Fabienne Kramer
Our students are the core of the MaastrichtMBA programme. Students with a broad diversity on nationality, age and even professional background. The insights and thoughts of our MBA students describe the true experience of MaastrichtMBA. This time we talked with our Dutch student Fabienne Kramer. She works as Project Manager at Koninklijk Conservatorium, a conservatoire in The Hague, providing higher education in music and dance. Fabienne joined our Online track in May 2020.
FAST FACTS
- Nationality: Dutch
- Start programme: May 2020
- Entry age: 39 years
- Track: Online
- Company: Koninklijk Conservatorium
- Job title: Project Manager
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO PURSUE AN MBA?
I decided to pursue an MBA in order to continue developing myself and get more expertise in different fields of management. The fact that through this MBA I would also connect to people outside of my normal work environment also helped me decide to start the studies.
WHICH SKILLS DO YOU WANT TO REFINE DURING THE ONLINE TRACK?
I would like to expand my knowledge of management in general. Next to that, I would like to develop my leadership skills. The leadership development trajectory that the Online track offers, that runs parallel to the other courses will help me develop these skills in my own pace.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE FOR THE ONLINE TRACK AT MAASTRICHTMBA?
My team leader, Marlon Titre is alumnus of this MBA. When I told him that I was interested in starting to study again, he was very enthusiastic about this MBA. I am aware of the fact that the MBA has changed since he graduated, however, with all the MBA’s available, it was a starting point to look into this one.
Next to that, the focus on human leadership and the leadership development trajectory are very much aligned with what I was looking for.
WHAT ARE YOUR EXPECTATIONS OF YOUR FIRST EDUCATIONAL WEEK IN DECEMBER ON LEADING STRATEGIC CHANGE ORGANISED BY MAASTRICHT UNIVERSITY?
By the time this educational week takes place, I will be 6 months in the studies. I look forward to meeting some of my colleagues in real life and to spend some actual time with them. I hope to feel more connected to everyone after this week. Next to that, I expect the week to be very inspirational with a lot of learning and working together.
HOW DO YOU THINK YOU WILL BENEFIT FROM THIS ONLINE EXECUTIVE MBA?
I think I will grow as a person during this study – combining a full time job with studying brings a new kind of organisation and discipline in my life. By learning more about different fields, I hope to become more versatile and as such will be able to develop in my current job.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST ENJOYABLE PART OF THE COURSE SO FAR?
So far, there are 2 things that I have really enjoyed. During the international marketing course, the discussions in the forum and the contact with the teacher where very inspiring. During this second course, Leadership & Change, we have different teams of students which whom we meet once a week. I feel like I have learnt a lot during these conversations as we share our experiences.
AND HOW DO YOU EXPERIENCE THE MAASTRICHTMBA PROGRAMME AFTER THE CORONA BREAKOUT?
I started the programme in May, when we were in the middle of the first partial or intelligent lockdown. As I work for the university of arts The Hague, I am aware of challenges schools are facing in these times.
The online environment created for this MBA works very well for me. The fact that It is really a pity I could not start with a educational week and as such meet my co-students in person. However, this is out of anybody’s control for now. Actually, the focus on my studies, next to my job keeps me busy, which is nice.
ANY TIPS FOR SOMEONE THINKING ABOUT APPLYING FOR MAASTRICHTMBA?
Go for it! Get in touch with the MBA office, ask all your questions, then sign up!