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 MOOCs on Coursera and made the leap, finding a program that better aligned with his professional aspirations and learning preferences. Today, he’s not just a student; he’s an iMBA ambassador, an active participant in the Gies community, and a passionate advocate for the program.
MOOC Exploration and Finding the Right Fit
Patrick, a seasoned professional based in Washington, D.C., has been working in consulting for over 15 years. As a full-time employee, balancing work and school was initially more challenging than expected. However, with a structured routine and the well-designed flexibility of the iMBA program, his second semester and forward outlook have been far smoother.
His decision to pursue an MBA came around his 48th birthday when he realized that continuous learning was a core value he wanted to uphold. After applying to five MBA programs (none of them being the Gies iMBA) and receiving acceptance letters from all, he chose a nine-month, online program. To prepare, he took MOOCs in Accounting and Statistics from the University of Illinois on Coursera and this is when he discovered more about the iMBA.
The more he researched, watching YouTube videos and attending webinars, the more he realized that Gies had much more to offer than the program he was enrolled in. The iMBA’s two-year structure, comprehensive curriculum, and ability to transfer MOOC components convinced him to switch. With only weeks to spare before starting his initial program, he withdrew his acceptance and instead enrolled at Gies in August 2024.
An Engaging and Connected Experience
One of Patrick’s biggest concerns about an online program was engagement. His online undergraduate experience at Western Governors University, while valuable, lacked the high level of interaction he desired. The iMBA, however, immediately proved different.
In the Fall of 2024, Patrick attended iConverge, where he got to meet fellow students and even the Dean of Gies. He was struck by the program’s commitment to engagement, diversity, and innovation. “The Dean is one of the most innovative and driven individuals I’ve ever met,” he says. “You can just tell she truly cares about the students and the future of this program.”
Now a student in the program, Patrick commented on how he quickly felt part of something larger than just an online degree program. Through weekly live sessions, breakout rooms, and group projects, every class includes a collaborative component. Even the professors—many of whom he had already encountered in MOOCs—remain dedicated to creating a seamless transition from independent learning to structured coursework.
“The program is truly ‘online by design,’ and they mean it,” Patrick says. “They’ve done an amazing job crafting an interactive, community-driven experience.”
The flexibility of the program has also been a key advantage. With live sessions offered at different times to accommodate various time zones, students can choose the lectures that fit their schedules, or opt to watch the recordings, async. Additionally, office hours are plentiful, with professors and Course Assistants (CAs) offering multiple sessions each week.
Applying New Skills Immediately
Patrick’s role as a program manager for federal government projects has already benefited from his coursework. Leadership and strategic management courses have reshaped his approach to team engagement, client interactions, and planning. His cost accounting class has given him the technical language to discuss financial matters more effectively at work, and business writing courses have refined his communication skills.
“The skills I’m learning aren’t just theoretical—they’re immediately applicable,” he explains. “I’ve been in business for a while, but this program forces me to be more concise and strategic in my writing and decision-making.”
Becoming an Ambassador and Developing Lasting Friendships
Beyond academics, Patrick has found a true sense of belonging. He now serves on two committees and is an ambassador for the Gies iMBA, helping prospective students navigate the enrollment process. Through LinkedIn inquiries, webinars, and office hours, he shares his experiences, hoping to inspire others the way he was inspired.
“I’ve completely bought in—I’ve ‘drank the Kool-Aid,’” he jokes. “But it’s because I genuinely believe in this program and the opportunities it provides.”
Through meetups, group projects, and networking events, Patrick has built friendships with peers from around the world. Whether it’s casual happy hours in the D.C.-Baltimore area or football game meetups, the connections made possible by Gies go far beyond the virtual classroom.
“I’m surrounded by 400-500 of my best friends,” he says of the Gies community. “The global networking opportunities are phenomenal.”
Looking Ahead: Immersions and Capstones
In March, Patrick will participate in an immersion opportunity in Miami, working with a company to solve a real-world business challenge. This experience, alongside the program’s capstone courses, will further refine his skills and expand his professional network. With three capstones in total—two specialty and one program-wide—he’s excited to tackle new challenges and continue growing.
A Journey Worth Taking
Patrick’s story is a testament to the power of finding the right educational fit. “I wake up excited every day,” he says “Even just talking about this program reignites my passion for learning.”
Through the Gies iMBA, he has discovered a program that not only provides academic excellence but also fosters a strong, engaged community. From his career advancement and networking opportunities to the friendships he’s built, the decision to switch to Gies has been nothing short of transformative.