Who exactly is an Executive MBA? Meet four of the Georgia Tech Executive MBA (EMBA) program’s incoming students, whose expertise spans the globe in a vast variety of industries and backgrounds. These four students will be starting their transformational 17-month EMBA experience at the Scheller College of Business this August.
Could you be the next Scheller Executive MBA? The EMBA program is still accepting applications for its fall 2020 start. To speak with an advisor about how your experience and goals may fit with the program, schedule a consultation here.
Soraya Kassamali
Senior director, Enterprise HR Technology
Cox Enterprises
Why did you pick Scheller’s EMBA program?
After sitting in the EMBA information sessions and chatting informally with people during program social hours, I was excited to see the diversity in careers, tenure, positions, and ethnicity that were present at Scheller. This drew me in immediately. I will make new friends, build relationships, learn from others as they learn from me, and exponentially grow from the program itself.
What background and experience are you excited to bring to your cohort?
When looking at the stats in the EMBA brochure, HR and other back-office functions make up less than one percent of the cohort. I fall in this category and feel that I can bring a plethora of experience on how HR impacts the bottom line and supports the business functions that directly impact revenue and growth.
What do you want your future classmates to know about you?
I have traveled more internationally than in the U.S.. I love to explore off-the-path cities and immerse myself in culture. I was born in Canada, studied abroad in Morocco, my family is from Kenya, and I did an expat assignment in India.
One of my greatest personal accomplishments is losing 80 pounds. I was obese since childhood and plus size starting from high school through adulthood. After my divorce, I needed to focus on something, so I picked me. So, if you ever want to work out or grab a healthy meal, I am all in.
Steve Mok
Manager, Pharmacy Services
Director, Health Outcomes and Analytics Fellowship
Wolters Kluwer
Why did you pick Scheller’s EMBA program?
In my current role at a global information services company, I oversee the application of advanced technologies to deliver clinical content to physicians, nurses, and pharmacists at the point of patient care. Therefore, it's important to both me and my employer to further my education at a business school with deep domain expertise and understanding in how technology is changing the way we work and interact with each other.
What background and experience are you excited to bring to your cohort?
I'm a pharmacist by training who ended up working in the IT field and I'm excited to share the lessons I've learned during that transition. Also, it's no secret that healthcare in the U.S. is rife with inefficiencies and I look forward to brainstorming with my classmates to find ideas to help these professionals care for patients more effectively.
What do you want your future classmates to know about you?
I have a passion for teaching and mentoring. I have directed three residencies and one fellowship program, so cut me off if I'm on my soapbox for too long. I have a goal of traveling to a new country each year so that the number matches my age.
Gustavo Rodrigues
Executive Director, Customer Fulfillment
NCR Corporation
Why did you pick Scheller’s EMBA program?
Georgia Tech is a top-ranked global institution and the EMBA offers a perfect combination of technology and business. The institution is located in a strategic technological area in Atlanta, allowing intense interaction with people from multiple backgrounds.
What background and experience are you excited to bring to your cohort?
I am excited to bring my experience working, leading, and living in different countries.
What do you want your future classmates to know about you?
I’m Brazilian and love outdoor activities: hiking, cycling, scuba diving, and 4-wheel driving.
Tevin Washington
Associate Construction Manager
Atkins Global Member of SNC Lavalin Group
Why did you pick the GT EMBA Program?
Georgia Tech’s EMBA degree is the representation of a world-renowned education and an experience that is second to none. I look forward to collaborating with team members and utilizing my critical thinking and problem-solving skills to achieve success.
What background and experience are you excited to bring to your cohort?
I am a results-driven leader who possesses a strong tech-savvy background with skills in customer service, team building, and achieving winning outcomes.
What do you want your future classmates to know about you?
During my undergraduate studies from 2008 to 2012, I was a team captain and starting quarterback for Georgia Tech’s football team for two and a half years. I am a firm believer that there are no shortcuts to success!