The DBA Journey: A Path of Growth, Challenges, and an Unfinished Chapter

Embarking on the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program in January 2022 was a pivotal moment in my academic and professional journey. As an entrepreneur stepping into the uncharted territory of launching ML360 Educations, a startup focused on machine learning and AI education, the DBA program was more than just a degree—it became my compass for navigating complex business landscapes.

A Foundation for Growth

From the onset, the DBA program provided immense support in expanding my knowledge of business frameworks, strategic thinking, and cutting-edge research methodologies. Each module and interaction with mentors and peers enriched my understanding of how to build and sustain a business in a dynamic, competitive world. Concepts that seemed theoretical at first soon found real-world applications in ML360 Educations, shaping our vision, strategies, and operations.

Bridging Education and Business

The program's emphasis on evidence-based decision-making was transformative. As a startup founder, I had to juggle multiple roles—educator, strategist, and innovator. The DBA curriculum helped me wear these hats with confidence. It guided me in leveraging data-driven insights to craft innovative educational solutions, aligning with the mission of ML360 Educations to make AI and machine learning accessible to all.

The support of my advisors and the rigor of the program motivated me to explore new avenues, challenge conventions, and aspire for excellence in my venture.

The Crossroads

As the three-year term draws to a close, I find myself at a crossroads. The program has been a journey of growth, but it has also been demanding, requiring an unwavering commitment of time and resources. Now, with 97% of the program complete and only the final stages of my thesis remaining, I am grappling with the weight of my circumstances.

Finalizing the thesis—an effort that demands another 3-6 months of rigorous research and writing—feels daunting. Financial constraints and personal responsibilities have compounded the challenge, leaving me in a state of doubt and fatigue.

A Difficult Decision

The thought of surrendering the program at this stage, after investing years of effort, is heart-wrenching. Yet, the reality of my situation compels me to consider it. While the DBA journey has been transformative, the demands of completing the final leg feel insurmountable at this moment.

Looking Forward

Despite the uncertainty, I remain deeply grateful for the knowledge and growth the DBA program has imparted. It has not only shaped my academic and professional identity but has also left an indelible mark on ML360 Educations, influencing its trajectory and success.

While this chapter may end sooner than planned, the lessons and experiences will continue to guide me. For those considering a DBA, know that it is a journey of immense value, even if, like me, you find the path more challenging than anticipated.

The future remains open, and perhaps one day, I will return to complete what I started. For now, I take solace in the journey and the progress made, both as a scholar and as an entrepreneur. Special thanks to my mentor, Dr. Iva Buljubasic, for staying with me until now. I am thankful to everyone who helped me in this journey so far.

Author: Prabhat Kumar

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