Are These The Best Business Programs For Managers? 

AN INTERVIEW WITH ERIN NIXON, ASSISTANT DEAN OF ADMISSIONS & MSx GRADUATES

Poets&Quants reached out to Erin Nixon, assistant dean of admissions and financial aid at the Stanford Graduate School of Business. Here are her thoughts on what to expect from the MSx program.

P&Q: How would you describe the Stanford MSx Program, and who is it best suited for?  What would you say are key differentiators?

Nixon: Stanford MSx is a one-year master’s degree in management for experienced mid-career professionals at Stanford Graduate School of Business (GSB). The Stanford MSx Program is specifically designed for professionals with at least eight years, and on average almost 13 years, of work experience who want an immersive, full-time program.

 Stanford MSx differentiates itself by combining the best elements of full-time and EMBA programs. More accelerated than a traditional full-time MBA and more intensive than part-time EMBAs, the MSx Program offers a customized year of transformation and growth within the vibrant ecosystems of Stanford GSB and Stanford University. MSx students live and study on campus for one academic year, and join an global cohort of experienced professionals. The program provides knowledge, leadership skills, and a powerful network to those who want to accelerate career growth, consider a career pivot, or explore entrepreneurship.

The Stanford MSx Program curriculum — taught by best-in-class faculty — is rigorous and flexible. Core classes provide you with business fundamentals and electives allow you to tailor your learning to your goals. Classes leverage hands-on experience, real world insights, and thought-provoking coursework. Due to the experienced makeup of the cohort, students also participate and learn from each other.

Beyond the core, students can customize their coursework with a slate of 130+ electives at Stanford GSB. Students can also take classes at any of the other six schools at Stanford (Law, Medicine, Engineering, Sustainability, Education, Humanities and Sciences). The ability to tailor the academic and co-curricular experience makes the Stanford MSx Program uniquely suited to help each person accomplish their professional and personal goals.

Students also enjoy an incredible array of opportunities such as executive coaching, career workshops, speaker series events, networking sessions, student clubs, and social activities. The Stanford MSx experience is holistic – our students learn to expand their mindsets, think boldly, grow as leaders, build their community, and refine their personal and professional goals during their time on campus and beyond. While the individual experiences may vary, one thing is consistent; virtually all of the alumni say this program is transformative.

P&Q: Why would experienced leaders and successful mid-career professionals need the Stanford MSx when they’ve already achieved so much in their career?

Nixon: Students who are interested in the Stanford MSx Program often want to advance their careers, make a pivot, or explore entrepreneurial aspirations. Regardless of which path students identify with, the MSx Program will provide valuable coursework, skill sets, leadership development and a strong network to reach the next stage of their career.

All MSx students have demonstrated career success and share a mindset that taking an immersive year to learn, reflect and refine their goals is a great investment in their future. Many students pursue pathways they wouldn’t have otherwise considered. Our Career Management Center partners with students to help clarify their career goals, and provides valuable resources, support and coaching to help them reach their aspirations.

In the words of one of our alums, the MSx Program isn’t just a business school, it is a life school. Our students come to campus with big dreams, but they leave with even bigger dreams and the confidence to achieve them.

P&Q: How does the program help students develop the soft skills needed to be successful business leaders, such as communication, collaboration, and emotional intelligence?

Nixon: The motto of Stanford GSB is “Change lives. Change organizations. Change the world.” And that change starts with you. We teach students to be both analytical and intuitive, and encourage them to be bold in their thinking. Many classes are co-taught with tenured professors who bring their groundbreaking research into the classroom, and executives who share their experiences from the business world. The program also offers executive leadership coaching and communication coaches for all MSx students.

Stanford GSB is renowned for leadership courses and opportunities for students to work on their communication and soft skills. One of the most famous classes at Stanford GSB is “Interpersonal Dynamics” or better known as “Touchy Feely”. In this course you examine how you interact with others, take risks to increase your influence, and explore how your ideas and behaviors impact others. Courses like Strategic Communication, Winning Writing, Leading with Values, Essentials of Strategic Communication, Leadership Demystified and Political Communication are some additional examples of the courses offered.

