Class of 2021: 5 questions with Dora Tamas

This is part of series of articles where we asked the fall cohort of the class of 2021 to reflect on their time at the university and share what they learned and loved about their time here. For more student responses, visit Congratulations, Class of 2021.

Dora Tamas graduated with a Master of Management in fall 2021 and took a few minutes to answer our questions about her time at the University of Calgary. 

What advice would you give yourself on your first day of your master’s studies?     

I would tell myself to embrace every opportunity and new experience. Reflecting upon my pivot from a career in STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) to a new journey in the field of business, it was easy to feel overwhelmed. However, the Master of Management program invites students with diverse backgrounds, an excellent reminder that problems can be approached in numerous ways.   

Is there a project, discovery or moment from your time at the university that you are most proud of?   

Becoming a top-10 finalist in the international ASEC Energy Bowl Case Competition is an accomplishment that I am proud of from my time in the MMgmt program. This achievement was special as it was the first competition that my three classmates and I pursed. Moving forward, this experience gave me the confidence to embark upon new opportunities.    

Tell us about one person who supported you through your studies and powered you along the way.    

Gillian Robertson is an individual that is top-of-mind as being the most supportive person during my time at the Haskayne School of Business. As a graduate career and engagement consultant, she was someone that I had frequent conversations with to guide my pivot into the field of business. She asks all the right questions and never fails to motivate!    

What is your favourite physical space on campus? When you come back to visit in years to come, where will you make sure to stop by?    

As my entire MMgmt degree was held virtually, I cannot say that I had the chance to find a favourite physical space on campus. Although, from my time working in Scurfield Hall, I have thoroughly enjoyed watching the sunrise over downtown from the fourth floor.  

Now what? What’s your next big move?    

During the final two months of the MMgmt program, I began an internship with Creative Destruction Lab-Rockies housed at the Haskayne School of Business, which led to a full-time role as a venture leader. This position involves supporting and managing founders of deep tech and science companies in the Ag, Energy and Prime streams. I am inspired by the opportunity to be the champion for ventures as they work through lofty business objectives with the goal of building something massive.