Joseph El-Hamchaoui will be completing the MBA/Master of Physical Therapy program in 2021. Read more as Joseph opens up about his experience in the MBA/MScPT, student involvement, and advice for anyone thinking about pursuing the combined degree program.
Tell us about yourself.
I was born in Kuwait and moved to Edmonton at the age of 17 to begin my undergraduate studies at the University of Alberta. In 2016, I completed a Bachelor of Science with a major in Biological Sciences and minor in Nutrition. After completing my undergraduate degree, I decided to pursue the Master of Physical Therapy program. I will be completing my graduate studies in 2021.
In terms of work experience, I am primarily focused on private practice physiotherapy but I also have experience in branding, marketing and sales.
Two fun facts about myself: I love any and every sport (especially soccer), and I have 2 cats!
Why did you choose to pursue the MBA/ MScPT program?
They announced the MBA/MScPT combined degree program during the second year of my MScPT, so I did not have the MBA planned out from the start. I have always had an eye on where I want to be in my career 10-15 years down the road.
I connected with many physiotherapists who talked about their regret in not pursuing further studies in business, leadership, and policy early on in their careers. With my personal interest in entrepreneurship and international trade, applying for the combined degree seemed perfect for me: It was early in my career, I had minimal commitments, only 2 semesters would be added to my physical therapy program, and doing the combined degree would cost much less compared to what the MBA would cost out of school. I knew that pursuing the combined degree would keep doors open as I grow my career as a physiotherapist.
What specific skills and competencies have you gained from the combined degree program in your personal and professional life?
The MBA program has given me greater competency in understanding business and execution. It has increased my confidence in leadership, problem solving, and teamwork. Most importantly, it has grown my ability to network effectively! Opportunities in life often come from strong networking, and the physiotherapy industry is no different. A stronger appreciation for business policy, structure, and management has allowed me to gain further insights on a potential career in public healthcare.
The skills I have gained are directly applicable to any physiotherapy practice and business venture that I might pursue down the line. The MBA program has ignited my entrepreneurial drive, and I look forward to putting what I learned in the MBA to my career.
How would you describe your overall experience in the combined MBA/MScPT degree program?
At first, I felt a natural sense of anxiety because I realized that I was one of the youngest students in class who did not have any work experience. After orientation, my anxiety quickly faded away. There was great diversity in our classes and everyone brought in unique perspectives and ideas, providing real value in my learning experience. I found myself learning from peers who were engineers, lawyers, accountants, communications specialists, medicine students and pharmacy students. Classes were discussion based with the occasional group projects. During my time in the MBA program, I worked with about 6-7 different groups and was able to develop skills such as team work, collaboration and public speaking.
My professor’s insights for their respective courses were priceless and their ability to challenge us was rewarding. In many of my classes, professor’s would tap into their expansive network of highly skilled industry professionals to come in for guest lectures. I believe that the guest speakers that came in to speak to us provided an added value to my learning.
In regard to course load and academic demands, the MBA is not much different in intensity compared to the MScPT. Physiotherapy students begin the MBA after year 2 of the MScPT, so you’ll come well-prepared and primed with study habits.
What was your favourite MBA class?
My two favourite classes were MARK 630: Marketing Communications and Branding with Sharon Bell and OM 604: Bargaining and Negotiations with Ann Pierzchalski. I took MARK 630 as a night class with about 12 other Part-Time MBA students. This class incorporated a lot of active discussion, and great ideas were often shared. Through this class, I discovered my love for marketing, branding and communication. Branding is applicable no matter which industry you find yourself in. The skills and knowledge gained in this course will come in very handy in private physiotherapy. OM 604 is probably one of the most impactful courses I have taken. This course taught me a lot about myself, how I operate, and how to break down negotiations into its mechanical parts. It brought to surface a lot of understanding on who I am and how to bring my self-awareness to any negotiation table.
Did you get involved in any extracurricular activities or networking events?
Absolutely! This is where most of my MBA experience was spent. There were so many fantastic events to attend. I enjoyed the Diwali and Chinese New year events that were organized by the student body. The occasional pub nights was another great way to unwind and get to know folks better in the program.
In regards to networking, my most rewarding experience came from the mentorship program that I participated in. Jenna and Cori (from the Careers Management Centre) organized a fantastic opportunity where students were matched with mentors. I was lucky enough to be matched with two mentors who helped and prepared me for the next stage of my career.
Finally, the extracurricular most dear to my heart during the MBA was the mini soccer community that was created outside of the classroom! I have a passion for sports and staying active. I used this as an opportunity to help organize the MBAs involvement in Edmonton Sports and Social’s soccer leagues.
Do you have any advice for anyone thinking about pursuing the combined MBA/MScPT degree?
If this interests you and fits your career goals, then go for it! The MBA/MScPT only adds 2 extra semesters, and the experiences you will gain will definitely not be regretted. Physios always find themselves enrolled in non-stop courses/certifications once they’ve graduated physiotherapy school, with the goal of adding ‘tools’ to their ‘toolbox’. The MBA is a good versatile ‘tool’ to add to your toolbox.
Interviewed by: Mita de la Fuente
UAlberta MBA Blog 