, and I was worried I’d be weak in the quantitative classes. Some of my fellow students have finance backgrounds. At first, I’d hear them, and I’d think, ‘I don’t know what they are talking about.’ I admit, I struggled in those classes, but I learned a LOT. Now I understand the language, and I’m not intimidated by those conversations. I’ve also learned that everyone gets a chance to shine. I made it through Finance and Accounting, and now we’re in management classes where I’ve been able to make valuable contributions. We all have something to add. And we learn from each other.
I’ve made an amazing bunch of friends. In particular, there are 11 women in my class, and they’re all unique, remarkable individuals. We’ve really bonded. I wasn’t expecting that. I thought I’d just plug through the coursework alone. I knew I’d learn a lot, but it’s so much more than that!