Stanford’s MSx curriculum helps students become more effective and empathetic leaders with a richer understanding of how they can influence and inspire others to achieve great outcomes.

Stanford GSB fosters a highly collaborative environment where students are encouraged to support their peers, work in teams, and raise everyone up.

P&Q: Why are faculty so enthusiastic to teach MSx students?

Nixon: On average, Stanford MSx students have well over a decade of real world, professional experience and most have led complex projects, teams and/or organizations. Faculty are enthusiastic to teach our students because they have many examples of successes and failures to share during class discussions.

This year’s class includes students from 26 different countries around the world! Students learn from each other as much as they do from faculty, and having subject matter experts as classmates adds to the richness of the educational experience.  MSx students are eager to learn and want to make the most of the year on campus, so they are highly engaged academically. In the most recent class, more than half have advanced degrees. MSx students have a high degree of intellectual curiosity and that shows up every day in the classroom and beyond.

P&Q: Is it never too late to change lives and change the world?

Nixon: In one word: Never!

This program is a wonderful opportunity for experienced professionals to take a year to learn, redefine themselves and explore what is possible. It is a personal and professional investment.

AN INTERVIEW WITH PHOEBE PARK, STANFORD MSx CLASS OF 2023

P&Q: What led you to pursue the Stanford MSx at this point in your career?

PARK: With a decade of professional experience and one technical graduate degree under my belt, I was seeking an opportunity to focus on my skills in leadership, management, and strategy. I was also eager to gain exposure to various forms of entrepreneurship, from start-up to scale-up to building a business within a large organization.

P&Q: What were the key factor(s) in choosing the right program for you?

PARK: It was important to me to be in-person and on-campus with faculty and classmates to optimize my experience and learnings and to build strong connections. As a mid-career professional, I also valued program format and the ability to devote one uninterrupted year to my academic, professional, and personal enrichment. Finally, since I came to the program with specific objectives, it was critical to be able to curate my course selection with electives that were aligned.

P&Q: Tell us about the learning experience. Did it make a difference to share the program with classmates who typically have more than 10 years of professional experience?

PARK: Yes! Dialogue in the classroom was always lively and centered around real-world situations and experiences. Pre-GSB, my classmates had successful start-ups (and scale-ups) with exits, had run government pension funds, and had overseen global distribution and logistics operations for multinational companies… and this is just to name a few! Whether it was ice cream, cyber intelligence, Covid vaccines, or aerospace, the colorful experiences of our cohort provided an unparalleled platform for learning and collaboration.

P&Q: What is the most beneficial thing you learned about yourself from the MSx?

PARK: Melinda French Gates spoke at Stanford’s 2024 graduation, and this quote perfectly captures my greatest learning…

“Remember that once the wave learns to call itself by a different name – once it realizes it is not just a wave, but it is water – it becomes free to take on new forms.”

My collection of life experiences, personal and professional, will not restrict me, but will continue to lead me to new, exciting possibilities.

P&Q: How did the career management center work with you to achieve your professional goals? What were some of the skills that you saw most improvement with?

PARK: The career management center did a great job of providing immediate, actionable sessions upon arrival to campus during our summer quarter. These were valuable to me, because they provided a forum to collect feedback, reflect upon prior professional experiences, and set intentions as we all kicked off a very impactful year ahead. In addition, I worked very closely with the Center for Entrepreneurial Studies, which is geared more towards start-up and entrepreneurship through acquisition career paths.

P&Q: What would you say are the three highlights of the experience?

PARK: People, people, people!

(1) Classmates — An incredible collection of individuals from around the world that have become lifelong friends.

(2) Faculty — Esteemed entrepreneurs, operators, and business leaders that devote their time and energy to teaching and mentoring the next generation.

(3) Alumni Network — My time on-campus was only the beginning! Since graduation, I have built strong local connections in my home city and joined a Virtual Women’s Circle with alums spanning all graduation years.

P&Q: What surprised you the most during your time in business school and what advice would you give to others considering the Stanford MSx?

