To my sister cohort, EMBA-136.

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I came to business school to understand “risk” (whatever that means) and learn how to minimize it in the work I do. My focus has been improving healthcare, and that’s really hard. Maybe I was missing a deeper understanding of some factors involved in implementing something new (or maybe not). I didn’t know. But I joined Kellogg hoping it would help me find what I am looking for.

I wasn't entirely sure what I’d learn at the EMBA. Maybe a better understanding of how money works (so, finance and economics) or maybe what marketing actually means and why it’s a necessary skill. Maybe how understanding strategy changes the way we approach a problem. Or maybe its a combination of all these gives insights others might miss. And gosh, without a doubt, Kellogg is a fantastic place that gives you an edge in all that. It’s just indescribable. I look forward to how I’ll use the EMBA, and I hope that, in turn, my institution will be recognized through the work I do.

At times, what worries me is that the transformation the program offers can get lost in the noise of our lives, whether it was job stress, financial constraints, relationship challenges, or just the intense coursework. Something, sometimes can distract all of us and without realizing it, we forget why we came here.

When I started the program, I saw a spark in the eyes of everyone I met at Allen Center. It was full of hope and confidence. Everyone dared to take on the challenge of adding this learning into their already full lives. We all came to finding something missing. Whether it was a new skill, a meaningful relationship, or a better direction to contribute to families and communities. It seemed everyone had so much commitment that it was easy for me to feel like an imposter in the program. I could feel the energy. I saw compassion. I admired the boldness. Not a single person I met didn’t belong here.

More than a year in, it felt that spark dimmed for some, including mine at times. I not sure why. Maybe it gets easier to say no and stay in comfort zones. Maybe the stress builds up quietly. Somewhere in the middle of it all, the “why” behind this journey can get blurry.

Its probably easy get distracted by what bothers us, both outside and inside. But none of that changes the truth: this journey is not about education or networking. It's been about discovering yourself and becoming ready to lead...... better, deeper; personally and professionally. The EMBA was just one path towards becoming the kind of leader who understands what leadership really means.

One of my favorite moments at Kellogg was looking into my classmates’ eyes and, together, saying:

“No matter what..........I got your back.”

Seeing you all at the pre-grad dinner, it was a great reminder to that moment. We have been juggling coursework, work, and life—but I hope we have each other’s backs. My cohort and your’s ...... had mine, every time.

What a wonderful feeling it is to see my sister cohort graduate and to celebrate your accomplishment. This isn’t an easy. You went through some of the most demanding courses designed to prepare leaders for the world. You built relationships that, without a doubt, have become your chosen family. It was so incredible to see the pride in your families’ eyes…….and the calm confidence in who you’ve become. I’m so happy for you.

When I first met you, you were students.

Now, I see you as leaders.

Congratulations, EMBA 136. Northwestern-Kellogg's Class of 2025

With love,

Zohaib

(Emba-138)

(June 15, 2025)