Get to know Executive Education from the voices of the people who know best.
What better way to see how Executive Education at UT Dallas can help you achieve your goals than to hear directly from the people who have experienced it themselves. Executive Education alumni and current students, as well as faculty and staff members, have a lot to say about what you can expect from becoming a part of an Executive Education program. Our students work hard with their classmates and walk off the stage, diploma in hand, ready to advance their careers.
Student Experiences
Current Executive Education students and alumni share their academic experiences, outcomes and insights. Read their stories and discover how Executive Education programs have made an impact on their professional and personal lives.
The Academic Experience of a Lifetime
Experiences as an EMBA student
The classes expose students to many topics that you may not think about every day. I have been able to apply theories and practices from every class I have taken in this program to my job. I am very pleased with the program and the confidence it has given me.
My Experience Going Through the EMBA Program
What has your ROI been?
I am able to make better strategic decisions, both professionally and personally. I can clearly and critically assess problems and have found the courage to make the tough calls. I now prioritize my work and can motivate the team towards a common goal.
The Transition From Surviving To Thriving
The “reshaping” process
The first semester brings the heat that softens your current form to allow for reshaping. As you progress, previous course content is skillfully woven into the curriculum, providing you with a sense of comfort while at the same time, slowly building confidence.
How the Executive MBA Helped My Career
Investing in my future
At work I’ve acquired a new professional certification and been allowed to completely re-write my job description into one that fits who I am and rewards me for all the effort I’ve put in, both at work and at school. Next step – here I come!
Student Testimonials
Executive Education students, alumni, employers and partners talk about their invaluable academic experiences at the UT Dallas Jindal School of Management, providing advice, perspective and vision.
Tamer Elshamy, GLEMBA ’19
Sales Director, Fawry Banking and Payment Technology Services
An exceptional experience mixed with both cutting edge knowledge and great personal skills improvement.
Megan Lightfoot Metzger, MS LOD
As a business owner and consultant, I sought to expand my knowledge to foster the growth of both my own businesses and my clients’ ventures. For years, I thought an MBA was the natural next step, but discovering the MS in Leadership and Organizational Development (MSLOD) program felt like finding the perfect fit. Each course offered immediate, actionable insights that I could implement to enhance my businesses and support my clients.
The faculty at UT Dallas brings a wealth of expertise and real-world experience to every lesson, but what truly sets them apart is their genuine commitment to each student. Professors were always open to discussing the coursework and went beyond by offering invaluable advice tailored to my unique challenges and goals. My time at UT Dallas has made me a more effective consultant and a better person, and I’m deeply grateful for the profound impact of their mentorship and guidance.
Vinay Rao, EMBA 2021
ERP Specialist Advisor NTT Data Services
As an engineer, who made decisions mostly based on data, I was most impacted by courses like organizational behavior, c-suite leadership, and performance transformation. I also enjoyed all the finance and economics classes. These topics helped broaden my perception of what I can do for my company and community.
David Gill
After much engineering and product development experience in the semiconductor/electronic product space, I found this program to be exceptional for enriching my knowledge of the full product lifecycle. The curriculum was well balanced, engaging and formatted so individual benefits from their own studies as well as others’ perspectives through group interaction. The program is not limited to the boundaries of sourcing and purchasing but rather includes the study and tools for management of the complete product lifecycle. I have a much-improved understanding of operational considerations and a complete tool set to utilize because of the PLSCM program. It has greatly increased my contribution and success in executing my responsibilities.
Sean Seabrook, MS LOD
The UTD MS in Leadership and Organizational Development is a transformative experience. The coaching certificate provides leading industry training for coaching and the ICF exam, and the organizational consulting certificate gave me practical tools and resources to develop a consulting practice. The MS degree gave me the knowledge to grow as leader and drive change in today’s fast-moving business environment. Professors in the program have corporate backgrounds, bridging academic theory with practical application, and the program is accredited in a business school which also enhances its value and the learning experience. The program expanded my network and I’ve made some life-long friends along the way. The value and experience is outstanding!
Qiana Levy
UTDs EMBA program has surpassed my expectations. The program allowed me to maintain a demanding work schedule alongside a rigorous course load. The caliber of the professors and students, and the alignment of the course materials was exceptional. The program was well-designed and added immense value to my professional growth. Immeasurable components included the executive projects, international trip, collaboration and rich discussions with like-minded professionals. The curriculum enriched my business acumen, strategic foresight/execution, relationship-building and change management skills, as well as created enduring friendships. I am deeply appreciative and highly recommend UTDs EMBA program.
Alexander Moeller, EMBA 2017
Quality Director, Diodes Inc.
Coach Mario helped me transform into a more effective and self-aware leader. Using the syllabus and coaching guide provided by UTD as a basis to conduct our sessions, Mario was always very flexible in adjusting the content of our sessions. He thoughtfully summarized the key topics that we discussed during each session and sent them with action items we had agreed on for the following month.
