Nov. 26, 2018

Dipali Patel Britton, Business Development Manager, Upward Star Center

When will you graduate from the Professional MBA program?
August 2020

Why did you choose to attend the Moore School Professional MBA program?
I researched and compared rankings of many business schools, and the Darla Moore School of Business is ranked top on admission standards, program concentrations, faculty and in other areas. I wanted to attend a highly valued program that allowed me to have access to a wealth of data and opportunities, and this program exceeded all of my standards.

What did you anticipate going into the program?
I anticipated a graduate business education that would provide me the skills and framework to be able to quickly and accurately analyze large amounts of information and to develop smart solutions to business problems. After just five weeks of my MBA program, I was applying what I was learning in meetings and projects at work. This was very empowering and encouraging.

Who at the Moore School most impacted you and how?
Overall, the entire program staff has been encouraging, supportive and positive. My undergrad was 12 years ago, so I was very nervous to go back to school. Although it is extremely challenging balancing grad school and a full-time job, I am thankful for the genuine support along the way.

What do you enjoy most about your program?
The variety of courses that I’m taking is exposing me to multiple aspects of business. This makes me confident in many different areas of our business at the Upward Star Center.

What is the most valuable thing you've learned through your program?
The most valuable things I’ve learned in my first semester of the MBA program are from my organizational behavior class. Understanding theories behind motivation, employee satisfaction, negotiation and group-based problem-solving are applications I’m able to put to practice right away as one of the leaders in our organization.

What are your career goals?
I like to say I’ve never had a job. I’ve owned multiple Subway franchises, published a children’s book, started a business from the ground up, worked for a D1 school as the head spirit coordinator and traveled the country to judge for varsity cheer competitions. They’ve all been passions of mine. I’m looking forward to using my MBA skills within an organization whose purpose I’m passionate about and influencing many in an effective leadership role.