Monash University - Graduate School of Business - Student Profile - Robert Adès
 |
Robert Adès A key entry requirement of the Monash MBA is that prospective students have significant professional, managerial work experience. Robert Adès studied engineering as an undergraduate and later completed a Graduate Diploma in Marketing, but finds that as executive director in private equity and associated operating companies he needs a masters degree to continue to grow his career. ‘The world has moved on in the last ten years. One degree and a graduate diploma is no longer enough. I found myself to be one of the few CEOs without a masters degree.’ Robert has over 20 years’ experience as CEO, Managing Director and Operations Manager of different companies ranging from wealth management to manufacturing. He has nearly completed his MBA having worked part time whilst studying full-time to complete the degree in 14 months. Although a Monash graduate, Robert researched alternative MBAs before deciding that the Monash Graduate School of Business was the best choice. He has found the quality of teaching to be high and has received good support and feedback from the academic staff. The coursework is balanced and realistically paced, although not a light load. ‘If you put in the work, you are rewarded, which is the way it should be’ Robert says. ‘I have enjoyed the collegiate atmosphere, and the recognition by the lecturers that there is a lot of experience amongst the student body. They are astute enough to allow contribution, discussion and debate within the class. Hence lectures are more interactive and enjoyable, not a one-way street.’ The library, IT, research facilities and access to databases at Monash have been an essential part of the overall experience for Robert, but it is the campus wide wireless LAN and internet portal that have proved invaluable. ‘I can operate from my laptop virtually anywhere, anytime, and would be lost without this access.’ Robert firmly believes that spending a year focussing on his MBA will prove to be the catalyst for change in his career. He has two pieces of advice to those contemplating a Monash MBA: ‘Work hard, put in the effort, and be prepared for a busy time. An MBA is meant to be tough, or else everyone would have one. Make friends and make yourself a valuable team member. You will learn from your fellow students and make lifelong friends in the process.’ |