We spoke with Marina Al-Ashhab, MBA (Online) graduate, about her experience at Aston University.
Here's what she had to say...
Choosing Aston University for an MBA
Marina Al-Ashhab's decision to pursue an MBA at Aston University was influenced by several critical factors. "I chose Aston Business School because it is triple accredited. Its MBA programme is truly holistic, and I can say now that it delivered what it promised", Marina explained.
The curriculum's blend of theoretical literature and real-life examples was a significant draw for her. Additionally, she appreciated the flexibility of the online format, which was especially crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic. "I started the programme in September 2020, when universities had to switch to an online format, so I chose a programme that was designed, since inception, to be online", she added.
The availability of live webinars at different times to accommodate various time zones was another benefit that attracted Marina to Aston Business School.
Marina's highlights of the course
Marina found multiple aspects of the course particularly enjoyable. "I enjoyed working on the assignments as they allowed me to apply the knowledge I gained and pair it with my experience to solve realistic business problems", she said.
These assignments provided practical insights into problems she might not have encountered in her career yet, enhancing her readiness to tackle them in the future. The virtual classes, live webinars and digital tools were also highlights for her.
"Although it is an online programme, I connected with a great group and we are still in touch", she shared, reflecting on the sense of community she experienced.
A journey of self-discovery and empowerment
The MBA programme at Aston Business School profoundly impacted Marina's career and personal development. "Studying at Aston Business School is not only an academic journey but also a journey of self-discovery and empowerment", Marina stated. The programme's structure encouraged her to reflect on her career, challenges and personal growth.
It enabled me to reflect deeply on myself as a person, a professional and a leader."
One of the initial assignments involved examining her career trajectory, identifying repeated patterns and devising strategies to overcome barriers. "The result was that by the end of the programme, I was promoted to a director role, three years sooner than my initial plan", she revealed. This promotion is a testament to the significant benefits she gained from the MBA programme.
I put in the effort and gave it my all, and I reaped the benefits; this is a testimony to how the Aston [University] MBA helped me."
Live experiential projects
Marina's final module involved a compelling applied research project, addressing a significant gap in the literature by exploring the impact of COVID-19 on a vehicle protection plan provider's performance.
"[My] research identified best practices to overcome that challenging time in the sub-industry", she noted. By interviewing the organisation's leadership team and analysing financial and non-financial reports, she was able to consolidate her knowledge and apply the tools learned throughout the programme.
Marina concluded:
In general, all assignments allowed me to apply the knowledge and skills I gained and pair them with my experience to solve realistic business problems. In my opinion, this was fundamental to the programme's satisfaction"
