Tag: Network

Unlocking the Power of Community: The Texas McCombs Executive MBA Experience

Pursuing an MBA is more than just gaining a degree; it’s about the relationships you build, the experiences you share, and the community you become a part of. At Texas McCombs, our Executive MBA program offers not only top-tier education but also a supportive and collaborative culture. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or an up-and-coming leader, you’ll find yourself surrounded by individuals who are not only eager to share their knowledge but also genuinely invested in your success. Here, competition takes a back seat to cooperation as students come together to tackle real-world challenges and opportunities.

Collaborative Culture 

One of the defining characteristics of our Executive MBA program is its collaborative nature, unlike traditional MBA programs that may foster competition. Our students come from diverse professional backgrounds and industries, and they bring with them a wealth of knowledge and experience. Instead of competing against one another, our students work together, leveraging each other’s strengths to achieve mutual success. Whether it’s tackling group projects, participating in case studies, or engaging in classroom discussions, our students thrive in an environment where collaboration is not only encouraged but celebrated.

Emi FitzGerald headshotEmiko FitzGerald, Executive MBA Class of 2023, made strong connections while at McCombs. Recognized as one of Poets & Quants’ Best & Brightest in 2023, Emi actively contributed to the graduate community as the Communications Chair for Graduate Women in Business, while also serving on the McCombs Ambassador Committee. Additionally, she excelled as a McCombs+ Leadership Fellow and engaged in a high-impact Go-To-Market Consulting Project with Stripe. Emi’s dedication extended beyond campus as she served as a mentor in the Global Sports Mentoring Program.

One of the main reasons I chose the McCombs Executive MBA program was for the diverse cohort in geography, backgrounds and networking. It is as advertised and my professional network is exponentially stronger because of it. In the Executive MBA program, students come from different backgrounds and different strengths.Those stronger in finance helped those who didn’t have as much experience in finance classes (like me). But when it came time for marketing classes, I could tap into my strengths and experiences to help students with less familiarity in the subject. Everyone helped each other become stronger in the subject matter rather than compete.” 

Supportive Environment

Another key aspect of the Texas McCombs Executive MBA experience is the unwavering support provided by our faculty, staff, and fellow students. From day one, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a community of individuals who are invested in your success. Whether it’s offering mentorship, providing resources, or simply lending an empathetic ear, our community is here to support you every step of the way. No matter the challenges you may face, you can count on your Texas McCombs family to have your back.

Emi and her Executive MBA classmates for the Executive MBA Women’s Empowerment Summit.

Emi (center) and her classmates and co-organizers of the first Women’s Empowerment Summit for Executive MBA.

A group of women in my cohort wanted to do more for our Graduate Women in Business chapter and celebration of International Women’s Day. The program staff worked alongside us to create a GWiB Women’s Empowerment Summit by helping us secure rooms, drum up publicity, bring speakers to campus and partner with other McCombs departments. They recognized the important role of women in business and were creative in their resources and time to support us. It was a defining moment for me in my McCombs journey!

Lifelong Friendships

Perhaps one of the most rewarding aspects of the Executive MBA journey is the lifelong friendships you’ll forge along the way. As you navigate through the program together, sharing triumphs and overcoming obstacles, you’ll develop bonds that extend far beyond the classroom. These connections aren’t just limited to your time in the program; they continue to grow and flourish long after graduation. Whether you’re celebrating career milestones, seeking advice, or simply catching up over coffee, your Texas McCombs classmates will always be there, ready to support and uplift you.

In the year since graduation, I’ve kept up with a number of colleagues through family meet ups, rounds of golf, discussions about new business ideas and phone calls. One colleague was recently promoted and building out his marketing department, so another marketing-focused classmate and I have been a sounding board for him. We are cheering each other on from various corners of society.

Emi and some of her classmates

Emi and some of her classmates from the Executive MBA Class of 2023 and 2024.

An Added Bonus

While pursuing your Executive MBA at Texas McCombs, you’re not just investing in your education and career advancement; you’re also gaining access to a vibrant and supportive community that will enrich your life in countless ways. From collaborative projects to lifelong friendships, the value of our community extends far beyond the confines of the classroom. So if you’re considering taking the next step in your career, why not choose a program that not only offers academic excellence but also fosters a culture of collaboration, support, and lifelong connections? Join us at Texas McCombs, where your success is our top priority, and where the power of community is truly transformative.


Visit Texas McCombs MBA to learn more about our programs and upcoming events or take a peek into student life on Instagram. For any inquiries, don’t hesitate to reach out to the MBA Admissions Team. We look forward to connecting with you on your journey to success.

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5 Reasons to Pursue an Executive MBA at Texas McCombs

You’ve been in the game for a while, building your expertise and making your mark. Now it’s time to make a change. Welcome to the Texas McCombs Executive MBA program, designed for seasoned professionals with robust leadership experience, and a place to enjoy the benefits of an internationally ranked business school without losing any career momentum. Through a blend of dynamic, in-person classroom sessions and experiential learning opportunities, the program equips executives with the knowledge and insights necessary to address complex business challenges confidently. Here, we embrace the Texas motto of friendship, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and placing emphasis on connections and bonds forged within the McCombs community in Texas and around the country. Let’s explore the top 5 reasons why pursuing an Executive MBA at Texas McCombs can be your catalyst for unparalleled career advancement and personal development.

#1. Connect with a Community of High Impact Business Leaders Every Month

At the heart of Texas McCombs lies a culture that thrives on three core principles: curiosity, courage, and community. This program fosters a mindset of perpetual curiosity – a hunger to explore new ideas, industries, and perspectives. With courage as the compass, students are empowered to step beyond their comfort zones, embracing challenges as opportunities for growth. And through our tight-knit community, forged through shared experiences and collaborative learning, connections are cultivated that extend far beyond the classroom.