PARK: Surprise: The incredible strength of the entire GSB community and the meaningful personal and professional relationships made through the MSx Program.

Advice: Enjoy every minute, because one year flies! The GSB is an incredible place to explore so many different opportunities … It is the “ultimate playground” for those in business with constant opportunities to take in content and collaborate with others. However, at the same time, it’s important to remain disciplined and focused around accomplishing your unique set of objectives, which very well may change during your one-year journey. Take time to learn, reflect, and reprioritize along the way.

AN INTERVIEW WITH JERÓNIMO E. GARCIA DE BRAHI, STANFORD MSx CLASS OF 2017

P&Q: What led you to pursue the Stanford MSx at this point in your career?

 GARCIA DE BRAHI: When I began the Stanford MSx program, I had amassed over 16 years of diverse professional experience, leading teams and managing complex projects across various industries and countries. I had the privilege of working with multicultural teams, which provided me with invaluable insights into different business practices and cultural dynamics. While I had achieved significant milestones, I recognized the need to deepen my strategic thinking, enhance my leadership capabilities, and broaden my global perspective to effectively navigate the evolving business landscape. The Stanford MSx program offered the perfect blend of rigorous academics, comprehensive leadership development, and a vibrant network, aligning seamlessly with my aspirations to drive impactful change within my organization and beyond.

Additionally, the opportunity to share classes with MBA students was a crucial factor in my decision. Engaging with peers from different generational backgrounds and diverse professional paths enriched my learning experience by exposing me to a variety of perspectives and innovative ideas. This intergenerational exchange of visions and strategies was instrumental in enhancing my ability to lead effectively. The program’s focus on collaborative leadership and emotional intelligence further empowered me to refine my leadership style. Upon completing the program, these diverse insights and enhanced leadership skills proved invaluable as I transitioned into the role of CEO, enabling me to foster a more inclusive and forward-thinking leadership approach within my organization.

P&Q: What were the key factor(s) in choosing the right program for you?

GARCIA DE BRAHI: Several key factors influenced my decision to choose the Stanford MSx program. Firstly, the program’s one-year, immersive format was perfectly aligned with my goal to focus intensively on my personal and professional development. Committing a single year allowed me to dedicate myself fully to acquiring the skills and knowledge necessary to achieve a quantum leap in my career, positioning me to take on more significant leadership roles and drive transformative change within my organization and along my career.

From a family perspective, the one-year commitment was also a crucial consideration. It provided an ideal timeframe that balanced my professional aspirations with my responsibilities at home. Additionally, dedicating this year to the program allowed my family to share in new experiences and support my growth journey together, strengthening our bonds and creating memorable moments as we navigated this transformative period.

Another pivotal factor was the incredible supportive community at Stanford. The collaborative and nurturing environment fostered by faculty, staff, and peers created a space where I could thrive academically and personally. The sense of camaraderie and mutual support within the Stanford community not only enhanced my learning experience but also provided a robust network of professionals who continue to offer guidance and inspiration long after completing the program.

In summary, the combination of an intensive one-year focus on self-development, the harmonious balance with family life, and the unparalleled support from the Stanford community made the MSx program the ideal choice for advancing my career and achieving my long-term goals.

P&Q: What is the most beneficial thing you learned about yourself from the MSx?

GARCIA DE BRAHI: The most beneficial thing I discovered about myself during the MSx program was my ability to embrace vulnerability as a strength in leadership. Initially, I thought that being a strong leader meant always having the answers and maintaining a confident facade. However, through heartfelt discussions and collaborative projects, I realized that showing my true self — acknowledging my uncertainties and being open about my challenges — actually built deeper trust and stronger connections with my team.

Building on this foundation, the program enabled me to further develop servant leadership principles. I strengthened my ability to lead by serving others, focusing on the growth and well-being of my team members. This approach not only increased motivation and engagement but also fostered a more positive and supportive work environment.

Self-awareness was another area where I saw significant growth. The MSx program encouraged deep reflection and provided tools to better understand my strengths and areas for improvement. This heightened self-awareness has allowed me to lead with greater intention and authenticity, ensuring that my decisions are aligned with my core values.

