For Marika Marty, Ivey’s MBA Association’s newest president, the one-of-a-kind Ivey experience was something she needed to be a part of.
“Many people who’ve come through Ivey speak to the fact that it’s not just a network you gain – it’s a family,” said Marty. “We lift each other up – we’re generous to each other – the same way that a family is.”
Members of the MBA Association (MBAA) are elected by the class to represent the student body's interests as one united voice. Marty said her goal is to create a class culture that celebrates diversity and whose members work closely and cohesively together.
Marty is the first female MBAA president in more than 15 years, but gender didn’t play a part in her campaign for presidency.
“I think that the class was looking for the best person to do the job,” she said. “We have a very diverse group of people from different backgrounds around the world. Overcoming communication challenges, social norms and feeling outside of your comfort zone can be a challenge, but as Canadians we also know what an asset it can be as we grow together.”
Although it didn’t play a role in her campaign, Marty said being a woman did influence her decision to pursue her MBA.
“I didn’t apply for a number of years because I had a false idea I had to choose between starting a family and focusing on other things in my life, or focusing on my career,” said Marty. “But I decided I wanted to push myself as far as I can go and really stretch to see what I can accomplish. As women, sometimes we sell ourselves short. Being able to embrace opportunity is the real challenge."
Marty said stepping into the role has been very well received by her classmates and she looks forward to all of the experiences the 2018-2019 school year will bring.
