Yonnique Goliath
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 South African student Yonnique Goliath. She works as Director at Yoo Conduct, a consulting company that provides corporate governance and company secretarial consulting services to non-profit and small to medium size companies. Yonnique joined our Online track in May 2020.
FAST FACTS
- Nationality: South African
- Start programme: May 2020
- Entry age: 30 years
- Track: Online
- Company: Yoo Conduct
- Job title: Director
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO PURSUE AN MBA?
I decided to pursue an MBA to further develop my entrepreneurial and analytical skills, specifically relating to operational analysis, digitisation, and sustainability. In addition, I wanted an opportunity to expand my network into different markets for a more diversified learning experience.
WHICH SKILLS DO YOU WANT TO REFINE DURING THE ONLINE TRACK?
I wanted to refine certain analytical skills required for decision-making and to improve the development of my business plans. In doing so, ensuring that the plans remain in alignment with digital capabilities and societal needs. I also wanted a better understanding of my leadership style and how to communicate more effectively.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE FOR THE MAASTRICHTMBA PROGRAMME?
MaastrichtMBA attracts a diverse, international group of participants. It is a well accredited university, with a competitive fee structure, and an inclusive learning environment.
WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE ONLINE TRACK SETUP OF THE BLENDED EDUCATIONAL FORMAT WITH THE TEN ONLINE COURSES AND THREE EDUCATIONAL WEEKS?
I have enjoyed the convenience of the online track, and also look forward to the opportunity to meet the other participants during the educational weeks. Doing the MBA online is by no means less demanding, but the webinars and group assignment discussions have worked really well. I like the participatory manner in which the modules and meetings are structured, the general overview of the modules, and that the assignments are relevant and applied rather than purely academic.
HOW DO YOU THINK YOU WILL BENEFIT FROM THIS ONLINE EXECUTIVE MBA?
I have already benefited from the insights shared and discussions held with other participants on specific topics on the forum discussion platforms, as well as through the coaching sessions with my leadership coach.
The connections and friendships created along the way are invaluable. I also appreciate the feedback and the exposure to topics out of my comfort zone.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST ENJOYABLE PART OF THE COURSE SO FAR?
During the Leadership & Change Management course, we received personalised Insights Discovery profiles through which I appreciated learning about my work and decision-making style, as well as critical thinking during change projects. I also enjoy the individual assignment during the Sustainability course, where we had to access the corporate responsibility practices of a chosen firm.
AND HOW DO YOU EXPERIENCE THE MAASTRICHTMBA PROGRAM AFTER THE CORONA BREAKOUT?
With the online track, there has not been much disruption to the programme. The educational week still took place, although online, and due to the flexible nature of the course, I was able to postpone my attendance to when we will hopefully be able to meet in Maastricht again.
ANY TIPS FOR SOMEONE THINKING ABOUT APPLYING FOR MAASTRICHTMBA?
Connect with current students and consider what it is that you want to achieve through the MBA so that programme coordinators and students can enable you, where possible.