One of the most significant benefits of doing an MBA is the opportunity to meet like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds. As a medical doctor, I was initially hesitant about pursuing an MBA. Still, upon starting the programme, I realized that it was a great opportunity to broaden my horizons and meet ambitious people from various fields. This enriched my perspectives and allowed me to establish a network of contacts that will be valuable for my future career development.
Moreover, the quality of education at Porto business school is second to none. The Digital MBA was designed to offer practical expertise and real-life case studies that helped me learn the best practices in business management. The school was able to attract renowned educators who are experts in their respective fields, which provided me with access to a level of knowledge and expertise that I would not have gained otherwise. Additionally, the international experience that came with the programme exposed me to different cultures and ways of thinking, which made me more adaptable to change.
Despite the challenges of blended learning, I was surprised at the strength of the bonds I formed with my peers. The MBA was intense, and we had to work hard to complete assignments and projects within tight deadlines. However, the shared experience of working through these challenges brought us closer together, and I have gained not only colleagues but also friends. The support system we built during the MBA has continued even after graduation, and I am confident I can rely on my network for professional or personal reasons.
Regarding skills, the Digital MBA provided valuable tools I can use in my everyday practice as a clinical pathologist. The mental and emotional endurance I developed during the programme has helped me deal with the challenges of managing teams and clinical laboratories, where conflict resolution and decision-making skills are essential. Additionally, the programmed honed my creative problem-solving capabilities, which I can use to develop new solutions to clinical problems. Finally, learning the language of business has allowed me to communicate more effectively with other professionals and better understand the financial aspects of healthcare management.
Since completing my MBA, I have noticed a tangible difference in how I approach my work. Not only have I gained a better understanding of how businesses operate, but I have also become more confident in my executive skills. As a doctor, providing high-quality patient care requires a specialized skill set and a deep understanding of healthcare systems. Furthermore, the programme has opened my eyes to the importance of efficiently managing my finances, which I have applied to my investment portfolio. Overall, the programme has provided me with an enticing business card that I can leverage in the job market and has enhanced the skills paramount to my everyday practice.
Mariana Marques has concluded the Digital MBA in 2021.
