Amy Gorth

Tell us about your journey.  What were you doing prior to pursuing an MBA?  Why did you choose to pursue your MBA, and why at DeGroote?

The year prior to pursuing an MBA, I had recently completed a Bachelor of Science degree at Western and was spending the year teaching English in France. I was not sure what career choice to make; I have always loved science but knew the research route was not for me. I was aspiring to work in a corporate setting in an industry where I could still apply my science background – an MBA degree was the missing puzzle piece to help get me there.

Choosing the Co-op MBA Program at DeGroote was a clear choice; it was the only program I applied to. As a recent graduate with little professional work experience, the co-op opportunities would essential to my career development. Additionally, the positive student experience, as described by friends I had in the program at the time, was a top selling feature. My friends recounted how DeGroote offers a challenging, yet rewarding, program in a supportive and collaborative learning environment. Several years later as an alumnus, I am happy to report that this was indeed my experience.

Tell us a little bit about your experience at DeGroote. What associations or activities were you part of? What did you enjoy at the School?

I really wanted to get involved as much as possible and make the most out of my experience at DeGroote.

In my first term I was successful in securing the role of Vice President of Marketing and Communications on the DeGroote Health Services Management Association. In this position, I helped organize several events each academic term which focused on current healthcare topics, such as Lean Six Sigma, and provided opportunities for students to network with current healthcare professionals.

In my second term, I became a DeGroote Student Ambassador. In this role, I had the chance to engage with prospective students and share my story of why I chose DeGroote and my experience throughout the program.

In my final term, I was selected to be a DeGroote Leader in the DeGroote Leadership Development Program. This was one of my favourite experiences of the program! I enjoyed meeting the new class of students and supporting them through their first semester – it was such a fun and rewarding way to give back to the school and develop my network.

Finally, I was a member of the 2018 DeGroote MBA games team. I travelled with the team to Ottawa to participate as a Case and Athletic competitor. D700 was vital in preparing me for the case competition and even though we did not win, it was a fantastic experience.

How did your experience at DeGroote prepare you for your current career?

My most valuable experiences at DeGroote were the co-op placements. Having three co-op terms meant I had three opportunities to work and learn in different industries and roles. The work terms gave me real-world exposure to business development, strategy, project management, marketing and relationship management, all of which are competencies I apply to my role today. Equally as important, the work terms enabled me to develop my professional network which ultimately helped me secure the role I have today.

What is your biggest takeaway from the MBA program?

My biggest takeaway from the MBA program is an extensive network of professional and personal connections. DeGroote gives you countless opportunities to meet and learn from alumni and industry professionals, but more important are the connections and relationships I developed with my peers. Some of my closest friends are now individuals I met in the program. I am proud to be a DeGroote alumni and a part of their impressive legacy.

What 3 words would you use to describe DeGroote? 

• Collegial
• Connected
• Current