Dallas Executive Says Master's Degree Helps With Life Changes
Dexter Coleman is an executive transitioning coach and consultant for Vision Life Now Consulting, LLC. Coleman earned a master's in business administration and a master's in human resources management from the University of Phoenix.
Why did you pursue a master's degree?
"I already had extensive experience in management, human resources and leadership, and I wanted to ensure that I could be competitive and excel in the corporate and entrepreneur arenas. I completed a master's of management human resources management and M.B.A. degrees for the knowledge, expertise and leverage in the industry. I saw the market was changing, and as a human resources leader, consultant and entrepreneur, the degrees gave me the added value for executive leadership and strengthen my business acumen."
What would you tell someone who is considering returning to school to earn a master's degree?
"Write down the vision for their personal, career and family goals, and consider programs that will give them the leverage to achieve their overall endeavors. Research the schools, cost, scholarship opportunities and internal career services programs to identify the best fit. Serious candidates should consider investing in a career or success coach, and joining diversity and career-related professional groups."
What was the biggest challenge you faced when pursuing your master's degree?
"Discovering the pursuit of education, work, family and personal life balance was the biggest challenge. During a portion of graduate school, I worked approximately 55 – 60 hours weekly, which included many weekends. I had to be very intentional about scheduling my study time to ensure my family and personal time was an option. I was able to become a master of time management."
What was the biggest reward for earning the master's degree?
"It reminded me to be a lifetime learner, and the knowledge and wisdom is invaluable beyond the workplace. The biggest reward [was that] I position[ed] myself to pursue and achieve the things I desired that are aligned with my purpose. I was also able to meet and engage with like-minded professionals, which strengthen my diverse network. I also continued a legacy of pursuing excellence through education, started by my parents and now continued with my children."
Robin D. Everson is a native Chicagoan who resides in Dallas, Texas. Her appreciation for art, food, wine, people and places has helped her become a well-respected journalist. A life-long lover of education, Robin seeks to learn and enlighten others about culture. You can find her work at Examiner.com
