Meet Joshua David Tarfa, a senior product manager based in Nigeria, graduate of the Master of Management Science (IMSM) at the University of Illinois GIES Business School. In just one year, he completed his degree, received two promotions at work, and managed his own freelance design business. We sat down with Joshua to listen to his experience, what prompted him to pursue his degree and what has paid off.
Tell us something about your background.
I started out as an illustrator, animator and graphic designer, in terms of creativity. I went to Nigeria University where I studied business administration, but after graduation I was unable to reach my goal. So I turned to free design and, surprisingly, it took off. I have clients from the United States and Europe, and the financial meaning of working for myself is more financially meaningful.
Eventually, I transitioned to product management after working as an illustrator at Ulesson Group. Not long after, I started the IMSM program. When I was in school, I actually moved from a by-product manager to a product manager and then from a senior product manager.
Why did you choose an online degree, and why did Gith?
Flexibility is an important factor. This makes sense considering tuition fees and the economic crisis. I checked out other online shows, but many are new or not the level of certification I want.
Gies has flexibility, reputation, and is on Coursera. Honestly, I’m the Coursera guy in my office. I have over 50 certificates (Google Project Management, UX design, software project management) which is actually how I break into the product. Also, Marc Andreessen went to Illinois and I thought, “Okay, that’s a good sign.”
Have you benefited from your degree? What gives you the greatest value?
Absolutely. From the beginning, I can use what I am learning. I remember taking a strategic management course and using concepts immediately at work. I mentioned the “adverse choice” at a meeting, and the boss looked at me and was impressed, like, “Ah, this guy!” (laugh)
The course not only gave me confidence, but also gave me the ability. I can contribute immediately to a higher level.
What do you like the most about this program?
I like case studies because I have the choice of companies and industries. Therefore, I chose the company’s market and the African market in general. We did one in Market Intelligence and Porter’s 5 Power Analysis. So I did this based on the market we operate in Miva, a subsidiary of the Ulesson Group. So my homework will basically become something I can use at work. The structure of the homework can be directly transformed into the real world of work.
Have you seen any significant changes since graduation?
I think [getting promoted] is the result of gaining additional knowledge from the course. I’ve been a while now, so I want to start understanding the strategy and the global market…it strengthens my conversation with stakeholders and how I think about the entire product.
What drives you to keep moving forward, especially during such a demanding year?
I’m shy, but I want to be the best in the world. I grew up in Nigeria and I was always worried about how I would pile up internationally. Is it comparing to be a product manager here compared to being a product in the United States? The plan helps. Now, I feel more confident in my skills. Impostor syndrome has disappeared.
What advice would you give to anyone considering IMSM?
I always say to my friends, “If it’s not now, then when?” This is an investment, Gith has been around for more than 100 years, and Coursera has been around for some time. These are trustworthy institutions that you won’t stand out from your plans. You will be more capable and more confident. You just need to make a promise.
What is your experience in online learning?
This is very flexible. There are live classes, but if I can’t take part, I can see them later. This makes things manageable.
Cost is a key consideration for learners in Nigeria. Seeing tuition fees listed in thousands of dollars can be overwhelming, after all, there are about 20 million naira without scholarships! But it is important to note that the cost is not paid in one go. This is a paid model that makes it easier to manage and access.
Are you facing any struggles during the planning period?
Two promotions also mean more work. Finally, I was like… “Oh, NOO.” (Laughs) Some live meetings were in Nigeria at 2am and I couldn’t always attend because my workload increased. It was tough, especially as my role expanded, but I’ve done it.
Do you want to share anything else?
It’s just that this is definitely feasible. I’m still managing my business, not comprehensive, but still. I finished a year. As you can see, I am still alive! (Laughs) But seriously, it’s totally achievable and worth it even if you do it in two years.
