How did you fit your education into your life?
I was working full time through the master’s program as well as building my own business.
At first, I wasn’t sure if this would be possible from a time management perspective. I really wanted an educational experience that didn’t pause my career and life, and this seemed like a great fit towards that goal. Because I live in Ireland, the time zones were actually helpful in finding courses that fit into my schedule. Sometimes it was late in the evening, but it worked!
I also loved that I could spend part of a summer on campus, enjoying Boston and my classes fully without my work commitments. I had some of my favorite memories that summer.
This program’s structure overall taught me how to manage my time and energy and grow my resilience while also giving me a fantastic on-campus college experience.
How has your Harvard Extension School (HES) experience helped you throughout your career journey?
Several classes completely changed my career trajectory.
Professor Paul Green’s organizational behavior project led to a promotion at my previous job and company. I was able to present my enhancement project to senior leadership and get noticed throughout my department.
So many other classes also contributed to my outlook and skillset. Furthermore, the Harvard brand propelled my own personal brand and network. My HES experience enhanced every area of my career.
What did you learn about your own capabilities through the rigor of your coursework? Were there any moments in particular that pushed you to grow?
I learned that I am capable of a far larger skillset than I could even fathom. So many classes pushed me to higher thinking on societal subjects.
One personal favorite was Emerging Markets: Investment Theories and Practice taught by Peter Merber. This wasn’t a subject that I had a lot of insight into and I left the class with such a different outlook on the world and investment. On the flip side, it was a class that really challenged me and my thinking.
There were moments throughout the degree where professors could see my potential and pushed me accordingly. Although it was difficult at the moment, they all shaped me into the person and professional I am today. The biggest appreciation I have for the HES is the faculty. Every educator truly cares about you, truly sees you, and wants you to learn and grow!
What does earning a Harvard degree mean to you?
I am from a small town in Egypt. Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought a Harvard degree was in the stars for me. I always dreamt of potentially studying in a big university but didn’t know how to make it possible.
HES makes big dreams accessible and a reality for so many people around the world. It fits and enhances your life in so many ways, and I am so grateful for this amazing experience. Getting to bring my parents to Cambridge for Commencement week was the most surreal and grounding time of my life. I am forever grateful!
Describe your Extension experience in one word.
Exuberant
