Amado Amesquita-Santos ’28, is blending his previous professional experience and the knowledge and skills from Johnson & Wales University Online’s MBA – Human Resources Management program to prepare for his future. Learn more about his online learning experience including the support from staff and faculty, work/life balance and the impact online education has had on him.
Why JWU Online For Your Education?
After spending several years away from my hometown, I decided to pursue my master’s degree in Rhode Island so I could stay close to my family and friends. When I was considering different schools, several friends told me that Johnson & Wales had a strong Human Resources program. I did my own research and discovered that they were right. Now that I am a student, I get to experience the quality of the program and the support of the University for myself.
Favorite Part Of The MBA – Human Resources Management Program
The most rewarding part of this program has been realizing that, in my previous positions, I was already doing many of the things I am now studying. I had experience supervising employees, training team members, resolving conflicts and helping with hiring, but I did not always know the professional terms or theories behind those responsibilities. In every class, I enjoy comparing what I am learning with situations I have experienced at work. It makes the material more interesting because I now understand the reasons behind many of the things I did in the past. That realization has been very rewarding.
I also enjoy learning from classmates across the country. Everyone brings different career backgrounds, cultures and life experiences into our online classroom.
Professional Goals
Looking ahead, I hope to move into Human Resources and eventually grow into a leadership position. I do not have one specific job title in mind because I am still learning about the different directions my career could take. What I do know is that I want to work closely with people and help create a workplace where employees feel supported, respected and able to grow. My education at JWU Online is helping me understand where my previous experiences, psychology background, bilingual abilities and interest in people can take me next.
Dedicated Support From JWU Online Staff
The support I have received from JWU Online has made a real difference in my experience. The admissions team stayed in contact with me and made sure every part of my application was completed. They made a process that could have been stressful feel simple. My financial planner checks that everything is in good standing each semester and even presented me with a scholarship opportunity. My academic advisor is always an email or phone call away and makes sure I remain on the right path. When I asked him how long it would take me to graduate, he told me not to worry about the date and to complete the program at my own pace. That response made me feel like I was more than just a number.
Balancing Work And Life
Balancing school, work and my personal life is not always easy, even though I have always been good at managing my time. You have to find a routine that works for you. I work on my weekly assignments a little every day because completing everything in one day can create unnecessary stress. I also know that I work best late at night, when everyone is sleeping and I can disconnect from the world and focus. People hear about the flexibility of online education so often that they may think, “That is what everyone says.” Once you experience it, you realize that everyone was right. I can work full time, enjoy my personal life and continue my education without being on campus.
Advice For Future Students
For anyone considering JWU Online, I would say to enroll because it is something you truly want to do. Choose a program or concentration that grabs your attention and will keep you motivated, especially during difficult assignments. Once you know what you want, apply. The admissions team will help you through the process.
After enrolling, learn how to navigate the different platforms you will use and where to find your assignments, course materials and support services. Remember, you are on a mission. Move at the pace that works for you, but do not lose sight of the goal. Every assignment, every course and every challenge you overcome brings you one step closer to earning your degree.
The Impact Of Online Education
Be excited about becoming a JWU Online student! I have studied at different colleges, lived in different states and even studied abroad. Those experiences taught me that education is not limited to a physical classroom. At JWU Online, I have access to professors, advisors, support services and classmates from across the country. Each person brings a different career, culture and life story into the classroom. Those connections have made my education more meaningful.
JWU Online has allowed me to stay close to my family and friends in Rhode Island, begin a new career and continue working toward my MBA. My educational journey has taken me to many places, but right now, I am exactly where I am supposed to be.
Your Future Begins With JWU Online
At JWU Online, we’re here to support you every step of the way. To get started, simply submit a free application, complete our brief Request Info form or contact our dedicated admissions team directly at [email protected].