Chloe Macrae
Program / Grad Year: Laurier MBA with Co-op 2010
Previous Education: Honors Bachelor of Science (Biochemistry), Queen’s University, Master of Science (Medical Biophysics), University of Toronto
Employment prior to the Laurier MBA: Research Associate, Ontario Cancer Institute, Princess Margaret Hospital
Co-op Work Term Employers: Pepsi Beverages Company, AIR MILES Reward Program
Current Employment: Policy Analyst, Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, Health System Information Management & Investment Division
“I’m a firm believer in remaining open to possibilities in life. The comprehensive Laurier MBA program is a great way to get involved in new areas that interest you, inspire you, and challenge you. Many students, myself included, are completely surprised by their interest and ability in a new area that they never considered before (or by their lack of interest in an ability they didn’t know they even had!). The Laurier MBA pushes you to stretch the boundaries of your comfort zone, and tests the extent of your capabilities. Through this, students are able to unearth new and exciting opportunities!”
Why did you choose Laurier for your MBA degree?
I was initially attracted to the Laurier MBA because of the very strong Co-op option. I had graduate-level training in health research, and I was looking to broaden my scope beyond the basic sciences, although I had no idea where my career path would lead. The Co-op degree was the perfect opportunity to explore different career options. Laurier offers a huge variety of Co-op positions in different industries and focus areas including finance, marketing, accounting, operations, and strategy. When I came into the program, I was very open minded and applied to all different types of jobs that interested me. I ended up working in corporate strategy and competitive intelligence with the AIR MILES Reward Program, before moving on to a Sales and Marketing role with the Pepsi Beverages Company. Each of these positions provided me with a completely unique experience. The Laurier MBA Co-op program is a great way to try new things, expand your horizons, and build up a diverse portfolio of skills that will make you extremely attractive to potential employers. Similarly, it is also a terrific venue to make contacts and network in different industries.
How did the Laurier MBA help your career?
The Laurier MBA has helped advance my career by providing a comprehensive, well-rounded degree that has greatly expanded my knowledge and skills. The integrated format has taught me how to view business problems holistically, while the case method has taught me how to approach complex problems in a structured manner. The intensive nature of the program was also instrumental in helping me to master the art of time management and work prioritization, which I am sure will also be very valuable in my future career.
What opportunities has your MBA degree provided?
The Laurier MBA incorporates several different value-added degree components that can serve as an additional outlet to gain practical, hands-on experience. During the course of the program, as I learned more about the type of work I wanted to do, I decided I wanted to stay in the healthcare sector. So, I used the Not-For-Profit Practicum and Applied Business Research Project as an opportunity to explore the health policy field. I volunteered with the Ontario Public Health Association, and completed a strategic consulting project with the Victorian Order of Nurses. These experiences both strengthened and focused my resume, so that I was able to get a full-time job in policy development with the Ontario Public Service. The Laurier MBA allows students to tailor their degree to their needs. There is no shortage of opportunities to get involved and gain excellent experience that will help you land your dream job.
What did you like most about your Laurier experience?
The best thing about the Laurier program is the people – the students, the faculty, and the administration. The Laurier MBA offers a great learning environment. The classes are small, the students are friendly, and the program is very close-knit. At Laurier, it is less about competition and more about teamwork. The program has some truly amazing professors, and students are always able to seek out extra help or individual attention. The entire administration is supportive and committed to helping students succeed. This truly unique student experience is what makes the Laurier MBA program standout from the others.
What’s next?
Thanks to my Laurier MBA, I am exactly where I want to be. My role in policy development at the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care allows me to make an impact and help improve the provincial healthcare system for the benefit of all Ontario citizens. I am looking forward to building a rewarding career in the public service.