The McCombs Executive MBA program places more emphasis on leadership and strategy, preparing students for conversations with high-level leaders and board members. We go beyond traditional business education by integrating a dedicated leadership development class into our curriculum starting day one.  This class provides students invaluable time and specialized resources to sharpen their leadership abilities, something that may be difficult for seasoned professionals to incorporate into their busy lives. By prioritizing leadership development and providing a supportive environment for growth, the Executive MBA program ensures students are equipped with both technical and interpersonal business acumen, as well as the management-skills successful executives employ to drive positive change in their organizations and beyond.

#2. Enjoy an Unrivaled Return on Investment (and Interactions – in Austin, New York, Dallas, and DC!)

When considering the return on investment (ROI) of pursuing an Executive MBA, Texas McCombs stands out as an unrivaled choice, offering a unique blend of tangible and intangible returns. Ranked No. 15 among Executive MBA programs (U.S. News and World Report, 2024), Texas McCombs boasts a stellar reputation for delivering exceptional quality education equipping you with the skills and insights needed to thrive at the highest levels of leadership in today’s competitive business landscape.

The return on investment is more than financial achievement. Here, it’s also about forging enduring relationships within a unique cohort, finding support through life’s milestones, and becoming a part of a vibrant community where classmates contribute to each other’s personal and professional growth. The Executive MBA experience is designed to maximize the return on interactions, offering a variety of opportunities to engage with peers and alumni across all Texas McCombs MBA programs through tailored programming. Executive Immersions, available solely in the EMBA program, engage executives with McCombs’ network in key locations such as New York, Dallas, DC and abroad! With a network boasting over 100,000 McCombs alumni worldwide, students gain extensive exposure to various industries, geographics, and backgrounds, enriching their learning experience and networking opportunities.

Through these interactions, students gain a wealth of perspective, experience, and insights that enrich their learning journey and broaden horizons. Whether collaborating on group projects, engaging in discussions, or networking with industry leaders, every interaction becomes an opportunity of growth and discovery. This exposure enriches the learning experience and enhances marketability, positioning students for accelerated growth and success.

#3. Gain Career Momentum and Mobility

For many Executive MBA students, the decision to pursue advanced education stems from a desire to propel their careers forward, to break free from stagnation and pursue new opportunities. We’ve witnessed countless success stories from students who have not only enhanced their current roles but also made significant career transitions, switching functions, industries, or companies.

Take, for example, the Executive MBA Class of 2023, which saw a roughly doubled the number of people in executive roles within three months of graduation. Within the same time, 69% of the class achieved employment change, primarily driven by job level promotion.

These achievements underscore the effectiveness of our general management curriculum, which equips students with the business acumen and strategic mindset necessary to navigate complex challenges and seize emerging opportunities. By fostering a culture of empowerment and instilling a growth mindset, students gain the confidence and skills needed to chart new paths and embrace change mid-career.

#4. Networking, Networking, Networking

Networking is the cornerstone of success in today’s interconnected business landscape, and at Texas McCombs, immersive experiences are critical to fostering meaningful connections. Executive MBA students participate in seven dynamic Executive MBA immersions strategically spread throughout the duration of the program and designed to enhance academic learning and cultivate a strong sense of community in the cohort. From bustling cities like New York and Dallas to international destinations, each immersion blends coursework with real-world experiences, executive speakers, and networking opportunities.

The connections made during the program not only open doors to new career opportunities but also enrich the learning experience by bridging theory with real-world insights. Whether forging partnerships or seeking mentorship, the network built at Texas McCombs extends far beyond graduation, serving as a lifelong resource for growth and support.

#5. Experience a Breadth of Resources at Your Fingertips

Beyond the classroom, Texas McCombs is committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders through a comprehensive range of resources and developmental opportunities. Our two-year curriculum is meticulously crafted not only to impart knowledge but also to cultivate essential leadership skills.

In addition to our embedded leadership course, our program offers a comprehensive suite of resources, including career and specialty coaching (including topics on leadership, communication, emotional intelligence, managing teams, and setting priorities), as well as our prestigious Leadership Fellows program through McCombs+. Texas McCombs+ provides experiential learning and global programs designed to grow influential business leaders through action-based co-curricular and academic initiatives. These offerings, combined with other opportunities like the Capstone project, provide tailored support and personal and professional growth, ensuring every student emerges from the program equipped to lead with impact.

Why Executive MBA?

The Texas McCombs Executive MBA program offers seasoned professionals the opportunity to advance their careers while maintaining their momentum. With a curriculum designed to foster leadership and strategic thinking, coupled with a tight-knit community that embraces the Texas motto of friendship, the program provides a transformative experience that transcends traditional education. From immersive classroom sessions to invaluable experiential learning opportunities, Texas McCombs equips executives with the skills, insights, and connections needed to confidently tackle complex business challenges. With a strong return on investment, a focus on maximizing interactions, and a commitment to fostering career momentum and mobility, the Executive MBA at Texas McCombs opens doors to new possibilities and propels students toward their professional goals. So, is it worth it? Without a doubt. Dare to take that leap, embrace the journey, and unlock the endless possibilities that await.


Visit Texas McCombs MBA to learn more about our programs and upcoming events or take a peek into student life on Instagram. For any inquiries, don’t hesitate to reach out to thMBA Admissions Team. We look forward to connecting with you on your journey to success.

Hook ‘Em!

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