Evolving from Problem Solving to Empowerment

How did your experience evolve throughout AMP?

I expected the program to be taxing and intellectually stimulating, so I wasn't surprised by the rapid pace. What I didn't anticipate was the impact of the social interactions. I was off kilter at first, trying to make sense of the people and the dorm experience. I knew the program would push me beyond my comfort zone, and I experienced that discomfort fairly early. But that lasted only the first week or so. After that, our living group was gelling, I was meeting so many incredibly interesting people, and I was getting into a rhythm with the case studies.

That's when you start to get in touch with the best in yourself and the best in your colleagues. I found time flying by, and then came the end of the program. I was anxious to be home and back to normal life—but I found myself asking a lot of questions about what normal would be going forward. For me, some aspects of my baseline changed.

How did your living group enhance the learning?

During the first week, we shared what we wanted from the program. Some people said, "I want lifelong friends" or "I want an unforgettable experience." I found that intimidating because I came for the intellectual learning and new business strategies and tactics. New friendships were not on my radar. I also found it a little daunting to be vulnerable and to share emotionally so early in the process. It was hard initially for me, and for others. We danced around each other and were extraordinarily polite in the first few weeks. As the days and weeks went by, we all gradually let our guard down and really "revealed ourselves" to one another. We transitioned from a bunch of strangers to a group, and ultimately to a team with a common mission and lots of trust. I found a lot of comfort, safety, and camaraderie in my living group. I left AMP with several lasting and meaningful new friendships. That is a wonderful, unexpected result.

What were the advantages of spending eight weeks away from the office?

This program is one of those rare, pivotal reflection points in your life. You have an opportunity to unplug from work, from the strains of your day-to-day life, and reflect. While the pace of the work was rapid, the pace for introspection slowed down. I used the time to ask myself, "What do I　value, as a person and as a leader?" "How do others feel in my presence?" and "How can I be more effective, and lead in a more supportive and inspiring way?" Certainly I learned a great deal about business. But in addition, my peers in the program, my living group, and the very structure of the program helped me clarify my purpose as a leader.

It's critical to have the freedom to focus deeply on the program. You can't continue to do your work and participate in the program, given the amount of work and the kind of introspection that's required. You have to be able to focus on yourself, spend time with your peers from around the globe, allow yourself to be vulnerable, and help those around you to feel safe. You need to get comfortable with being a little uncomfortable so the learning can really take root.

Which aspects of the program stand out?

It's difficult to point to specific aspects because AMP truly is a program: It's the overall experience that makes it all work, versus specific components. I thoroughly enjoyed the case work. I was exposed to so many industries and leadership challenges. I appreciated the faculty's Socratic approach. The method enables you to reach conclusions based on your peers' insights and everyone's experience, which has so much more impact than a lecture format.

Another aspect that really stands out is the sense of community you feel at AMP—from the faculty, your living group, and all of the amazing people from all over the world. The program is an incredible combination of intellectual stimulation, community, partnership, and self-reflection. I tried to attend every optional session available, spent one-on-one time with as many professors as time would allow, and took advantage of my time with my fellow participants.

How has AMP benefited you as a woman executive?

Research indicates that many female executives are too cautious, too self-critical, and too humble. We're our own worst critics. A program like AMP can help women realize we are far more competent than we give ourselves credit for. We don't need to be 110% qualified for a role　before we seek it.

Personally, I haven't consciously felt disadvantaged because of my gender, but I think that we are disadvantaged as a society when we do not create the conditions that allow women to flourish. 　We know that diverse teams produce better results. It's critical that we, as women, harness our　potential and increase our confidence because we have much to offer.

How has the program changed you as a leader?

I'm a problem solver. I always feel a need to have the answer to a problem. AMP helped me understand and internalize the idea that my role as a senior leader is to spark the answer in others by asking questions and creating a supportive environment. I realize more clearly now that my purpose as a leader is to create tomorrow's leaders. I want to make sure that my behaviors are aligned with that mission—enabling those around me to be their best.