Describe your personal, educational, and professional experiences and how they informed your decision to pursue a graduate degree.
I initially decided to pursue a Master of Business Administration degree as a means to rise through the ranks within my company. This is the primary reason why I specifically enrolled in a part-time program that allowed me to work full-time. Although I enjoyed the unique opportunity of infusing my work with class learnings and vice versa, I became exposed to a larger world of possibilities. I learned about other industries and ways of working. My horizons expanded and I made the decision to accelerate as a full-time student and focus on a career pivot. The reason can change, but the reason should be clear nonetheless.
What challenges did you encounter along your educational trajectory? How did you overcome those challenges?
My biggest hurdle was stress and time management. Starting in high school, I got trapped into thinking I had to push myself and work that much harder to feel externally validated. The hard-work ethic of my parents and pressure from school instilled in me a persistent drive. However, I learned in the workplace that without direction or focus, hard work is fruitless. I knew I wanted to approach my graduate studies with a much healthier mindset about myself and my work. I set goals and boundaries, and prioritized tasks. Not only did I excel in the classroom, I was much happier through it all.
What advice do you have for individuals who are interested in pursuing a graduate degree?
Treat the application process as a part-time or full-time job. 1) Structure the process into “buckets” of action items and plan your day around completing them. 2) Create folders devoted to each school so that you keep track and stay organized. 3) Over-communicate by developing a growing list of contacts for informational interviews and recommendations, and have your elevator pitch ready. 4) Over-prepare by getting clear about your skill sets and contributions and how it ties to specific programs. 5) Maintain a focus on your “why” and never lose sight of why now, why that school, and why that program.
What did you enjoy most about your graduate/professional program?
I stayed present in the classroom. It did wonders for both my confidence and grades when I actively listened to lectures and engaged in class discussions. We are often going to lack representation as Latinas in graduate school. In this fact, it is important to remember that we offer a unique and valuable perspective. I met amazing people. It is easy to think that, unlike your undergraduate experience, you can walk in and out of a graduate degree. You simply show up to class, do your homework, and repeat. To maximize your graduate school tuition dollars, focus on leadership activities that align with your career goals or join organizations that allow you to make new connections and have a little fun in between all the hard work.
Lilliana is currently a senior business consultant at Ernst & Young advising large companies on how to better understand and effectively engage with their customers.
