Dominique Smith MBA Graduate 2018
Dominique Smith reflects on how earning her MBA at Queen’s University Belfast broadened her perspective, built lifelong friendships, and shaped her career journey from hospitality to corporate leadership at MassMutual.
Obtaining my MBA from Queen’s University has been one of the best experiences of my life. I grew up in Springfield, Massachusetts USA. I received my Bachelors degree at Springfield College, while also working every shift I could at a local restaurant. I would then work summers on Cape Cod at a golf course during the day, and then go to my second job at a restaurant for the evening.
I loved the customer service industry, mostly because I was able to meet new people. Attending Queen’s University was no different; the people I met during my time there was amazing. I met people from all different parts of the world.
Our MBA programme was just the right size; I felt as though the teachers and students really got to know one another and we all formed a great connection. I made friends in the programme that I still keep in touch with regularly to this day. During group projects, I loved seeing what ideas my classmates offered, as we all came from different backgrounds and had different strengths and experiences.
The class trips were amazing, allowing us the opportunity to spend quality time together. My first job after obtaining my MBA was as an Assistant Purchasing Agent for the City of Springfield in Massachusetts. I loved this role as I learned to what goes into purchasing and contracting for all the City departments. I am now with Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual), where I work with third-party companies and agents that are interested in working with MassMutual. I’ve went into each role with optimism and a drive to keep learning and meeting others.
The MBA programme really taught in a way that I’ve never experienced before. It challenged me to think differently. I am beyond grateful for my time at Queen’s. It has definitely played a major role in the person I’ve become today. Every year that I go back to Ireland for a visit, I make sure to stop by Queen’s University!