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Eddie Hodges
Associate Director PMO
Praeses
Program/Concentration: Jack Welch MBA
PLEASE SHARE MORE ABOUT YOUR PROFESSIONAL ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES AT PRAESES.:
I work for a software services provider that designs and implements software tailored to the needs of our clients to optimize business applications and processes. While enrolled in JWMI’s MBA program, my role was Project Manager. In this role, I managed the development and implementation of custom software applications for our clients.
WHY WERE YOU LOOKING TO GET AN MBA?:
Earning an MBA would be instrumental in pushing my career to the next level. The tools and knowledge learned in the MBA program would help me to form a leadership mindset to effectively create visions, manage changes, and execute strategies in my organization.
HOW HAS THE JWMI CURRICULUM HELPED YOU IN YOUR CAREER?
After graduation, I received a promotion to Associate Director PMO. In my new role, I lead the Project Management Organization, develop automated reporting, forecast, and execute best practices for the team. In the program, I learned the importance of relying on data to share a story, being candid, gaining acceptance for new ideas, and effectively managing different types of team members.
LOOKING BACK AT WHAT YOU THOUGHT ABOUT AN ONLINE PROGRAM WHEN YOU FIRST EMBARKED, WHAT WAS YOUR OVERALL IMPRESSION NOW? DID IT MEET YOUR EXPECTATIONS VIA DQ BOARDS, EOP VIDEOS, FACULTY ETC?:
The professors in the JWMI MBA program are outstanding. Not only do they thoroughly understand the course material, but their real-world experience provides students with valuable knowledge. I could form relationships with professors, which helped make the courses more personal. I received exceptional feedback that helped continue my growth.
The DQ boards were a great way to see how people related the material to different industries. I also formed great friendships with some of my classmates, and we remain to stay in touch with each other.
HOW DID YOU NAVIGATE JOB, FAMILY, AND WORK? WHAT STRATEGIES DID YOU IMPLEMENT TO GET IT DONE?:
Honestly, it wasn’t easy sometimes. I have a demanding full-time job, a family, and too many other things to list that I have to juggle. Adding school to an already demanding life took a lot of work. I knew there would be sacrifices, but the reward would be well worth it. I tried my best to stick to a routine to manage my time, and I sometimes struggled to hit critical deadlines. Overall, the workload required for the MBA program was relatively easy to manage, and it did not interfere with my job responsibilities and other aspects of my life.
WAS THERE A PARTICULAR PROFESSOR OR MEMBER OF THE STAFF THAT YOU FELT HELPED YOU TO EXCEL? PLEASE ELABORATE.:
Professors Mercedes Lopez and Robert Edwab had the most significant impact on me. Their approach made me feel valued and appreciated. Both were available when I needed a one-on-one discussion, and they gave valuable advice when asked. They provided sound feedback throughout the course that allowed me to improve week after week.
WHAT’S BEEN YOUR MOST REWARDING EXPERIENCE IN THE PROGRAM?:
Graduating with a 4.0 GPA was an important goal that I was able to achieve. There were a few times when I was unsure I could achieve it, but I maintained High Honors through the end of the journey. Being recognized as a Welch Scholar of the graduating class felt amazing. Additionally, there are so many things I learned that I use on a daily basis. Getting through the program is one thing, but using the knowledge gained to shape an executive presence is what really matters.
IN JUST A FEW WORDS, DESCRIBE WHAT “LEADERSHIP” MEANS TO YOU.:
Leadership is taking people to places they would likely not go to alone. It is the ability to create a vision, form a passionate team, and execute a strategy to deliver the best results.
PLEASE SHARE ANY ADVICE FOR NEW STUDENTS EMBARKING ON THE MBA JOURNEY.:
Do not go into the MBA program to get a degree to get a better job. Approach it with the mindset of learning valuable skills to help you become a better leader. Learn to implement core learnings into your leadership style, and the promotions will ultimately happen for you.
No matter how tough it gets, stay focused. Always remember that the end goal will be worth it.
Connect with Eddie Hodges on LinkedIn
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