Can you talk a little bit about yourself and your background?

A Senior Information Technology (IT) Manager with over 28 years of experience working for a Chemical company in Toronto, Canada. I migrated to Canada in 1996 from Sri Lanka under the skilled worker category and lived here ever since. I had a basic education and could not complete my higher education due to the civil war. I continued my education in IT, management, and leadership in Canada. I am a strong believer in coaching and mentoring the younger generation and also helping seniors and people in need around the world.  

What prompted you to pursue an online program with Aston University? Specifically, why was online appealing to you?

I always wanted to do my MBA, but work and personal life commitments took over, and I could not dedicate the time. I applied for many universities worldwide, but none was willing to accept me since I did not have a Bachelor’s degree. I wrote to Aston with a detailed work experience portfolio and requested them to accept me. Aston honored my request and valued my vast experience and my professional certifications, such as PMI (Project Management Institute), Harvard University, and from all the IT professional certifications I have attained.   

Since I am a full-time worker, the Online program was the only suitable option for me. 

What has the experience been like? Was it what you thought it would be like, and has it met your expectations?

The experience with Aston and the MBA program is great, and I am in my sixth module. The program is well structured; the professors are knowledgeable in their domain and super friendly; the administration and student cohort are brilliant.

I was skeptical initially, and the expectations were low; however, I was proven wrong that and online MBA is possible with the right institution like Aston and if you are willing to dedicate your time and effort to succeed.

If you were giving someone who was considering an online course advice, what would it be?

I would say go for it! However, remember you have to choose a university like Aston who will hold your hand and guide you to the water, but you have to drink! - Meaning that you have to dedicate time and discipline yourself to stay on top of the course to succeed.

Would you recommend the Aston program, and if so, what aspects of the course do you find appealing?

I would recommend Aston in a heartbeat! since I like every aspect of the course, the course structure, professors, cohort, practical aspect of the teachings that can be applied to our professional lives, and the overall administration and management of Aston.

Is there anything you’d like to add or anything you’d like to talk about that we did not touch on?

I will always be grateful to Aston for allowing me to fulfill my dream to attain an MBA, as this was just a dream for me for many years, but now it is reality. I want to thank Aston University for accepting me into the program, and I am confident I will finish strong.