Fatima Laher, a graduate of the Executive Track in the online degree program focused on Innovation and Entrepreneurship, has always been captivated by the dynamic nature of new ideas and the excitement of problem-solving. Her career journey has traversed various roles in corporate settings, consulting, and entrepreneurial ventures, all while maintaining a steadfast commitment to making a significant impact.
Throughout her career, Fatima has demonstrated remarkable adaptability, working across multiple industries and consistently seeking challenges that push her boundaries. Her experiences in corporate environments and consulting roles have equipped her with a strategic mindset, but as her passion for entrepreneurship grew, she recognized the need to invest more deliberately in her own innovative ideas.
The online degree program in Innovation and Entrepreneurship was particularly appealing to Fatima due to its blend of rigorous academic content and practical application. The flexibility of the program allowed her to balance her studies with her professional commitments, which was crucial in her decision-making process. Additionally, the chance to engage with a diverse group of international peers enriched her learning experience, providing varied insights into innovation and leadership.
Feeling somewhat stagnant before enrolling, Fatima reflects, “I realized I was holding back and needed a shift in perspective. After exploring short courses online, I discovered the fully online degree program and knew it was the right fit for me.” This decision marked a pivotal moment in her journey.
During her studies, Fatima not only developed and tested innovative business concepts but also honed her strategic thinking skills. She gained a comprehensive understanding of the financial, operational, and human aspects of launching and scaling new ventures. “The program offered a fantastic opportunity to explore various facets of entrepreneurship,” she remarked. The collaborative team project was particularly valuable, allowing her to take a real business idea through the stages of planning and validation.
Adopting an Entrepreneurial Mindset
Fatima’s educational experience significantly transformed her approach to challenges and opportunities. She expressed her enthusiasm for design thinking and organizational design, areas she had not previously encountered, which broadened her perspective immensely.
Emerging from the program, Fatima not only acquired a robust set of business skills but also cultivated a confident entrepreneurial mindset. She felt empowered to take initiative, navigate uncertainties, and lead with clarity. Inspired by her coursework, she noted, “I found myself engaging in more meaningful conversations with clients and colleagues alike.”
Fatima’s journey serves as a powerful inspiration for professionals contemplating their next career move, whether it involves launching a startup, driving innovation within an organization, or making a career transition.
For those considering a similar educational path, Fatima emphasizes the importance of understanding your motivations. She advises, “Be clear about your reasons for pursuing this path. What do you hope to achieve? Aligning your goals with your outcomes will help you dedicate the necessary time and effort to succeed.”
Reflecting on her journey to graduation, Fatima encourages others to embrace the learning process. “While tools like AI can simplify tasks, the depth of knowledge I gained from engaging with the material was invaluable. I took the time to delve into the content, which was both fascinating and thought-provoking, ultimately broadening my worldview.”
Fatima’s experience underscores several key principles for anyone considering the program: it’s never too late to invest in personal growth, learning alongside a global community can be transformative, and meaningful entrepreneurship begins with a clear sense of purpose.
As she embarks on her post-graduation journey, Fatima is committed to applying her newfound knowledge to initiatives that resonate with her values. Whether she is advising, building, or leading, her dedication to impactful innovation is evident—and this is just the beginning of her exciting journey.