Ever wondered what it’s like to do an MBA online? We caught up with our current Live Online MBA student located in the lovely Bahamas, Shantera Brown, to find out how she is doing it all (earning an MBA, working full-time, and growing her network). So, let’s get into it.

Introducing Shantera …

Where’s your home campus and what are the benefits of studying in this city?  

Shantera: Boston, as it is close to home (the Bahamas) and corresponds to the local time zone. 

So, why a Live Online MBA?

Shantera: Pursuing a Live Online MBA as a business professional posed to be the most viable option at the current time. I adore the flexibility of being present for virtual classes without compromising work obligations.

Furthermore, Hult has provided great structure and incredible organization to the virtual space to ensure we, as online students, obtain the highest learning experience possible. With tremendous strides made, the quality of learning is exceptional and permits highly engaging courses taught by a brilliant faculty.

Hult has provided great structure and incredible organization to the virtual space to ensure we, as online students, obtain the highest learning experience possible.

What are the classes like?

Shantera: The classes are usually over a three-day weekend and enriched with content taught by the most elite professors within their indicated subject space. The lectures involve team-building exercises, projects, class assignments, and quizzes. There are deadlines to submit assignments but all within very reasonable times. Additionally, the professors are always there to help with any questions or queries.

How would you describe the professors at Hult?

Shantera: The professors are very thoughtful, patient, and very informative. Rob Anthony is one of my favorite professors. He provided little golden nuggets along the way, ensuring that we need not put so much pressure on ourselves to be perfect all the time but to be the best we can by constantly being teachable in particular moments.

The classes are enriched with content taught by the most elite professors within their indicated subject space.

The biggest challenge you faced during the program?

Shantera: Having unfamiliarity with online learning at this level meant having a lot of discipline. Undeniably, I had to factor in a greater sense of personal accountability, unlike before. At first, it was a bit of a challenge but as I progressed in the program, defining a schedule, prioritizing commitments, and creating a sustainable workflow was the key. Having this process gave me more confidence to excel in my courses.

What’s an average day like for you?  

My day starts with meditation when the sun rises. I then make a delicious breakfast to fuel and nourish my body. Afterward, I get dressed to commute to work while playing my favorite 80’s playlist, which places me in a great mood! Upon reaching the office, I begin answering emails and tending to client requests for the remainder of the day. After work, I usually head to the gym. Lastly, I head home to enjoy dinner, reflect on the day and conduct an overview of activities accomplished before delving into my studies.

Tell Us A little Bit About Your Career

What does a growth mindset mean to you? Can you give me an example of how you demonstrate a growth mindset in your daily life? 

Having a growth mindset means being open to new perspectives of doing things and how I see the world. I apply this concept by being receptive and not close-minded, embracing change, and seeing life through a different lens orchestrated by diverse entities.

How do you balance studying and working at the same time? 

Accountability plays a crucial part in the grand scheme of things. I believe that studying and working can co-exist if one is diligent and responsible. I have watched my parents study for their respective degrees, work, and take care of our family—I thought they were superheroes! Ultimately, they were just responsible and committed to achieving their goals, displaying the utmost accountability. They are indeed my role models and have equipped me with the support, motivation, and desire to achieve my own goals.

I believe that studying and working can co-exist if one is diligent and responsible.

Hult Is All About The Experiences

Shantera told me how she truly feels about Hult (pass the tissues!)

How would you describe the Hult network?  

Shantera: The Hult network is absolutely fantastic and supportive. I have made relationships with colleagues and partners in various fields other than banking and although different, this enables me to gain new perspectives to thrive in areas of my life where it deems fitting.

Which other campuses have you studied at (or plan to study at)? 

Shantera: I plan to visit London for summer studies to fully incorporate studying in a different jurisdiction and meeting new people. 

The Hult network is absolutely fantastic and supportive.

Do you think there are benefits of studying at more than one campus?

Shantera: Diversity and culture resonate with me. Having a global perspective and being immersed by peers other than myself is truly the best learning experience one should take advantage of.

Did our career development team support you, and what was the outcome?

Shantera: The career development helped me tailor my resume and provided adequate job preparations, which has greatly assisted me in boosting my confidence in applying for roles, aligning with my passions and career path.

Please complete this sentence: “Hult empowers me to …”  

Shantera: Become the BEST version of Shantera there is!

Do you also want to advance your career but on your own terms like Shantera is doing? Download a brochure to find out more about our Live Online MBA program.