Executive MBA (EMBA) Testimonials

Ana Larrea-Albert

"My experience at FAU's Executive MBA Program was truly fruitful and enriching. On one hand you have the expected elements that come with a reputable program like FAU’s EMBA such as extraordinary faculty, relevant and engaging subject matter, and a phenomenal support team. As a matter of fact, I would say the group behind the program, starting with Vegar with his vision and leadership, Sybil, Rohan, Megan, our trusted IT magician “T” and many more, they are really the differentiating factor with all the other programs out there. Having a team helping you through the tough times and celebrating the good ones with you is invaluable.

'On the other hand, there were several unexpected aspects that made this experience exceptional. The first one that comes to mind is having the opportunity to explore the world of academic research and realizing accomplishments I would have never imagined before joining the program. Thanks to Professor Daniel Rottig and his suggestion that I joined the Academy of International Business South-East (AIB-SE) Chapter, I have been presenting my research for 4 years and won the Monmouth Best Masters Paper Award in 2014, in competition with other master students from universities from around the world. Professor Rottig and Professor Steven Smith both encouraged my interest in research and thanks to the high standards they set for their students, the quality of my work warranted to have my award-wining research published by a German academic publishing company. Now my work is part of the universal library of knowledge and I am a published author. As a side connection, my participation in the AIB-SE lead me to collaborating with professors on research that I presented at the World Maritime University in Malmo, Sweden, the graduate school of the United Nation’s International Maritime Organization (IMO), in front of dignitaries, scholars and professionals from around the world. I could have never expected this to happen.

'Another unexpected experience was the result of a well thought out and worked on Individual Development Plan that I crafted under the guidance of John Mattone during his executive coaching sessions. Not only do I update my plan with loftier goals every year, but the results from my focused efforts have lead me to achievements such as becoming a Vice President by age 35, being asked to be part of a board, becoming a published author, among many others. There are still quite a few ambitious ideas on that list and thanks to the insights and encouragement I received from John, I know how to focus my strengths to achieve them one at a time.

'I am forever inspired and grateful for my time at FAU’s Executive MBA program and will follow Jordan Zimmerman’s advice given today at the Business Leader of the Year ceremony honoring ADT’s Nader Gursahaney to "learn, earn and return”, hoping to continue giving back to the FAU community."