Q&A with Amanda Turpen, TMMBA Student
Amanda Turpen, Recruiter at Amazon, shares her experience in the Technology Management MBA program.
Why did you choose the Technology Management MBA program at the Foster School?
After exploring local MBA programs I decided to apply to and join the Technology Management MBA program because of the 18-month timeline and the focus on technology and entrepreneurship. I wanted a program that was short and would still allow me to keep my full-time job. The TMMBA program provides services that make going to school while working manageable. This includes the established curriculum, meals and books provided, and the timing of classes. I also picked the TMMBA program because I’m interested in continuing to grow in a technology company, Amazon for now, and wanted my studies to be as applicable to the environment I work in as possible.
How has your study group affected your experience in the TMMBA program?
My study groups have made the TMMBA program much more rewarding and educational than I anticipated. Working on group projects has opened my eyes to how my teammates think and approach problems in ways different from my own. I was also able to lean on my study group when life outside of school got exceptionally busy. This support system was critical in making sure I didn’t fall behind. We all support each other and understand that life happens.
Is there a particular faculty member who stands out in your mind as being really exceptional?
Ben Hallen was a great professor for our Entrepreneurship class. With experience starting his own company, Ben was able to provide a lot of first-hand knowledge of lessons learned. He brought some fantastic guest speakers into class that had great insights into the Seattle start-up ecosystem. The main project, to create a business, was a challenging project but gave me a taste of what starting a company entails and the work it takes to be successful.
What class has been the most useful or interesting to you so far?
The Competitive Strategy class with David Tan was a challenging class that forced me to think of strategy in a different way. It has been a class that I have used in every other group project to ensure the ideas that were created were strategic and more likely to succeed.
Is there anything else you want to tell prospective students about this program?
I was a little nervous to join the TMMBA program without a technical background. After joining I realized that I was not alone and my classmates have a range of backgrounds and current positions. The variety of experiences in the class adds to rich conversations and debates that have enhanced the material we’re being taught.
