5 Minutes With MBA Graduate Kent Donaldson

MBA Graduate Kent Donaldson shared with us a little about his AIB experience, what drove him to complete an MBA and the outcomes he achieved from his studies.

What drew you to studying an MBA?

I’m in a very technical business – I’m an Aviation and Infrastructure Consultant, advising businesses on how new technology can improve aviation – but I wanted to gain some background knowledge in management to complement my current skills and abilities. The other advantage of completing an MBA was work-related – I was looking to do some work in the Middle East, and in many countries you must hold a post-graduate level qualification in order to meet visa requirements.

Why did you choose to study with AIB?

I was looking for a flexible, affordable and globally recognised programme. The 12 month MBA allowed me to plan ahead, and juggle work and study, to continue my travel commitments and still be able to attend weekend workshops and achieve my qualification.

I liked the practicality of AIB, also. I was able to take a theory and apply it to my area of work and get a practical return on investment in a very short space of time.

Did you feel supported whilst studying with AIB?

Definitely. The facilitators at AIB were wonderful – they were very happy to talk to you out of class, and the administration was also excellent – I could always get feedback if I wanted it. There was also a big advantage in going to weekend classes. The interaction level was great, and it gave me the opportunity to bounce ideas off my fellow students.

What was the best part of your MBA experience?

Being able to relate my passions with each subject – my research project went into applications of carbon fibre into areas such as health management and hospitals. For example, carbon fibre can be pushed around at twice the strength and half the weight of heavy steel beds. I’ve looked at a lot of the entrepreneurial ways of adapting that through my academic studies, which has been a great experience.

This article has been constructed by Simone Ball from an AIB video interview. The very best has been done to accurately reflect the thoughts and opinions of the participant.