Ramah Jaques
Weber State University
I want to say something big or grand got me on this path, however, it really just boiled down to always wanting to know more and grow, asking questions I didn’t have answers to, and knowing Weber State has a world class program in MACC. Having completed my undergrad at Weber, I was well-aware of these great opportunities for growth that Weber State could provide me. Moreover, I guess it was finally having a close friend start the program and say, “What else are you doing with your time. . .“ that motivated me and put me on this wonderful path I will always cherish. The path isn’t easy. However, anything worthwhile is often very difficult and though at times blood and tears we’re shed over this bumpy path—this Weber State path allowed me to become something better than I was when I started.
When not working or spending time with my family, I very much enjoy spending time exercising—running. I love to run and started at a very young age. Often as a young child I ran after my dad in the yard as he performed all of his duties, working with our many horses, and at times what felt like living on a farm—but really wasn’t a farm. Running has tough me that there’s no limit to what you can do . . . and when you fall, get back up and run again.
I’ve been recognized by my employer, UMB Alternative Investments, as an effective mentor. Though there is no manual when it comes to being a mentor, Weber State has taught me the value of listening and asking the difficult questions to truly innovate. The professors and MACC program helped me build the confidence I needed to overcome difficult and what seemed like at times—immovable permanent obstacles. The professors at Weber listened to our questions and challenges and developed in us the desire to help others that were struggling for success with new ideas and new approaches to the many challenges into the workplace. Weber state has helped instill in me new strategies, understanding, and approaches to difficult challenges and has inspired me new effective ways to mentor others—creating a virtual spiral of success.
I wish I could say I have something great planned after graduation this spring—a world cruise, hike Machu Picchu, kayak the Amazon, or purchase a motor home and spend the next six months traveling the United States visiting the National Parks—I can’t. What I can say is Weber State and the MACC program has developed in me the lifelong learner—seeker of knowledge, understanding, and personal growth that I plan to continue to cultivate be it locally or abroad. I plan to take all I have learned, the new knowledge I have gained at Weber State and continue to nurture and grow enhancing relationships in all I do. Weber State professors and the MACC program is based upon mutual trust, respect, and understanding with the students. I will continue this philosophy as I move down the road with exciting new opportunities and continue to run, embraced and learned long ago—with more enhancement thanks to Weber now in my tool belt, towards success.