Jake Henne, EMBA 2021
World Wide Technology, Client Manager SLED
As a military veteran who spent 7 years as an active duty Army officer, serving exclusively in light infantry units, I had a lot to learn as I transitioned to civilian life in June 2018. I undertook immense self-study and networking primarily via LinkedIn, but I ultimately knew that I would need to refine my business skills and prove myself. Earning an MBA was always something I was interested in, even while on active duty. However, after leaving the Army, that desire heightened immensely. I was fortunate to be accepted in to the UTD EMBA program and will be forever grateful. It has been challenging in many ways, but I have learned so much about how to think about and analyze the bigger picture, and how to communicate and collaborate with professionals from all walks of life. As a type-A personality, the EMBA program has truly challenged me to get out of my comfort zone and grow both personally and professionally. #UTD #UTDEMBA #Veteran #JSOM
Veronica Sanchez, MS LOD
I was initially drawn to the Master of Science in Organizational Development program by its reputation for providing deep, practical insights and fostering leadership skills in a collaborative learning environment. The program not only met but surpassed my expectations by delivering rigorous coursework that broadened my understanding and expertise in organizational development. What truly enhanced my experience, however, were the remarkable peers I learned alongside, whose perspectives continually enriched our discussions, as well as the dedicated mentors, professors, and faculty members who invested wholeheartedly in my growth. This journey has been immensely rewarding, and I am excited to apply my skills and knowledge to continue to drive success and inspire others.
Andrew Svatek, EMBA 2022
Director of Operations, Svatek Consulting
When researching EMBA programs to pursue it was clear early on that UTD’s EMBA was the perfect fit for me. The elite faculty, diversity of the program, and relevant and evolving curriculum were huge drivers in my decision and made it a no-brainer. I always anticipated an academic journey that would challenge me personally and professionally, but what I did not anticipate was the unbelievable camaraderie and support of my cohort that was established on the first day of orientation. I have learned as much from my classmates as I have from my professors, and I know I will leave UTD with lifelong friends and a world-class executive education. I am so grateful for the opportunity to earn an EMBA at UTD JSOM
Darrick Fitzgerald, GLEMBA ’18
Managing Consultant – Supply Chain Management Reverse Logistics Team, Verizon Wireless
GLEMBA was not just a learning experience, it was a life experience. GLEMBA was not a career pursuit, it was a life pursuit. Even today, tenets from the program impact how I think, how I approach a problem in my career and how I craft my emails. Was I promoted after I finished my degree? Yes.
Alberto Gutierrez Algren
Immediately after graduating, I was able to transition to higher position. I am very certain that without the MBA and PLSCM expertise gained through UTD and this program, I would not have had these opportunities for advancement. Additionally, I was able to utilize that knowledge, to become part of two start-up business opportunities, which I would not have even considered for fear of the unknown before earning my MBA.
Andy Miller, GLEMBA ’16
IT Operations Manager, Splunk
The GLEMBA program’s focus on global business challenges was vital in helping me to understand how my company can grow and succeed in a globally competitive landscape. The courses, interaction with peers and the exceptional faculty have empowered me to analyze and solve problems differently – essentially the program has enabled me to become a better leader.
Khaled Hallak, EMBA 2021
Bank of America, Officer, Syndicated Loan Closer
I joined the EMBA program at UT Dallas with aspirations to hone my business acumen and skillsets gathered from academia and real-world experience through both entrepreneurship and large corporate ventures. The EMBA program did not polish my current understanding; they shattered my foundation and rebuilt my business knowledge with the most cutting-edge academics through a prestigious curriculum and world-renowned professors. Throughout the rigors of this program, I quickly learned the importance and power of my cohort. With an ocean of information flowing towards you, it is impossible for one person to absorb and process on their own. I formed a tight bond with some of the brightest executive minds across an array of industries. In this program, we did more than just dissect and examine case studies from historic events; we were able to consult with real corporations in efforts to aid with ongoing and current issues. Our impact was evidenced when select corporations successfully implemented our recommendations. This program is far from easy, it will push you to new heights and you will need to reintroduce yourself to your family and friends upon graduation. On the bright side, the leaders of this program, Pamela Brady (Program Director) and Connie Imhof (Program Manager), are such genuine and caring people, you will feel like a part of a new family throughout the duration of this program. If you are looking to expand your knowledge and grow your network, the EMBA at UTD comes highly recommended.
Vinesh Reddy
Vice President, Business Process Offshore, Bank of America
The executive coaching experience was transformational. I was analyzed by my coach and was provided great recommendations to improve myself from where I was before the coaching to where I am now. I found the experience to be valuable to me personally and professionally.
Daniel Hendrickson, EMBA 2022
VP, Sr. Financial Analyst, First United Bank
The EMBA cohort means being a part of an elite group of individuals with similar drives, intelligence, and upward mobility ambitions. As a member of the cohort, I have benefited from my fellow members’ experience and industry knowledge. The EMBA program is competitive, but the cohort is out for its members’ well-being and improvement.
