WMU MBA student embraces bold choices, new beginnings
KALAMAZOO, Mich.— “I’ve always enjoyed working with people and so much of business is rooted in relationships, communication and using your strengths to create a healthy, productive environment,” says MBA student Mackenzie Shepherd. Originally from Kalamazoo, Michigan, Shepherd is mastering business skills as she tackles the second year of the MBA program at Western Michigan University’s Haworth College of Business.
Having obtained her bachelor’s degree in ministry and leadership, Shepherd was looking for ways to open new doors in her career.
“Since I recently became a mom, I chose the MBA program knowing that my career path might not be perfectly linear. I wanted a degree that would give me a strong, well-rounded foundation, and I knew this program would be a great opportunity. An MBA felt like the right fit because it brings together my interests in organizational function and people, while still giving me the flexibility to grow into whatever path best supports my life and family.”
Through her graduate studies, Shepherd has realized her own passions and strengths, pushing herself to her full potential.
“I’ve learned the importance of perspective. At times, continuing in higher education can seem daunting as most graduate students juggle family, work, school and other personal commitments. Yet, there is so much power in keeping a positive mindset. I believe we were created to do hard things, and each situation we face is an opportunity to grow. One of the main skills I will bring into my future is the ability to embrace different strengths and viewpoints of all team members to accomplish a common goal.”
Shepherd has received constant support from the faculty at WMU Haworth. “When I look back on my time in the business college, Dr. Jennifer Bott, professor of marketing, stands out as someone who has had a significant influence on how I hope to think, communicate and lead after earning my MBA,” she says. “One of the biggest lessons I learned from Dr. Bott was the power of humility. I watched my peers grow in confidence, courage and curiosity because she consistently took the time to understand them and support them in ways that fit who they were. Her example has shaped the kind of leader I hope to become.”
This support was crucial to Shepherd’s success, especially as she took on the new challenge of parenthood along the way. “I was only able to continue in the MBA program because of the flexibility of the format and the faculty,” she says. “Some weeks I chose the online option and sometimes I was able to work ahead of schedule, but I was always met with overwhelming support and excitement for my growing family. I am grateful for this flexibility as it allowed me to stick to my expected graduation date!”
Shepherd plans to graduate in May, with hopes of bringing her newfound knowledge to nonprofit spaces. With that in mind, she shares some words of advice with others who are considering the MBA program at WMU Haworth.
“My biggest encouragement for anyone considering or preparing to enter the program is to be bold. One of the best parts of this program is the opportunity to network and step outside your comfort zone. Many students are balancing full-time jobs, families and coursework, but there are amazing things waiting when we take a step we wouldn’t normally take.”
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