2024 Best & Brightest Executive MBA: Aida E. Adams, Texas A&M (Mays)

Aida E. Adams

Texas A&M University, Mays Business School

Age: 36

“I am a transformational leader, people advocate, optimist, entrepreneur, lifetime learner, and follower of Jesus.”

Hometown: Amarillo, TX

Family Members: My husband, Jeremy, and three children, Jayden, Anna, and John.

Fun fact about yourself: I am a black belt and a world gold medalist in Taekwondo. In 2004, I faced a pivotal decision: to potentially represent my home country, Bolivia, in the Olympic Games or to pursue my future education in the United States.

Undergraduate School and Degree: West Texas A&M University, B.A. Mass Communication; Texas A&M University, Executive MBA.

Where are you currently working? Interstate Bank, Senior Vice President Commercial Lending and Loan Administration; V-Con, Co-founder and Chief Financial Officer.

Extracurricular Activities, Community Work and Leadership Roles: I am deeply committed to giving back to my community through volunteering at the High Plains Food Bank and the Texas Panhandle Builder’s Association, where I contribute to local initiatives and support those in need. I also find tremendous joy and pride in cheering on my three children as they participate in a wide range of club and school sports, as well as other extracurricular activities, celebrating their achievements and encouraging their passions.

Which academic or extracurricular achievement are you most proud of during business school? At the beginning of Q1 of 2022 and through the end of my first semester in the MBA Program, I had the privilege of working alongside Amarillo residents from diverse professional backgrounds, including banking, construction, development, entrepreneurship, investments, and real estate. Over eight months, we invested over 600 person-hours in meetings and research to deeply understand Amarillo’s basic infrastructure system and its critical needs. Our collaborative effort led us to conclude that basic infrastructure is paramount. Consequently, we strongly recommended that the City Council immediately implement our primary recommendations and begin planning for the secondary recommendations to address these pressing issues and create a comprehensive city roadmap to grow, sustain, and develop opportunities for Amarillo.

What achievement are you most proud of in your professional career? One of the achievements I am most proud of in my professional career is my ability to face and overcome significant challenges with resilience and commitment. There were many moments when the goals I set seemed unattainable, yet I chose to push through rather than remain comfortable. This determination not only allowed me to overcome obstacles but also opened numerous opportunities for growth and development. Reflecting on my journey, I hardly recognize the person I was five years ago, as each challenge and triumph has profoundly shaped and advanced my professional and personal growth.

Why did you choose this school’s executive MBA program? Texas A&M was my top choice and a long-held dream since immigrating to the United States twenty years ago. The university’s core values of excellence, integrity, leadership, respect, loyalty, and selfless service resonate deeply with me and reflect the person I strive to become. Additionally, the resilient and influential Aggie Network embodies the camaraderie I value. I knew I wanted to be an Aggie dedicated to “advancing the world’s prosperity,” as the Mays Business School motto states.

Give us a story during your time as an executive MBA on how you were able to juggle work, family and education? During my time as an Executive MBA student, I faced many challenges juggling work, family, and education. One particular memory stands out: in between the first and second eight weeks of school, finals and new course assignments for four different classes overlapped with each other. I was also managing a critical project at work while simultaneously needing to support my kids in their school and sports events. Prioritizing my life and being intentional with my time was essential. I learned to say no to commitments that didn’t align with my priorities at the time and focused on being fully present in each moment. Whether at work, school, or with my family, being devoted to the moment helped me create a sense of balance and make the most of every opportunity. This approach allowed me to successfully manage my responsibilities and excel in each area of my life

What advice would you give to a student looking to enter an executive MBA program? The advice I would give to a student looking to enter an Executive MBA program is to trust the process. While juggling the demands of such a rigorous program may seem difficult and unattainable at times, the Texas A&M EMBA program, in particular, is carefully structured to challenge, support, and equip you with the tools needed to succeed. Additionally, the power of your cohort and learning teams is invaluable. The support, insights, and camaraderie you gain from your peers, alongside the guidance from faculty and staff, will be instrumental in helping you navigate the journey and achieve your goals. Embrace the journey, stay committed, and lean on your network as you grow and succeed together.

What was your biggest regret in business school? My biggest regret in business school was not letting go of my insecurities and fears and starting to believe in myself much sooner in my journey. The energy and time spent in self-doubt were time taken away from reaching my full potential. I also realized that letting comparison be the thief of my confidence, authenticity, and the unique value I bring to the table hindered my progress. Embracing confidence and focusing on my own strengths helped me master this in due time and allowed me to make the most of every opportunity and maximize my growth.

Which MBA classmate do you most admire? Mitch Anderson stands out as one of the initial connections I made during an MBA meet-and-greet at Mays Business School in Houston. From our first encounter, his soft-spoken demeanor, personable nature, and genuine engagement with others were evident. Throughout our journey, Mitch consistently demonstrated care for our cohort and made brilliant contributions to the program. It was only natural for him to emerge as a leader within the Texas A&M EMBA Class of 2024.

What was the main reason you chose an executive MBA program over part-time or online alternatives? Opting for an Executive MBA was a logical choice given my senior management position at Interstate Bank and my experience as an entrepreneur and executive at V-Con. I saw immense value in joining this MBA program alongside fellow executives, aiming to broaden my business acumen and diversify my expertise.

What is your ultimate long-term professional goal? My long-term professional goal is to perpetually learn and develop myself while guiding and investing in others. I aspire to contribute to the positive change I envision in the world by fostering resilient business cultures that prioritize human capital and are grounded in authenticity, gratitude, respect, excellence, and service. Additionally, I intend to explore more entrepreneurial ventures in the years ahead.

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