What drew you to the HLGU MAL program?

I was participating in a community meeting with various instructors and leaders of HLGU. They were talking about their mission and the “why” they felt this program was important. I was drawn to their sincerity, values of the university, and most importantly, the length of the program fit my personal needs. I had been looking for the right program because I knew I could commit to 12-13 months but not 24 months.

What was it like balancing schoolwork and a career?

Overall, it was challenging at first adjusting to the needs of the program, balancing work and ensuring my wife was not ignored in the process, but once I figured out the rhythm of balancing expectations and home life, it became much easier. The expectations were so clearly laid out with each class that it enabled me to manage the phases appropriately. It was not easy, but the structure helped mitigate the stress.

How has your MAL degree affected/benefited your career?

It was the missing piece personally and professionally. I feel so much better personally because I achieved what I set out to do. Professionally, the lack of a graduate degree minimizes opportunities, and I wanted to make sure that I would be prepared should the need arise. It was also one of the few times that classwork could be transitioned into real work.

What stands out to you about your experience?

The speed of it all; it comes at you very fast and then suddenly it is over. The variability of the courses every five weeks increased my level of commitment and accountability. Both students and instructors were very committed to the process, expectations, and values of the program and truly pushed each other to succeed. As a professional, I learned so much that I use on a daily basis.

What would you say to others who are interested in earning an MAL?

Don’t be afraid. It is worth every penny and will be over before you know it.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I learned so much about me and how to become a better leader. Most of all I look back on the experience as a time of growth, spirituality, and fun.

What drew you to the HLGU MAL program?

The Masters of Arts in Leadership program interested me because I wanted to improve my leadership skills. I have never had a formal leadership training course, though I have held many leadership positions. This program seemed like something that could help me become a better leader and, in the process, help the organizations of which I am a part. Additionally, the coursework could be completed without taking a year off from my medical practice.

How has your MAL degree affected/benefited your career?

The MAL degree has affected my career in several ways. It has taught me skills that will continually improve the quality of the leadership provided to my organizations. It has also allowed me to identify and correct the leadership mistakes that I have made in the past and hopefully [help me] not repeat them in the future. The degree has opened up potential doors for certification as a physician executive.

What stands out to you about your experience?

I didn’t think that a program that was totally online would be as good as an in-class program. Let me say that I was totally wrong about that. This program was very captivating and I learned a lot from the online experience. The breadth of knowledge that my cohort brought to the table was another outstanding experience. We learned from each other.

What was it like balancing schoolwork and a career?

Balancing schoolwork while working full time as a physician had its challenges and required a lot of discipline. A lot of it had to be done late into the evening and on weekends when I wasn’t on-call. “Vacation” time was spent writing papers and finishing the capstone project.  It was a pretty rough year for me and my family.  Many weekend activities and holiday activities had to be sacrificed.

What would you say to others who are interested in earning an MAL?

Don’t miss out on this wonderful learning experience! Even those who have been in leadership roles for years can benefit from this program. You don’t have to be in a formal leadership role for the MAL to have an impact on you and your organization. True leaders are found at all levels in an organization. Don’t cut yourself short just because you may not be the CEO. You CAN make a difference!