Another Reason to LOVE Queen's

Like many of the other students in the Ottawa Class of 2011, I investigated a significant number of programs, attended seminars, and interviewed alumni before finally selecting the Queen's Executive MBA.  I knew that I was getting a solid program.  I knew that it was going to be hard work.  I knew that I would be surrounded by a diverse set of students that would only add to the richness of the program.  I knew that the faculty was phenomenal.  I knew that I was going to be exposed to a variety of experiences that other programs only dream about providing to their students.

What I did not know was how flexible Queen's is.  Sure, the marketing materials imply that there is flexibility, but you don't really know what it means until you are faced with needing some.

Today, I contacted a friend to let her know about my new employment status.  She came back and asked if I was staying in Ottawa or returning to Toronto.  If I am returning to the "centre of the universe", she has an opening at her company that is in line with my abilities and experience and she'd put in a good word with the hiring manager.  That was unexpected.  I hadn't thought about moving back.  It's only been 13 days and I have only applied for one job so far.  My husband and I have decided that I need to consider all options, so I am going to include Toronto in my job search, and if the right opportunity comes along...

What does that have to do with Queen's?  Well, I am only 50% through the program.  (Technically, I think we've done more than 50% of the coursework, but there is still 50% of the time left.)  If I end up in Toronto, what does that mean for school here?  Well, I have options.  I can stay here (which means commute to Ottawa on class weekends) or I can transfer to the National program.  Or I can do a blend where I stay in the Ottawa program and mostly come here, but drop in on some of the National program video conferences.  I had heard of people transferring between the programs, but never considered it for me.  Now I know the gut-wrenching decision-making that goes on and I feel incredibly supported by the director of my program and the Queen's administration.

I have told my team that should it come to be that I move 400-500 kilometres away, I will keep the team intact and commute to town on class weekends.

Does anyone have a spare bedroom I can use every other weekend?  Just askin'!