Business Economics has been my favorite class so far. Professor Kiser’s wealth of knowledge is absolutely world-class. Economics is not an easy subject, but he has the ability to take complex concepts and make them easy to understand.
I would recommend the UTD EMBA program as they create an environment to focus on your professional development and advance it for decades. The material and classes are fantastic, but the quality of the cohort is even more impressive.
Thomas Rodgers (EMBA 2022)
The Executive MBA program has been a fantastic experience, and the cohort has become more than just a group of students taking a class together- we have become friends that can lean on each other and help our fellow cohort members no matter what. Aside from the incredibly talented faculty and staff, the networking opportunities have been invaluable. I know the connections that I’m making with this cohort will last and benefit my career well into the future. The curriculum has been curated to be relevant and useful for today’s business environment. The academic experience has been challenging and is one of the myriad reasons why I would recommend this program to anyone considering an MBA.
Ellie Shollenberger
The UT Dallas Product Lifecycle & Supply Chain Management is a unique and one of a kind Executive MBA program; no other school offers this concentration. Unlike the traditional EMBA with a finance focus, this program taught me the importance of making the best business decision beyond the numbers. The knowledge and experience I gained in the program has given me more opportunities to be involved with important projects and to manage corporate programs in the company; and I am enjoying this challenge. Most importantly, I learned a lot from my highly experienced classmates with different backgrounds, and the friendships we built during our international study trip is a lifetime gift and priceless!
Holly Martin, GLEMBA ’19
Customer Experience Manager, J.B. Hunt
Because of this program, I was able to present within my organization to five different groups, which led to a promotion, an invitation to assist with three special projects as a new manager, and an appointment as a co-chair to lead professional development for an internal employee resource group.
Michelle Miller, EMBA 2015
Research Operations Manager, CBRE
The executive coaching experience was very helpful in guiding my understanding of my strengths and weaknesses and helping me build a plan to leverage them or overcome them, respectively. My executive coach and I continued to work together after the structured part of the program was over as my coach’s expertise in career transitions was very helpful as I evaluated, negotiated, and executed my next career move.
Executive Education Alumni Spotlights
Read the success stories from JSOM alumni who earned their degrees from the Jindal School of Management. These alumni are current professionals who share their insights about their experience and life after graduating from UT Dallas.
Sarah Hagan, EMBA’11
CFO, Omnitracs
Hagan, a Dallas resident, joined Omnitracs, LLC, in April 2016, after a successful 11 years at Sabre Corp., where she held senior leadership positions in accounting and finance.
Darla Chapman Ripley, EMBA’97
Associate, Dave Perry-Miller & Associates Real Estate
Darla Ripley places a lot of importance on maintaining all networks, regardless of industry or location.
Will McIntosh, EMBA’06
Senior Manager, Advisory Services, Ernst & Young LLP
McIntosh, a senior manager in Advisory Services at Ernst and Young’s Dallas office, measures his success by the quality relationships he has developed with clients and coworkers throughout his 15 years in the management consulting and financial services industries. He assists leading banks and lenders in solving various management problems and improving their operations in order to better serve customers and meet the demands of other key stakeholders.
Sid Keswani, MBA’09
President, Pandora Americas
As president of the Americas region, Sid Keswani is responsible for PANDORA’s markets in North America, the Caribbean and Latin America.
Charles Gillis, MBA’04
Executive Director, Munsch Hardt Kopf & Harr, PC
Technology and an evolving mindset about work-life balance is completely changing the legal services profession.
Joseph James, MBA’10
Enterpreneur
James, who completed his Executive MBA degree in 2010, manages two startup businesses. At 2020 Commercial, he provides commercial real estate sales, leasing and development services. At Mango Farms Digital Marketing, he and his staff provide web and mobile application development and manage digital marketing for clients.
Executive Education Articles
Discover how Executive Education faculty are researching, publishing, speaking and engaging in the business community. The authors of these articles also include accounting students, staff and friends.
How to Write an Admissions Essay for an Executive MBA Program
The power of your personal story
Each individual has a story to tell, yet when it comes to the admissions essay, many essays fall short because the applicant fails to effectively convey their story. The beginning of the essay should capture the reader’s attention.
Difference Between EMBA and PMBA
What is the difference between EMBA and PMBA?
UT Dallas offers five paths to earning an MBA. Each MBA requires 53 credit hours to complete and all are accredited by AACSB – the gold standard for business schools. Tuition, curriculum and admissions are different, however, for each of these MBA options.
The Importance of a Relevant Curriculum
Curriculum is key for students
Creating and maintaining a relevant curriculum is key for students to achieve the maximum return on investment (ROI) in an executive MBA program. Emerging technologies are becoming an integral part of our business environment..
What Makes a Good EMBA Candidate?
An Excellent Career Investment
When I am asked what makes a good executive MBA candidate, several thoughts come to mind. I’m looking for mature working professionals that are ready to invest in accelerating their career.