How did your education here contribute to your professional success?
My education played a pivotal role in shaping my professional success by equipping me with a strong foundation in critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership. The academic environment fostered my ability to adapt to new challenges, which has been essential in my roles as a Project Manager, Instructional Designer, and in leadership positions like my current role as a Training Manager at Hawaiian Airlines. Through my education, I also developed a deep understanding of instructional design principles, which has been critical to creating engaging, learner-centered programs in both corporate and non-profit settings.
Additionally, the exposure to diverse subjects and collaborative projects during my education enhanced my communication and teamwork skills, preparing me to work effectively across industries. These competencies, combined with a continuous drive for learning, have allowed me to excel in complex, fast-paced environments, from designing training programs to leading teams in dynamic corporate settings like Hawaiian Airlines.
Can you recall a specific moment or experience during your time that had a significant impact on you?
One of the most impactful experiences during my time pursuing my Master of Business was my involvement with the Hogan Entrepreneurs program. This program not only pushed me academically but also helped me develop a mindset of innovation and resilience, which has been invaluable throughout my career.
Working closely with the faculty involved in this program, I had the privilege of engaging in one-on-one discussions with some truly exceptional professors and mentors. These interactions went beyond the classroom, where faculty would challenge my thinking, encourage new ideas, and offer invaluable guidance on how to apply business concepts in real-world situations. Their personalized feedback and encouragement helped me build the confidence to take on leadership roles in my career, from managing complex projects to leading training initiatives.
The combination of the structured learning in the Hogan Entrepreneurs program and the personalized mentorship from faculty had a profound impact on my professional journey. It not only honed my entrepreneurial mindset but also reinforced the importance of strong leadership, collaboration, and continuous learning—principles I carry with me to this day.
How did your education here shape your perspective and personal growth?
My education profoundly shaped both my professional perspective and personal growth by broadening my understanding of leadership, innovation, and adaptability. The diverse experiences I encountered, particularly through the Hogan Entrepreneurs program during my Master of Business, pushed me to think critically about solving real-world problems and taught me the value of collaboration and resilience.
Working closely with exceptional faculty members in one-on-one settings played a pivotal role in shaping my approach to leadership. These interactions fostered not only a deeper understanding of business principles but also a strong sense of accountability and empathy—traits that have been integral in my roles as a Training Manager, Project Manager, and Instructional Designer.
On a personal level, the program instilled a growth mindset, encouraging me to continuously seek improvement and new opportunities for learning. This mindset has been a key factor in my success across various industries, from corporate training at Hawaiian Airlines to managing complex instructional design projects at Travelers Insurance. My education provided me with a well-rounded perspective, allowing me to blend creativity, leadership, and strategic thinking in everything I do.
How have you continued to invest in your professional development since graduating?
Since graduating, I have been committed to continuously investing in my professional development through a combination of formal learning, hands-on experience, and personal growth. I actively use mobile and web technologies, alongside learning platforms like YouTube and LinkedIn Learning, to stay current with the latest industry trends and tools. Whether it’s mastering new instructional design methods or enhancing my leadership skills, these platforms provide valuable insights that I regularly apply in my role as a Training Manager at Hawaiian Airlines.
Beyond technical skills, I have also focused on expanding my spiritual and spatial awareness. Self-improvement podcasts have become a key part of my personal development, helping me cultivate mindfulness and emotional intelligence—qualities that enhance my ability to lead and collaborate more effectively at work. Additionally, by deep diving into the work I do, I’ve developed a stronger passion for creating meaningful, engaging learning experiences for others. This continuous learning approach keeps me motivated and allows me to adapt to new challenges with confidence.
How has your education influenced your personal goals and achievements?
My education has significantly influenced both my personal goals and achievements by encouraging me to think outside the box and equipping me with the leadership skills necessary to excel. The small, close-knit campus community allowed me to form meaningful connections and early networking opportunities within Hawaii. These relationships helped me build a foundation of trust and collaboration that has been invaluable in my career, particularly in leadership roles like my current position as Training Manager at Hawaiian Airlines.
Being mentored by outstanding professionals on campus not only enhanced my leadership abilities but also boosted my confidence to pursue opportunities I might not have considered before. The skills and mindset I developed gave me the courage to apply for challenging roles across diverse industries, from instructional design at HMSA to managing training programs at a major airline. My education empowered me to set ambitious goals and provided the tools to achieve them, both professionally and personally.
