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76 PCB007 MAGAZINE I NOVEMBER 2024 negotiation, and supply chain management. Each leader has generously provided their time, honesty, and insights into success. Exposure to Other Professional Disciplines My first class in my master's program focused on marketing and, honestly, I did not expect to learn anything that would affect my day-to- day work. However, I discovered takeaways aer every session. While marketers study the best color combinations and wording choices for advertisements, they also examine the best ways to pitch ideas to consumers, build trust, and be strategically creative. e exposure to a marketer's approach instantly changed the way I interacted with customers and cowork- ers alike. Personal Development Each class has challenged me in unique ways. In my negotiation class, for example, we were asked to negotiate the price of a fixed object at a big box store. is assignment pushed me outside my comfort zone while teaching skills that could be used in and out of the workplace. As a bonus, I bought an aloe vera plant for 10 cents off. Career Changes While I'm not currently looking to change industries or careers, many students in my cohort are. I've watched as many fellow stu- dents learn about other industries and network with each other for their next opportunity. Sense of Accomplishment Pursuing a formal education on top of work- ing full-time requires a lot of time and commit- ment to the program. However, with the com- pletion of each topic, I feel a sense of pride in working on a long-term goal. is has increased my confidence in myself and my skills. Broadened Worldview By enrolling in several courses, both indus- try-specific and not, I've come away with a dif- ferent point of view. e classroom setting has exposed me to other perspectives, cultures, and strategies, with each continuing to expand my worldview. Setting a Positive Example My parents have always been an inspiration to me. ey taught us to work hard at whatever we do. I will use this positive example with my own children someday, encouraging them to always increase their level of education as my husband and I are doing, and work hard at whatever they do. Of course, these are just some of the imme- diate benefits I've realized since embarking on my journey of continuing education. e over- all experience has been very rewarding, and I've appreciated the outpouring of support I've received. Although I had some early hesitancy in picking up another textbook, I have had no regrets. I know that whether my long-term learning continues in the classroom or beyond, it will be a part of the rest of my career. PCB007 Paige Fiet is a process engineer at TTM-Logan, and in the IPC Emerging Engineer Program. To read past columns, click here. " By enrolling in several courses, both industry-specific and not, I've come away with a different point of view. "