28 insights for success,
from our MBA graduates
2024 marks the 50-year anniversary of UQ’s prestigious Master of Business Administration (MBA) program.
In recognition of this milestone, we asked our community of MBA students and alumni to share the business or career advice that had most influenced their success in 30 words or less.
While many of their insights reflect the values of the MBA, the themes they represent are relevant to anyone who wants to pursue a successful, rewarding career.
We’ve collated some of the most powerful insights based on these themes to help motivate and inspire the next generation of future leaders.
Professionalism and success at work
Most people who enrol in an MBA are looking for more out of their career, whether that’s a job or industry change, wanting to move up the corporate ladder or to start their own business. Whether you’re a business owner, freelancer or employee, these insights are relevant to everyone who wants to thrive in the workplace.
- “Quality, reliability and productivity build trust between businesses, their customers, the community they serve and the environment they belong to.”
Labanya Mukherjee, alum
- “Always be early, do more than your share and treat everyone the same regardless of position.”
Tim Pugh, alum
- “There’s always a different perspective. Seek it, and you’ll uncover opportunities in every situation and decision.”
Brett Kavanagh, alum
- “Don’t think in career ladders and discipline pathways. Think of it as a jungle gym instead!"
Max Haddad, alum
- “Own your pathway, deliver well and be proud.”
Brene Currie, alum
Community and network
One of the benefits of studying an MBA at UQ is the lifelong friendships and rich professional relationships students build with peers from diverse industries. Our alumni believe having a strong support network who can challenge your way of thinking and provide new perspectives remains valuable beyond the classroom.
- "Find people who share your values but not your perspectives.”
Chris Hurn, alum
“Build strong relationships and always keep learning. It's true your network and knowledge are your greatest assets."
Sophia Arkinstall, alum
Authenticity and integrity
The importance of authenticity and integrity are taught by our teaching academics, so it’s not surprising our students and alumni recognise this too.
- “Practice what you preach. Actions should match the words spoken as integrity is everything.”
Rubik Ghosh, alum
- "Authenticity is your most precious commodity as a leader. It requires vulnerability, transparency and integrity.”
David Hails, student
- “Be authentic in everything you do and show genuine care for your people.”
Will Hetherington, alum
“Build genuine relationships and prioritise integrity. It opens doors and sustains success in the long term.”
Matthew Jones, alum
The pursuit of success and personal fulfilment
What does success look like to you? Our alumni highlight the importance of agility, risk tolerance, finding your sense of purpose and personal fulfilment.
- “If you want to achieve better than average, you need to take more risk than the average person is willing to.”
Mark Trayner, alum
- "What made you successful today is unlikely to be enough to make you successful tomorrow.”
Jason Titman, alum
- “Knowing and living your personal purpose is the truest path to fulfillment.”
Robyn Hayes, alum
- "Focus on creating value, not just profit. Success follows those who solve real problems.”
Amin Kashanchi, alum
“You're only limited by your imagination, curiosity and commitment.”
Samantha Rush, alum
Grit when the going gets tough
The path to success is rarely smooth. Our alumni understand the value of adaptability and resilience and provide motivation for anyone who needs to navigate the bumps in the road and get back on their feet after a fall.
- “When challenges arise, rise higher. Embrace the journey to wherever you want to be with unwavering confidence.”
Jessie Sadler, alum
- “Overnight success occurs from always getting back up after failure.”
James Reynolds, alum
- “Living in diverse environments teaches you the skill of adapting, which prepares you to face any challenge or opportunity.”
Daniel Serkovic, alum
- “You don't play rugby and expect not to get tackled. Business is the same. The aim of the game is to move the ball closer to the try line.”
Alec Berry, student
“Embrace change and pursue with grit!”
Jan Bodnaruk, alum
Growth
Stepping outside your comfort zone is daunting. But our MBA students and alumni have learned the power of pushing themselves to take deliberate, strategic risks to gain personal and professional growth.
- “Everyone feels like an imposter at the start.”
Rowan Hall, alum
- “Growth happens when you embrace challenges, take risks and keep learning.”
George Chengadakary, student
- “You’ll only grow if you’re challenged. If it’s easy, leave.”
Ellen Manning, student
“You’ll experience the most growth and personal revelation when things feel slightly scary, yet exciting. Take the step… if you don’t, how will you know.”
Stephanie Rice OAM, student
Lifelong learning
Our community knows that in an ever-changing business landscape, it pays to remain agile and pursue lifelong learning opportunities, formal and informal. Staying curious throughout your career will keep you engaged and motivated to continue evolving professionally.
- “Stay curious, embrace change and never stop learning.”
Jessica Barjaktarovic, alum
- “Nobody can take away the knowledge and experience you gained. Never stop learning.”
Lesley Leung, student
- “Great learnings come from taking chances, making mistakes, always looking to be uncomfortable and from the insights of others.”
Andrew Kingston, student
Which insight do you resonate with or find most inspiring?
