SFU MBA Experience: A Day in the Life of a New Vancouver Entrepreneur

The routine of working 9-5 isn’t for everyone, and as a young entrepreneur, it certainly isn’t for me. I’ve launched my own business, Write Ahead editing & writing services. This path necessitates that I take what I’ve learned from my recently completed MBA from Simon Fraser University in Vancouver, and help businesses write, improve, or revise their business communications. Here is a story about a typical day in my atypical life, and how the SFU MBA helped me develop the skills and confidence to be an entrepreneur in Vancouver.

My work day usually starts with a work out: as an avid fitness buff and fledgling triathlete, I want a job that allows me to focus on my fitness and health goals. Also, since I live in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, trails, bike paths, and seaside jogs are moments from my doorstep. I’m home before 9:00 and ready to get to work. After a quick glance at my Blackberry to check for any urgent client messages, I take a few minutes to respond to email inquiries or questions about my business and the services I provide. This focus on business development is something I’ve always had, however it was refined and grown during the 1-Year MBA program at SFU. After I secure some new business, it’s off to client meetings, or if I’m lucky enough not to have any, then I’ll settle in to my home office and start working on projects or writing articles. I like to take a break or two during the day to run errands or walk the dog; I usually get more done if I have lots of variety in my work day. Although I usually “finish” work before 6 so I can cook a meal or do some baking, I’m always checking my phone just in case a really important client needs something in the evenings. Usually though, I can relax and leave my work at the computer, and be well rested to start the next business day.

Attending graduate business school in Vancouver was the push I needed to become an entrepreneur. After finishing the program and my major research paper on managing organizations for sustainability, I knew I had enough business knowledge to complement my strong writing skills, and that I could take my freelance work beyond editing graduate essays (although I still happily take on these clients). Through networking, my business is getting the push it needs to grow inside Vancouver’s competitive business community. I have continued my commitment to environmental and social sustainability by being selective about the clients I take on. Since the SFU MBA had a large sustainability and ethics component, I am highly equipped and excited to engage organizations with a sustainable vision.

Now, my completed projects include a business plan for a local sole proprietor, complete editing and formatting of a 100-page report for a multinational enterprise, and a market analysis for a mining company. The work is diverse and I am constantly learning about new industries and businesses. My schedule is flexible and accommodates my lifestyle perfectly; countless opportunities are “Write Ahead” of me, and my Canadian MBA has helped put me in a strong position to succeed.