From Chemistry to Strategy: How Ishpinder Kailey Used the iMBA to Expand Her Impact...
When Australia-based learner Ishpinder Kailey reflects on her journey—from teaching physical chemistry in India, to leading global R&D teams in Canada, and now co-founding her own advisory firm in Australia—her path tells a story of unwavering resilience, shaped by bold decisions, reinvention, and a deep commitment to education and personal growth. With a foundation in…
Q&A with Joshua David Tarfa, Gies iMSM Graduate
Meet Joshua David Tarfa, a Nigeria-based senior product manager and recent graduate of the University of Illinois’ Gies College of Business Master of Science in Management (iMSM). In just one year, he completed his degree, secured two promotions at work, and managed his own freelance design business. We sat down with Joshua to hear about…
From Vision to Venture: Fatima Laher’s Journey through Innovation and Entrepreneurship at HEC Paris
A 2024 graduate of the Executive Track within the HEC Paris Executive MSc & MSc in Innovation and Entrepreneurship online degree program, Fatima Laher has always been drawn to the energy of new ideas, the thrill of solving problems, and the challenge of building something from scratch. Her path has taken her through corporate roles,…
Mastering Data Science: Jeremy Samuel’s Journey with The University of Illinois
Balancing Full-Time Work and Online Learning to Stay Ahead in the Tech Industry Jeremy Samuel’s online degree journey is a testament to his dedication and the transformative power of continuous learning. As a full-time employee at JPMorgan, Jeremy has pursued not only one, but two master’s degrees with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Most recently,…
From MOOCs to Mastery: How Patrick Surrett Found his Perfect Fit in the Gies...
For Patrick Surrett, pursuing an MBA wasn’t just about adding a credential to his resume—it was about lifelong learning, growth, and finding a community. His journey to the University of Illinois Gies College of Business iMBA was anything but traditional. Having initially enrolled in a different online MBA program, Patrick discovered the Gies iMBA through…
A Network that Feels like Home: Dennis Harlow’s Journey with the Gies iMSA
For Dennis Harlow, higher education wasn’t just about earning a degree—it was about transforming his career, expanding his professional network, and immersing himself in a program that aligned with his life. From his early days as a high school bank teller to his extensive experience as a commercial banker, Dennis always had a keen interest…
Embracing Lifelong Learning: Steve’s Journey Leads to the University of Illinois
How taking one course paved the path toward a master’s degree In today’s ever-changing world, the pursuit of knowledge is a lifelong journey, and Steve Reeves’ educational path is proof. At 67 years old, Steve is an inspiration, showing that age is no barrier to learning. His story that culminates with the University of Illinois…
GenAI, Cybersecurity, and Data Ethics: The World’s fastest-growing job skills for 2025
By Jeff Maggioncalda, CEO, Coursera I’m excited to share Coursera’s fourth annual Job Skills Report, which highlights the critical skills that individuals and institutions are prioritizing for 2025. Drawing from insights across five million enterprise learners and over 7,000 institutional customers, this report provides a data-driven analysis of the trends shaping the future of learning…
How Josh accelerated his bachelor’s degree journey with UNT’s BSGB
Personal ambition and career acceleration with UNT online Balancing life and career is a challenge for many, especially when contemplating a return to higher education. Josh Chandler’s story exemplifies the intricate dance between personal ambition and professional growth. He embarked on a remarkable educational journey with the University of North Texas’ Bachelor of Science in…
Balancing Act: How Angela Mastered the iMBA as a Working Mom
Leveraging Flexibility and Innovation to Achieve Educational Goals Angela Huwe’s journey through the online Master of Business Administration (iMBA) program from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is a testament to the power of the program’s flexibility. As a working mom, Angela chose the iMBA program to enhance her business acumen and strengthen her problem solving…
