Shakira Jackson is expected to earn her MBA in strategic leadership from Lerner in 2025. Shakira shared why she chose Lerner to pursue her graduate studies, and what she has gained from her experiences.
Lerner: Why did you go back to pursue your graduate degree? Why did you choose the Lerner College for your studies?
Jackson: I am pursuing a graduate degree to change my career path. I currently work in the reinsurance industry, but I am interested in transitioning into the compliance industry. I chose the Lerner College because the curriculum offers a comprehensive blend of theory and practical experience, which will equip me with the skills necessary to transition into the compliance field. Additionally, the College’s connections to industry professionals and its focus on real-world applications make it an ideal place for me to build a strong foundation for my new career path.
Lerner: What did you learn through this opportunity that you wouldn’t have learned anywhere else?
Jackson: Through this experience, I have been able to collaborate with peers from diverse backgrounds, which has broadened my perspective and helped me develop a more holistic view of the challenges and solutions in any field.
Lerner: Please share an example of a course or concept that you were able to apply directly to your life and/or career.
Jackson: In the course BUEC 601 – Building Emotional Intelligence and Critical Thinking, we learned about confirmation bias. This bias occurs when an individual seeks and finds evidence that confirms their beliefs while ignoring evidence that contradicts them. We also learned that in order to mitigate this bias, we must develop safeguards. In my current position, I prepare billing presentations for asbestos and pollution claims. Despite each claim having its own set of individual facts, I would sometimes compare previous billing presentations to support my viewpoint when putting together a new billing package. Through this course, I learned to implement a safeguard by evaluating each claim independently, even when the facts were similar to another claim.
Lerner: Describe an important connection you have made through your graduate program (personal, professional, peers, mentors, professors, etc.)
Jackson: I have had the pleasure of meeting with Sarah Baker Andrus, assistant director of the Lerner Career Services Center, on multiple occasions. She has provided me with valuable information throughout my job search journey, including advice on refining my resume, interview preparation tips, and insights into industry trends. Her guidance has been instrumental in helping me navigate the complexities of the job search process.
Lerner: If you were to describe your classmates in one word, what would that be and why?
Jackson: Because I am an online student, I have not met any of my classmates in-person. However, based on interactions through Yellowdig, a social learning platform that helps students and instructors create and engage in online discussions, I would describe my classmates as engaged. Through our discussions on Yellowdig, it’s clear that they are eager to share their insights and perspectives, contributing to a collaborative and supportive learning environment. Despite not meeting in person, the online interactions have fostered a sense of community and mutual respect.
Lerner: How do you balance your career with your studies?
Jackson: My current position is very demanding. In order to balance my career with my studies, I prioritize time management and set clear goals for both work and academic responsibilities. I also make use of flexible study hours and take advantage of weekends to stay ahead in my coursework, ensuring that I can meet deadlines without compromising my job performance. I also make sure to make time to relax and recharge, recognizing that maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential for staying focused, productive, and managing stress effectively.
Lerner: Fill in this sentence: “My graduate program helped me become…”
Jackson: More organized, strategic and confident in my ability to tackle complex problems. It also enhanced my critical thinking and communication skills, allowing me to approach challenges with a more analytical mindset and effectively collaborate with others in both academic and professional settings.
Lerner: What was the most impactful hands-on project or case competition that you were able to participate in?
Jackson: In my BUAD 670 Managing, People Teams and Organizations course, I did an analysis on the movie “On the Basis of Sex,” a biographical drama that chronicles the early career of Ruth Bader Ginsburg. As someone who is a law school graduate, I was particularly excited about this project, because it provided an opportunity to critically analyze how Ginsburg’s strategic thinking, perseverance, and approach to teamwork contributed to her success in challenging gender discrimination in the legal system. The project not only deepened my understanding of her impact but also reinforced the importance of leadership and resilience in driving social change. It also allowed me to apply legal concepts and critical thinking to a real-world case, bridging my past education with my current studies.
Lerner: What are your plans or next steps for the future?
Jackson: My next steps are to network and build stronger connections within my desired field, while also seeking out opportunities for further professional development. I plan to leverage the skills and knowledge I’ve gained during my graduate studies to pursue roles that align with my long-term career goals.