
For Patrick Surrett, embarking on an MBA journey was not solely about augmenting his qualifications—it represented a commitment to lifelong education, personal development, and the discovery of a supportive community. His pathway to the University of Illinois Gies College of Business iMBA deviated from the conventional route. Initially registered in an alternative online MBA program, Patrick encountered the Gies iMBA through MOOCs on Coursera and took the initiative to transition, identifying a program that resonated more closely with his career goals and learning style. Today, he stands as more than just a student; he serves as an iMBA ambassador, an engaged member of the Gies community, and a fervent supporter of the program.
Exploration of MOOCs and Discovering the Right Option
A seasoned expert based in Washington, D.C., Patrick has devoted over 15 years to consulting. Balancing his full-time role with his studies proved to be more demanding than he initially anticipated. Nevertheless, with a disciplined schedule and the thoughtfully crafted flexibility of the iMBA program, his experiences in the second semester and beyond have been considerably more manageable.
The decision to pursue an MBA coincided with his 48th birthday, prompting a realization that ongoing learning was a fundamental principle he wished to uphold. After applying to five MBA programs (none of which were Gies iMBA) and receiving offers from all, he opted for a nine-month, online program. In preparation, he engaged in MOOCs covering Accounting and Statistics through the University of Illinois on Coursera, during which time he learned about the iMBA.
As he conducted further research, watching YouTube content and participating in webinars, it became clear to him that Gies offered significantly more than the program he had initially selected. The two-year format of the iMBA, its extensive curriculum, and the capacity to transfer MOOC elements convinced him to change his course of action. With only a few weeks remaining before commencing his first program, he rescinded his acceptance and enrolled at Gies in August 2024.
An Interactive and Connected Journey
One of Patrick’s primary worries regarding an online program was the level of engagement. His online undergraduate experience at Western Governors University, while beneficial, lacked the robust interaction he sought. The iMBA, however, quickly demonstrated a distinct approach.
During the Fall of 2024, Patrick attended iConverge, where he met fellow students and even the Dean of Gies. He was impressed by the program’s dedication to participation, diversity, and innovation. “The Dean is one of the most inventive and motivated people I’ve ever encountered,” he shares. “You can genuinely sense her commitment to the students and the future of this program.”
Now immersed in the program, Patrick remarked on how swiftly he felt connected to something greater than a mere online degree program. Each class integrates a collaborative aspect through weekly live discussions, breakout groups, and group assignments. Even the professors—many of whom he had previously met in MOOCs—are committed to facilitating a smooth transition from self-directed learning to organized coursework.
“The program is definitely ‘online by design,’ and they truly adhere to that philosophy,” Patrick states. “They’ve accomplished a remarkable feat in creating an interactive, community-oriented experience.”
The program’s flexibility has also proven to be a significant benefit. With live sessions scheduled at various times to cater to different time zones, students can select lectures that align with their availability or choose to watch recordings asynchronously. Additionally, abundant office hours are available, with professors and Course Assistants (CAs) offering numerous sessions each week.
Implementing New Skills Right Away
Patrick’s position as a program manager for federal government initiatives has already seen positive impacts from his coursework. Leadership and strategic management courses have transformed his methods of team engagement, client relationships, and planning. His cost accounting class has equipped him with the technical vocabulary necessary for more effective discussions about financial issues at work, while business writing courses have enhanced his communication abilities.
“The skills I’m acquiring are not merely theoretical—they can be applied immediately,” he clarifies. “I’ve been in the business realm for some time, but this program challenges me to be more precise and strategic in my writing and decision-making.”
Becoming an Advocate and Cultivating Lasting Connections
Beyond academics, Patrick has discovered a genuine sense of belonging. He currently serves on two committees and acts as an ambassador for the Gies iMBA, aiding prospective students in navigating the enrollment process. By engaging in LinkedIn inquiries, webinars, and office hours, he shares his experiences, aspiring to motivate others as he was motivated.
“I’ve completely embraced this—I’ve ‘drank the Kool-Aid,’” he quips. “But it’s because I sincerely believe in this program and the opportunities it presents.”
Through meetups, collaborative projects, and networking gatherings, Patrick has established friendships with colleagues from around the globe. Whether it’s informal happy hours in the D.C.-Baltimore vicinity or watch parties for football games, the connections fostered by Gies extend far beyond the virtual classroom.
“I’m surrounded by 400-500 of my closest companions,” he remarks regarding the Gies community. “The global networking prospects are extraordinary.”
Looking Forward: Immersions and Capstone Projects
In March, Patrick is set to engage in an immersion opportunity in Miami, collaborating with a company to address a real-world business challenge. This experience, along with the program’s capstone courses, will further polish his skills and broaden his professional network. With a total of three capstones—two specialty and one program-wide—he anticipates facing new challenges and continuing to thrive.
An Endeavor Worth Pursuing
Patrick’s narrative exemplifies the importance of discovering the right educational alignment. “I wake up with anticipation every day,” he expresses. “Even discussing this program rekindles my enthusiasm for learning.”
Through the Gies iMBA, he has uncovered a program that not only ensures academic excellence but also cultivates a robust, engaged community. From advancing his career and expanding networking avenues to forming friendships, the choice to switch to Gies has been nothing short of transformative.
The post From MOOCs to Mastery: How Patrick Surrett Found his Perfect Fit in the Gies iMBA appeared first on Coursera Blog.