The Oxford Experience: Leadership, Art, and Career Transformation
🎓 The Oxford Experience: Leadership, Art, and Career Transformation
When I was finishing up my MBA at LSU in Baton Rouge, I never imagined that a simple message from a recruiter would set me on one of the most transformative paths of my life. A recruiter from the University of Oxford reached out about a master’s level program in Organizational Leadership—and if you know me, you know that I’m absolutely obsessed with the UK. The idea of studying at Oxford felt like a dream come true.
I’ve always been passionate about process improvement, organizational strategy, change management—really, anything tied to leadership. In my MBA program, I took a course in Organizational Behavior, and it was like a lightbulb switched on. So, when I had the chance to pursue an entire graduate degree in that subject at what I consider the best university in the world (yes, I’m biased!), I couldn’t say no.
🌟 What Oxford Taught Me: Lessons Beyond the Classroom
This program wasn’t just about learning from brilliant minds in the field—it transformed me in ways I didn’t expect. Most importantly, it gave me back something I didn’t realize I had lost: my voice.
Before Oxford, I often shrank in professional spaces, especially around people in higher positions. It didn’t matter if I had more experience or education—I struggled to speak up and contribute fully. But at Oxford, I was surrounded by successful, thoughtful people, and I realized that I belonged right alongside them. That realization gave me confidence to own my space and my ideas.
💼 Leadership, Values, and Career Pivots
Oxford also reshaped how I think about leadership. When I left my long-term job in May 2024, it was heartbreaking. I loved my work, my customers, and my coworkers. But over time, it became clear that while my values aligned with the company’s published values, the organization itself wasn’t living them—and they weren’t interested in changing.
That clarity gave me the strength to pivot. I started working as an independent contractor, which not only freed me professionally but also gave me time to rediscover my creative side. What began as stress relief through painting turned into a meaningful new chapter.
Of course, career transitions come with challenges. The biggest for me? The fear of the unknown. I had never faced such uncertainty about my professional future. But looking back, this past year has been one of the best of my life. I’ve had time to reflect, grow, and become the best version of myself.
🎨 Art as a Companion to Leadership
Art has been an incredible creative outlet on this journey. I’ve always loved the arts—ballet, theatre, museums—but now I get to create. Sharing my art, with its bright palettes that bring joy or the abstract pieces that help me process complex emotions, has brought balance to my life. It’s helped me maintain my mental health during what could have been an incredibly difficult time.
💡 Advice for Big Leaps
If you’re considering a big change—whether it’s going back to school, switching careers, or pursuing a creative passion—my advice is: go for it. The unknown is scary, but on the other side is growth, fulfillment, and new opportunities. And remember, when you’re looking at jobs, schools, or clients, it’s not just them evaluating you—you’re evaluating them too. You deserve a fit that’s right for you.
If I could tell my younger self anything at the start of this journey, it would be: trust yourself more. You’re capable of more than you know.
🌍 Looking Ahead
As I look to the future, I’m focused on blending my creative passions with my leadership experience. Whether it’s through consulting, art, or finding innovative ways to bring these worlds together, I’m excited for what comes next.
🔹 Let’s Stay Connected
Curious how I blend art, business, and leadership? Follow my journey or send me a message here.
If you’re navigating your own career pivot, I’d love to hear your story—let’s connect!
Thank you for being part of this chapter with me. The next one starts now.