A significant aspect of my growth was the incredible experience of being part of a diverse cohort of 90 individuals from 35 different nationalities. This rich diversity exposed me to a multitude of perspectives and cultural insights, enhancing my ability to navigate and lead in multicultural environments. Collaborating with such a varied group broadened my understanding of global business practices and reinforced the importance of inclusivity in leadership.

Active listening became a cornerstone of my leadership style through the program. I honed my ability to truly listen to my colleagues, valuing their perspectives and ideas. This skill has been especially important in managing multicultural and diverse environments, where understanding different viewpoints fosters innovation and collaboration. By actively listening, I am able to make more empathetic and informed decisions, ensuring that everyone feels heard and valued.

Taking on the role of class president was another transformative experience, a real honor, and an incredible opportunity to give back to the cohort. In this role, I focused on supporting my peers and fostering a collaborative community. This responsibility honed my organizational and communication skills and deepened my commitment to empowering others. Leading initiatives that benefited the entire cohort taught me the value of putting others first and the profound impact of collective effort. Moreover, I dedicated myself to maintaining these connections beyond graduation, facilitating ongoing communication, and creating platforms for continuous support and collaboration. These efforts ensured that the bonds we formed during the program remained strong, allowing us to continue growing and inspiring each other long after the MSx journey ended.

Lastly, the MSx program reinforced my commitment to strengthening diverse cultures within an organization. I came to deeply appreciate how diverse teams bring a wealth of ideas and solutions that drive creativity and resilience. By prioritizing diversity and inclusion, I ensure that our organization remains dynamic and capable of thriving in an ever-changing global landscape.

In essence, the MSx program didn’t just enhance my professional skills; it transformed me personally. Embracing vulnerability, practicing servant leadership, increasing my self-awareness, honing my active listening skills, and fostering diverse environments have all been pivotal in shaping me into a more connected and effective leader. These strengthened qualities have not only enriched my life but have also enabled me to lead my organization with greater empathy and vision.

P&Q: How did the career management center work with you to achieve your professional goals? What were some of the skills that you saw most improvement with?

GARCIA DE BRAHI: The Career Management Center at Stanford was instrumental in helping me achieve my professional goals. From the beginning, the CMC provided personalized coaching that clarified my decision to return to Mexico and advance within my current company. They assisted me in developing a strategic career plan tailored to my aspirations and circumstances.

Through targeted workshops and one-on-one mentoring, I significantly enhanced my strategic communication and negotiation skills. These improvements enabled me to articulate my vision more effectively and secure key agreements essential for my role as CEO. Additionally, the CMC focused on developing my executive presence, which has been vital in establishing authority and confidence in high-level meetings with stakeholders and board members.

The networking opportunities facilitated by the CMC allowed me to connect with alumni and industry leaders, expanding my professional network and opening doors for collaboration and growth. Moreover, the CMC emphasized leadership development, helping me refine my ability to lead diverse and multicultural teams effectively.

Importantly, the CMC also helped me develop the skills necessary to give career advice to others. Through training and resources, I learned how to mentor and support my team members in their own career paths, fostering a culture of continuous growth and development within my organization.

Upon returning to Mexico, I applied these enhanced skills to implement innovative initiatives and drive significant growth within my organization. The support and resources provided by the CMC were essential in accelerating my career trajectory and equipping me with the tools needed to excel in my CEO role.

In summary, the Career Management Center was essential in refining my strategic communication, negotiation, leadership skills, and my ability to mentor others, enabling me to lead my company with greater effectiveness and confidence.

P&Q: What would you say are the three highlights of the experience?

GARCIA DE BRAHI: One of the most profound highlights of the Stanford MSx experience was sharing this transformative journey with Daniela, my wife, adventures companion and life partner. Having her by my side not only provided unwavering support but also deepened our bond as we navigated the challenges and triumphs of the program together. This shared experience strengthened our family and created cherished memories that continue to inspire us both personally and professionally.

