A higher ceiling: How UFred’s EMBA has expanded Susanne’s vision of leadership

Susanne’s studies have encouraged her to think more deliberately about communication. She now considers whether each contribution adds meaning to a discussion. Her EMBA is also deepening her understanding of group dynamics and how people work toward a shared result.

“I also learned how to prioritize people over outcomes. In the end, that to me, was a deeply invaluable lesson.”

Expanding her ambitious career vision

As Susanne strengthens that leadership foundation, she is identifying new ways to connect the different parts of her professional background.

“I came to UFred with the dream of becoming a Chief Marketing Officer for a Fortune 500 company. That still appeals to me, but so does becoming a Learning Development Director or Chief Learning Officer.”

Marketing remains one possibility, while her experience in instructional design, combined with her growing management capabilities, is opening another potential path in learning and development leadership.

Rather than narrowing her ambitions to one position, the EMBA is helping Susanne recognize several ways she could contribute at a senior level.

Making room for higher education

Susanne’s ambitions have not required her to put her working life on hold.

“UFred’s program is built for the working individual. I also work two careers and have other responsibilities such as exercise and caring for others.”

The one-course-at-a-time model allows her to concentrate on one subject during each eight-week block while continuing to meet her professional and personal commitments.

Susanne typically writes discussion posts early in the week and reads late in the evening. Even with a full schedule, studying has become an experience she genuinely enjoys.

“The textbook relaxes me. It keeps me calm and grounded. It’s enjoyable to read.”

Consistent study has helped her perform strongly without stepping away from the professional experience that continues to shape her career goals. University support, current course materials and engaged faculty help sustain her enthusiasm for learning.

Growing alongside accomplished peers

“My UFred experience has been phenomenal. I made some really lovely friends and saw that I am on par with some of the great minds in business, some of the great leaders, many of which are now my classmates.”

Working closely with experienced classmates has given Susanne opportunities to exchange ideas, navigate group dynamics and practice a people-centred approach to leadership.

Presenting in every course is also helping Susanne strengthen a skill she felt she had not fully developed before UFred. Through that participation, she is becoming more confident communicating her ideas and contributing alongside other accomplished professionals.

Seeing possibility with new clarity

Susanne is currently completing her EMBA, and her career story is still unfolding. She is developing a stronger theoretical foundation and a clearer understanding of the leader she wants to become. Her ambitions now extend across more than one field, supported by a growing belief in the value she can bring at a senior level. She is confident about where she’s headed.

"UFred is the way to gain significant leadership skills in a short period of time and to have all your dreams become possible.”

The higher ceiling Susanne sees for herself reflects a broader sense of possibility grounded in the knowledge, skills and relationships she is building through the EMBA program.

“Because of UFred, the future has no limits for me. None.”