Thomas (Tom) Totton is the General Manager – Internal Audit for Bank Muscat, in the Sultanate of Oman. When Tom decided to attend the Advanced Management Program (AMP), he was clear about his objectives for going and what he hoped to achieve. What he didn't anticipate, however, was how AMP and his living group would inspire him to grow beyond his greatest ambitions.
From day one, I knew that AMP was going to be different from any other program. I felt immensely privileged to be at HBS. I couldn't help being inspired as I strolled through the grounds, raced to another building for a session, or chatted about a case study on my way to Crimson Common for another superb breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
When you decide to attend AMP, you establish a set of objectives about what you hope to achieve. Very quickly, you understand that you weren't ambitious enough—and that you can stretch yourself, and others, much further than you thought.
The quality and commitment of the faculty is second to none. Their passion transcends the classroom and learning experience. AMP is a community of personal and group growth.
We were a tight group and bonded very quickly, whether at the living group or overall group level. There were so many different personalities, nationalities, influencers, industries, and sectors. The humility, generosity, and sociability of senior executives are highlights of AMP, and they sustain a high level of energy through to completion.
I was personally delighted with the many relationships and friendships that we developed in our time together. My LinkedIn is now more than 450 connections, and my living group is in almost daily contact. I have a group of friends that I can approach on any matter for advice, coaching, or just to chat.
We were advised that attending AMP is like drinking from a fire hydrant. But no one said that even after the program stops, you still continue to drink!
There were just so many great ideas that I had to spend time filtering out the brilliant from the merely great, and then prioritize them by both personal and organizational importance. I realized quickly that I would not be able to apply everything from AMP to my day-to-day tasks. We were encouraged to set one-month, six-month, and one-year objectives. I am making progress on all fronts.
The program has enabled and liberated me. Now I'm willing to let go of some of the baggage that could hinder my future progression. I feel renewed and recharged, with a vision and a purpose that are more defined. Instead of playing not to lose, I'm playing to win.
