Graduate Programs

06/01/2012 MBA 571 - ADVENTURE-BASED LEADERSHIP I just got back from a weekend of rock climbing and conflict training with a group of Seattle U. students.  While this might sound like an interesting activity in general, it turns out this is actually a class offered through the MBA program!  According to the course syllabus: (http://webapps.seattleu.edu/albers/syllabi/12SQ_MGMT571_Weis.pdf ):   “The Adventure-Based Leadership class offers an opportunity to shift beyond the workplace and academic spheres into a learning laboratory setting. This learning opportunity does not take place in isolation, but is supported by strong background training in leadership skills (goal setting, team building, effective communication, risk taking, problem solving, and trust building), as well as an appropriate grounding in the outdoor environment that serves as the course “classroom.” Participants will be asked to experiment with and practice various roles necessary to an effective, high performing team.” Well, whether it’s becoming a better manager, team-member, leader, or person, this course offers a great opportunity to learn about your skills, weaknesses, and methods for improving them – all outside of the classroom.  There is much more to it than simply rock-climbing, but where else can you get course credit for an activity like that?! I am very thankful for this class and all that it has offered.  It has provided an opportunity to learn more about my own management style, to learn how to work better with others, and to learn communication strategies that are already helping with my current conflicts.  Thank you, Bill, for teaching this class, and Kudos to Seattle U. for making it an available part of the curriculum.  - Dan Klein