Krzysztof Synak

1. What influenced you to take up an MBA at the Polish-Japanese Academy of Information Technology?

A few years earlier, I completed a postgraduate course "Software Engineering in Practice" at PJAIT (then still PJWSTK), the program of which comprehensively covered the field with which I am professionally involved. Thanks to a very practical approach, a staff consisting of practitioners and working by example, I was able to apply the knowledge immediately during my studies. This positive experience reassured me that such a high level of teaching would also be present in the MBA for the IT industry, and this was decisive in my choice of the University. In addition, the fact that the full program is carried out during a year's study helped to minimize the potentially large time impact of private and professional life.

2. How do you recall your time at MBA 4 IT at PJAIT? What was the most significant thing for you during the studies themselves?

It was a very intense time both during and after the classes. I was looking forward to updating my knowledge, structuring, expanding and, most importantly, providing a practical look at a given topic. Each session was accompanied by extensive discussions that brought many practical examples on the topic discussed. The group of students at the MBA for IT was selected in such a way that one could get acquainted with a variety of viewpoints, which was a very interesting experience. The most important thing to me seems to be the substantive knowledge, combined with the excellent faculty of experienced lecturers.

3. What areas from the curriculum covered during the MBA program were the most relevant and useful to you in your professional life?

The first area from the curriculum that had a direct, positive impact was Innovative Strategic Management. The classes taught by Professor Michal Jasienski added a new, critical perspective on the approach to innovation and strategy building for operations. I introduced several elements, such as creating an environment for innovation and a refreshed approach to strategy, without delay. These changes were appreciated by the teams and are paying off to this day.

Another important area was Public Speaking, which was taught by the excellent practitioner Krzysztof Górlicki. A skillful graded and methodical introduction to the subject combined with many exercises significantly improved my skills. Public speaking involves the need for continuous improvement, so I took every possible opportunity to apply the knowledge on a daily basis. I deepened the information I gained and passed it on to my team, which resulted in many presentations at conferences in Poland and also abroad.

The last but very important program subject was Gamification, which was conducted by the undoubted authority in this field, Pawel Tkaczyk. I implemented the acquired knowledge in the team, which resulted in increased productivity and satisfaction with the tasks performed. The introduction of Gamification consistent with the group's organizational culture changed the employees' perspective on the delivery of change, and added elements of fun and positive competition.

4. How do you assess the cooperation of MBA students during the course and the contact between the student and the lecturer. Are the relationships you have been able to create important to you?

The contacts with the lecturers have always been open and partnership. The atmosphere of cooperation with students has been great, and with some of them we are in constant contact. A great value is the fact that the University allowed its graduates the option to participate in additional classes after the program. Such a lecture was Design Sprint, conducted by Krzysztof Górlicki. In addition to very interesting and useful knowledge, this allows the graduates to continue sharing their experiences - a lively discussion that brings positive and practical solutions.

5. How did the MBA studies contribute to your career development?

The knowledge gained during the MBA studies and applied in practice translated directly into increased work efficiency and employee satisfaction. The team has become more innovative through better strategy. It is characterized by a high level of conscious presentation, which manifests itself in organized public speeches. There is great satisfaction in working in this team, a great influence was the use of gamification elements as well. In the areas we were focused on, we became an undoubted leader in our organization.

6. What values, apart from the educational program itself, were most important to you during the MBA itself?

The exchange of views and experiences between the participants of the studies, which allowed for a more innovative view of the daily challenges of a manager. I made some very interesting friendships that I still maintain today. The added value comes in part from the fact that most of the participants already have years of experience and implement changes in their organizations on a daily basis. The opportunity to consult with lecturers, practitioners who were always there to help was downright priceless. We can validate and correct the change on an ongoing basis using the knowledge of an expert in the field. I realize that it is possible to acquire this knowledge on one's own, using consulting and coaching services, nevertheless I believe that the MBA form of study allowed me to save a ton of time and prepare in a structured way for the next steps in my career.

7. What tips could you give to potential MBA candidates?

Every weekend spent at the university ended with the addition of several must-read items and resulted in an avalanche of ideas. This puts a lot of time between conventions, and the whole study period is very intense. So it is worth creating space for this and focusing as much as possible for this period.

From my perspective, it seems to me that the most important thing is to apply the knowledge gained in your professional life using the experience of the lecturers, as well as other participants in the study.