Going Back to School After 50

I am always going to be interested in pushing myself to stay active and be a lifelong learner.

I retired from Kaiser Permanente after 37 years as an Ob/Gyn physician. In 2007, I won the Kaiser Permanente National Diversity RJ Erickson award for my work using analytics to improve physician service scores. I was also a top ten innovation award winner the same year by Diversity, Inc Magazine. 

• Why did you choose Saint Mary's College?

  I chose Saint Mary’s College based on several factors. My daughter had graduated from Saint Mary's and had a great experience. The EMBA program was highly rated and less expensive than other schools. The school was close to where I live. The program had flexible scheduling and was a hybrid program – on-campus and online. Finally, the culture of the school was of high ethical standards.
   

• What was the most valuable thing you learned in the Executive MBA program?

  That I wasn’t “too” old to go back to school and learn new skills. There was a fear that I wouldn’t do well. My instructors and classmates were very helpful so that I would succeed.
   

• What did you learn about yourself?

  I realized I still had the ability to learn new skills. Not only that, I realized I had the patience and endurance to finish the whole program. The other thing I learned is that I am always going to be interested in pushing myself to stay active and be a lifelong learner.
   

• How did the program benefit your personal and professional growth?

  At my stage in life being retired, that remains to be seen. There is age discrimination and I hope that getting my MBA will show that I still have things to offer. Things don’t always reveal themselves as to their value at the current moment. It was years before my MPH program became valuable when I got into leadership roles. As Steve Jobs said, it may be years before the dots line up. Patience is a wonderful virtue.
   

• Discuss your classroom and online experience

  I tried both the pure on campus and the hybrid program. Between the two, I much preferred the hybrid. While I enjoyed being on campus, the San Ramon site was more modern and comfortable to spend the day in. It was also close to home. The hybrid portion was also usually recorded which made it much easier to review materials after the lecture. Having class every other Saturday also gave me some free weekends.
   

• What capstone project or travel trip did you go on?

  Our capstone project was with the nonprofit organization, Oasis. A few of us went to their annual festival to help out and learn more about their organization. It was a fun day time trip. I also took the trip to Japan which was an amazing adventure. I really enjoyed it and would recommend it to any student who has the time and can afford this optional course.
   

• What advice would you give someone considering pursuing their MBA?

  Have a clear idea of what your goals are. Know the different programs that are offered so that you find the program that fits you well. Consider taking some online courses if you are going into analytics so you have a basic understanding before starting the classes. It really makes a difference. Check out different banks for financing your student loans as the rates vary widely. Have the support of your spouse and workplace or it can become a lot tougher. Make friends with your classmates. They come from a variety of backgrounds and you can all help each other. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Try to buy your books used. Apply for a scholarship grant. There are several that are available. Participate in class. It makes a big difference. Have fun. I miss it now that the program is over.