At SSBM Geneva, we take immense pride in the accomplishments of our students and alumni, who continuously inspire us with their dedication, ambition, and success. One shining example is Marie Glen Madrigal, a recent graduate of our Online MBA in Data Science program. Marie’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, the value of quality education, and the endless opportunities that come from combining business strategy with data science expertise.
In this alumna testimonial, Marie shares her motivations, experiences, and insights, offering a glimpse into how SSBM Geneva helped her balance a demanding career while preparing to shape the future of business through innovation and data-driven leadership.
What motivated you to enrol in the Online MBA in Data Science at SSBM Geneva?
I chose SSBM’s program because it offered the ideal blend of flexibility, academic quality, and a practical curriculum. The MBA in Data Science stood out to me for its strong focus on both data analytics and business strategy, which aligns perfectly with my career goals.
Additionally, the fully online format allowed me to balance my studies with professional commitments, and the international perspective of the program was a great added value. SSBM’s reputation and global network also gave me confidence that I was investing in a program that would open up new opportunities and provide relevant, real-world knowledge.
How has the flexibility of the Online MBA helped you balance your career and studies effectively?
The flexibility of the Online MBA at SSBM Geneva has been one of the key reasons I’ve been able to succeed in the program. As a working professional with a demanding schedule, having the ability to study at my own pace made it possible to manage both my career and studies without feeling overwhelmed.
There were times when work commitments were particularly intense, and being able to pause and resume coursework when needed was incredibly helpful. I often studied in the evenings or on weekends, and the self-paced format allowed me to focus more deeply on each course.
This flexibility made the learning process smoother, more manageable, and ultimately more effective for me. It gave me control over my time and allowed me to maintain balance without compromising on either professional growth or academic progress.
How has the MBA in Data Science enhanced your ability to make data-driven decisions in your current role or industry?
The program significantly strengthened my ability to interpret data and extract meaningful insights for business decision-making. Courses in data visualization, machine learning, and business analytics helped me apply data science techniques directly to real-world scenarios, improving my strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
What long-term career goals do you have, and how do you think the skills from this program will help you achieve them?
My goal is to transition into a leadership role where I can oversee digital transformation and leverage data as a strategic asset. Courses like Digital Business Acceleration and Introduction to AI for Managers gave me insights into how innovation and technology can shape business growth. I now feel more prepared to guide teams, manage tech-driven initiatives, and align them with high-level business goals.
What has been the most surprising or rewarding part of your journey in the Online MBA in Data Science?
The most rewarding part was how interconnected and applicable the subjects were. For example, understanding the link between Digital Business Acceleration and Cloud Computing gave me a clearer picture of how technology can drive business scalability. I was also surprised by how effectively the program integrated both technical tools and management principles.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone considering the Online MBA in Data Science, what would it be to help them succeed in the program?
Believe in yourself and stay committed—you’re more capable than you think. There will be challenges along the way, especially balancing work and study, but staying organized and setting realistic goals each week made a significant difference for me. Remember, this program is more than a qualification—it’s an opportunity to develop both strategic thinking and technical competence that are highly relevant in today’s data-driven world.
Stay focused, make the most of each module, and trust that the effort you put in will pay off—both personally and professionally.
Marie Glen Madrigal’s story reflects the heart of what SSBM Geneva strives to offer every student: a transformative, flexible, and empowering learning experience. Through hard work, focus, and the right support system, Marie has turned her academic journey into a powerful stepping stone toward her ambitious career goals.
We are incredibly proud to have been part of her story and are excited to see how she will continue to make an impact in the world of data science and business leadership.
Congratulations, Marie! Your journey inspires future leaders to believe in themselves, embrace challenges, and confidently shape the future.