For an example of how an online MBA can be a major career accelerator, look no further than Kajal Choudhari’s story. She is a 2022 graduate of the online MBA at University of Maryland’s Smith School of Business, where she specialized in e-commerce, finance and strategy.
The degree was directly relevant to her current role as e-commerce finance and strategy manager for Estée Lauder, the cosmetics group that makes Aveda shampoo and MAC make-up.
In her interview below, we explore Choudhari’s academic journey, including the motivations that led her to pursue an online MBA and the transformative impact it has had on her career. We also discuss her professional growth, examining the skills and knowledge she gained through the program and how she has applied them in her role at one of the world’s leading cosmetic companies.
Additionally, Choudhari shares her thoughts on the benefits of an online MBA, offering guidance for those considering this path to enhance their career prospects. Whether you are an aspiring MBA candidate, or a professional seeking to advance your career, Choudhari’s story and advice promise to be both informative and inspiring.
Can you tell us a bit about your background and what motivated you to pursue an online MBA?
Prior to accepting my offer for the online MBA program, I was an early career professional working in finance at a large consumer-packaged-goods manufacturing company. My motivation to pursue an online MBA was driven by my curiosity to widen my skill-set and develop a deeper understanding of business operations – so I could be a value-add in my organization. Additionally, during the Covid-19 pandemic, I realized I would be able to simultaneously pursue advanced education while working from home while also getting reimbursement from my employer for the online MBA.
What were the key factors you considered when selecting an online MBA program?
They were breadth of courses, project opportunities such as consulting programs and concentrations to specialize, as well as the alumni network, program accreditation, connections with employers and faculty, tuition fees and scholarship opportunities, and general flexibility.
What are some of the key skills and knowledge you gained from the online MBA program?
I felt my online experience was as fruitful as a full-time MBA program, if not more. I was able to strengthen my skills in time and project management, work alongside peers with a variety of professional and personal backgrounds, and bridge together the learnings and challenges from my day-job to the theory learned in the classroom.
My coursework spanned marketing, analytics, strategy and operations – and I was able to take those skills back to my workplace and be a strong value-add to my team. I was also able to pursue a wide range of opportunities through consulting and capstone projects, with the added benefit of flexibility.
And, as things began opening up post-Covid, I was also able to participate in the in-person events and connect with the University of Maryland community.
In what ways did the online MBA help you achieve your career goals?
My online MBA has helped me market myself more broadly in the job marketplace, allowing me to explore options that I would not have been able to consider prior. I have also been able to expand my network and connect with alumni who have helped educate me on the variety of roles and industries that I could consider in my future.
Would you recommend an online MBA to others, and if so, why?
Absolutely! My experience was nothing short of amazing, and I genuinely feel it has helped me become a stronger and more confident professional. Not to mention the faculty and online MBA team always made themselves available, and were attentive to our needs as online students.
If you are looking for a strong level of education and have a sense of drive and commitment, an online MBA is a phenomenal way to advance yourself – with added flexibility.