Another significant highlight was the expansion of my perspectives. The MSx program challenged me to think beyond my existing paradigms, encouraging me to embrace diverse viewpoints and innovative ideas. Engaging with peers from various backgrounds and industries opened my mind to new possibilities and strategies, equipping me with the insights needed to lead effectively in a rapidly changing global landscape. This broadened outlook has been instrumental in driving strategic initiatives and fostering a culture of continuous improvement within my career.

Lastly, the program facilitated the formation of lifelong bonds with incredible individuals. Collaborating with a cohort of passionate and driven professionals from around the world enriched my experience immeasurably. These connections went beyond mere networking; they became a supportive community of friends and mentors who continue to inspire and challenge me. The camaraderie and mutual respect we developed have provided a foundation for ongoing collaboration and personal growth, making these relationships some of the most valuable outcomes of our time at Stanford.

In essence, the Stanford MSx program was not only an academic and professional milestone but also a deeply personal and family journey. Sharing the experience with Daniela, expanding my horizons, and building enduring relationships with remarkable individuals have collectively shaped me into a more empathetic, visionary, and connected leader. These highlights have left an indelible mark on my life, empowering me to lead day by day with greater passion and purpose.

P&Q: What surprised you the most during your time in business school and what advice would you give to others considering the Stanford MSx?

GARCIA DE BRAHI: What amazed me most during my time in the Stanford MSx program was the profound sense of humanity and connection that defines the community. From the very first day, we (my wife, Daniela, and I) were welcomed into a network of passionate individuals who genuinely cared about each other’s growth and success. This deep camaraderie fostered an environment where collaboration flourished, and every interaction was both meaningful and supportive.

A standout aspect of the program was its unwavering emphasis on social impact. Stanford GSB’s motto, “Change Lives. Change Organizations. Change the World,” was not merely a slogan but a driving force that infused every facet of the experience. I was continually inspired by initiatives and projects aimed at creating positive societal change, reinforcing the belief that business leadership should contribute to the greater good.

Additionally, the program’s steadfast commitment to nurturing both entrepreneurship and intrapreneurship was truly inspiring. Stanford GSB doesn’t just advocate for innovative thinking — it actively breaks down the barriers that often stifle new ideas. Whether aspiring to launch a startup or drive transformative change within an established organization, the resources and mentorship provided empower you to push boundaries and realize your vision.

The entrepreneurial spirit was tangible throughout the program, with countless opportunities to engage in projects addressing real-world challenges. This vibrant environment nurtured my ability to think creatively and act boldly, whether by launching new ventures or spearheading innovative projects within my company. The encouragement to pursue ideas with meaningful societal impact was both empowering and motivating.

Moreover, the exceptional leadership development resources available were a game-changer. The diverse classes and immersive experiences offered unparalleled opportunities to refine my leadership skills. From interactive workshops to hands-on projects, every resource was designed to cultivate not just strategic thinking but also emotional intelligence, adaptive leadership, and effective communication. The emphasis on communication taught me how to articulate my vision clearly, listen actively, and engage my team in meaningful dialogues. I highly recommend crafting your course path to fully leverage these resources — actively participate in leadership seminars, seek out mentorship opportunities, and engage deeply with experiential learning projects. These elements were instrumental in shaping my ability to lead with empathy, vision, resilience, and inspiring clear communication. Through this process, I learned not only to lead effectively but also to inspire others to reach their full potential, creating a ripple effect of positive change.

My advice to those considering the Stanford MSx Program is to fully embrace the incredible human connections and the collaborative spirit that define the community. Dive into the entrepreneurial and intrapreneurial opportunities available, and don’t hesitate to challenge the status quo with your ideas. Focus on how you can leverage your leadership to make a tangible social impact, aligning with the program’s mission to “Change Lives. Change Organizations. Change the World.”

By doing so, you will not only transform your own career (and life!) but also contribute to creating a better, more innovative, and socially responsible world. The Stanford MSx program serves as a catalyst for both personal and professional growth, and its supportive, forward-thinking environment will inspire you to reach heights you never thought possible.

NEXT PAGE: An interview with MIT Sloan’s Dawna Levenson and recent Sloan grad Morgan McCray. See page 4 for an interview with graduates of the IMPM.

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