Each week, JWMI profiles students and alumni in its new featured series, “Winning Voices.” Learn about our diverse community and what sets our program apart from those who have experienced it. For more great “Winning Voices” content, click here.
Kelsey Dorn
Human Resources Business Partner
Discover Financial Services
Program/Concentration: Jack Welch MBA Human Resources Concentration
HOW HAS THE JWMI CURRICULUM HELPED YOU IN YOUR CAREER?
It was a goal of mine to move into a strategic role that works to develop company leaders, and I am proud to have started a new role as an HR Business Partner a few months ago. My continued education at JWMI strengthened my qualifications for my new position.
I also received my SHRM-CP certification while completing this program. Many concepts from my MBA courses overlapped and reinforced my study process. Going through my MBA program parallel to this certification process undoubtedly helped me pass my exam!
DID YOU FIND THE CURRICULUM WAS IMMEDIATELY APPLICABLE? PLEASE EXPLAIN.:
I noticed immediate growth in my communication style and methods after my first quarter at JWMI. I can better communicate at all business levels and understand different perspectives, roles, strategies, etc. With each course, I was able to hone my executive presence and lead more confidently. It has allowed me to communicate more influentially and add profound value to the projects and relationships I cultivate.
HOW DID YOU NAVIGATE JOB, FAMILY, AND WORK? WHAT STRATEGIES DID YOU IMPLEMENT TO GET IT DONE?:
I am beyond grateful that this program allowed me enough flexibility to still be present at work, in hobbies, and with my family. While this program is a time commitment, I could still achieve many significant milestones, like getting married, moving to a new state, and even a few ski trips!
That said, staying accountable for your studies takes effort and planning. It was helpful that each course had the same schedule and general due dates. It allowed me to commit to the same weekly nights, so my friends, family, and I had the exact expectations and routine. I also made sure to take advantage of the many media sources. Many books were available as audiobooks, and there were always many videos to listen to, making it easy to sneak in some studying during my commute or downtime.
IN JUST A FEW WORDS, DESCRIBE WHAT “LEADERSHIP” MEANS TO YOU.:
Throughout this program, I have learned that leadership is not just about having attributes like emotional intelligence, passion, humility, or integrity – it is also the ability to empower and inspire these types of qualities in others.
Additionally, a lesson from Jack that has considerably influenced my leadership is feeling comfortable not being the most intelligent person in the room. As he says, “When you are a leader, your job is to have all the questions.” This simple definition of leadership has completely shifted my perspective. I focus on what I can learn from others and how to utilize everyone’s talents best. With this philosophy, I ensure that I always have a growth mindset and never miss an opportunity to learn.
PLEASE SHARE ANY ADVICE FOR NEW STUDENTS EMBARKING ON THE MBA JOURNEY.:
The advice I would give to incoming students is to take your time. Committing to all the material is sometimes tough, but investing in your personal development is a privilege.
Also, pay attention to the results – I am surprised daily by how much my studies naturally shine through. It is easy to overlook, but it is essential to reflect on the real moments of growth, no matter how small.
Connect with Kelsey Dorn on LinkedIn
For more information on the Jack Welch Management Institute, visit us.