Meet the Part-Time Programs Advocates!

If you’re considering one of Simon’s part-time graduate degrees designed for working professionals—Executive MBA, Professional MBA, MS in Medical Management, and Online MS in Business Analytics & Applied AI—get to know two of our current students! Natasa Knab '13, '24S (MS), and Alex Matagne share insights on their PMBA experience so you can get a feel for life as a part-time student and full-time professional and how being a graduate student can fit into your busy schedule. 

Why did you choose this part-time program? 

Natasa : This program is providing a gateway for me to be able to grow in my job and potentially move up the ladder in my profession. The MS in Medical Management (my first Simon degree) helped me understand the decisions that are made in the department, and with that understanding, I can provide helpful insights. 

Alex: I chose the PMBA because it provided the flexibility to continue working while also allowing me to reach my full potential in the professional world. I was excited to have the opportunity to attend Simon Business School because I knew I would take a lot from the program and apply it to my current role, as well as any future career paths. 

How do you manage to balance your professional work, academic responsibilities, and personal life while pursuing your studies in the program? 

Natasa: I will block out most weeknights between 8:30 and 10 p.m. for only schoolwork. I don't necessarily do work every night, but I know that time is reserved for my studies if needed. On an occasional weekend, my parents will pick my daughter up for a few hours and I’ll take the time to do some reading. I have learned to be flexible with my time, and if my family needs me in the evening, I'll just wake up an hour earlier one day and work on schoolwork in bed before getting ready for work. While the balancing act seemed daunting at first, it's been manageable. I am in charge of my time, and I decide how much I need to dedicate to each class or assignment. 

Alex: I knew that a part-time program was going to be a lot of work between juggling social and work life. It was important for me to rely on my friends to take a break once in a while to just recharge. The PMBA, although sometimes time consuming, still allows me to enjoy the things I love. I also know that although I have had to shift my focus around, this is an amazing experience that has been so beneficial in my professional life. 

What has been the most rewarding part of your experience in the program, and how has it contributed to your personal and 

professional growth? 

Natasa: It's been incredibly rewarding to be able to take a concept I know nothing about and become fluent in it in a matter of weeks. I am by no means an accounting wizard, but I went from not knowing anything about a balance sheet to being able to read assets and liabilities and understand the connection between them. 

Alex: The most rewarding experience that I have received from Simon is confidence. I originally came to Simon feeling intimidated being with so many students with immense amounts of experience and knowledge. Yet, after some time I was able to get a lot more comfortable speaking on the curriculum. I have been able to translate this confidence and knowledge to work and my personal life. I am incredibly proud of myself for taking this leap at Simon. 

As a Part-Time Programs Advocate, what motivated you to take on this role, and how do you hope to assist prospective students considering the program? Any tips for them as they're considering this next step? 

Natasa: I spent years going to in person events and webinars about Simon part-time programs and always hesitated to apply. It took me having a baby girl to realize investing in our future as a family means investing in me and my growth. Going back to school is intimidating (if that is your journey), but it can be done! You CAN do it! 

Alex: I want to be able to show prospective students what Simon has to offer. I would want to also promote the friendships and networking opportunities that Simon has to offer. I think my tip would be to network as much as you can with your classmates and build study groups. A lot of individuals have strengths that can help you navigate through the more challenging courses. 

We invite you to request information about Simon's part-time programs to explore how they can help you meet your goals. If you have any questions—or would like to speak with a current part-time student to learn more about their experience—reach out to the Admissions Team at admissions@simon.rochester.edu. We look forward to connecting with you!