Kathryn Leslie ('20)

For as long as I can remember, completing my MBA has been one of my personal goals. I have always recognized the value of a formal education in business and as I approached the end of my undergrad degree at Queen’s, I was looking for ways to jumpstart this. I knew I had so much to learn (and, still do!), and was very fortunate to have found the GDB. The GDB allowed me to pursue graduate studies in business from one of the best business schools in the country, gain valuable industry knowledge and learn through real-world scenarios, all while completing MBA-level credits to be used towards my future Smith MBA. From the moment I started the application process, I felt incredible support from the Smith family — faculty, program managers, professors, alumni, etc. I knew this program was for me and I am proud to be a Smith alumna today.

The GDB is an intensive program. Students are challenged, pushed, supported, tested and encouraged to work hard in order to grow as individuals and professionals. This program instilled the work ethic, resilience and flexibility I have at work today, and taught me how to work efficiently and effectively, especially in a remote environment. The GDB is a busy program with consistently competing priorities, which taught me how to achieve balance to perform well and be successful both professionally and personally. As I begin my career in tech, this skillset is something that I’ve really come to value. The tech world is constantly changing and the GDB prepared me to be able to adapt and find balance in this ever-changing industry.

The best advice I could give to prospective students considering the GDB is to be authentic, stay true to yourself, and work hard. Some people go into the GDB program not knowing exactly what their future will entail, and that is completely okay. Smith is home to supportive and devoted staff and alumni, and I believe anyone is capable of realizing their full potential when authenticity and hard work are shown.

• Undergraduate institution: Queen’s University
• Undergraduate Field of Study: BScH Life Sciences
• Current Position: Head of Corporate Operations at Nook Technologies Inc