My name is Saman Chughtai, and I am a JD/MBA student at the University of Saskatchewan. I completed my undergraduate degree in business economics here in Saskatoon, where I have lived ever since moving to Canada. I have built a deep connection to this province, as it is where I have grown up, built my community, and shaped my educational and career goals.  

 

Why I Chose the Edwards JD/MBA Program 

When it came time to choose a graduate program, the Edwards School of Business stood out right away. I knew I wanted to stay close to home and attend a school that I was familiar with. What stood out most was Edwards’ commitment to both academic excellence and community engagement. Edwards offers that personalized learning experience, with small class sizes, supportive faculty, and a collaborative environment.  

 

What Inspired Me to Pursue an MBA  

My decision to add the MBA component to my legal education came from a desire to truly understand the business world from the inside out. As someone who is interested in becoming a corporate lawyer, I knew that I needed more than just legal knowledge; I needed to understand how businesses operate, make decisions, and navigate financial complexity. I have always been interested in finance, and I especially enjoyed the two finance courses in the MBA program.  

The MBA program has really helped me bridge the gap between legal theory and practical business application, so that I now feel more confident in my ability to think like both a lawyer and a business professional. 

 

My Favourite Things about the Program 

There are many things I have appreciated about the Edwards MBA program, but one of my favourite parts is the strong sense of community. It is not just about academics, but it is about the people you meet and the perspectives they bring. I have had great conversations with classmates from a variety of professional backgrounds. I also appreciate how accessible and supportive the professors are; they genuinely want to see you succeed, and that makes a big difference in a demanding program like this one. 

 

What New MBA Students Should Know 

For new MBA students, I would say: stay curious and don’t be afraid to ask questions. The program can be demanding, but it is manageable if you stay organized, keep an open mind, and lean into your strengths. Time management is key, especially if you are in a combined MBA program with another degree. Create a schedule that works for you, and do not hesitate to use the resources that Edwards provides, whether it is academic support, career services, or networking events. Lastly, do not forget to enjoy the journey—some of the best insights come from the people around you. 

 

How to Find Success in the MBA Program  

To be successful in the MBA program, you need more than just good study habits. You need curiosity, adaptability, and the ability to work well with others. A lot of the learning happens through group projects and real-world case studies, so it is important to be open to different approaches and to know how to collaborate effectively.  

 

Future Plans 

Looking ahead, I plan to start articling at a law firm after completing my degrees. Once I am called to the bar, I aim to become a corporate lawyer with a focus on bankruptcy and insolvency—at least for now. I am drawn to these areas because they require both legal precision and financial problem-solving, and I want to help businesses navigate difficult transitions in a way that’s both practical and ethical. Over time, I may also explore other areas like mergers and acquisitions as I gain more experience. My long-term goal is to build my career here in Saskatchewan, where I hope to contribute meaningfully to both the business and legal communities. I also aspire to give back by mentoring future students who are walking a path similar to mine, and I am excited to see where this journey will take me.  

 

Learn More 

Interested in finding out how the Edwards Master of Business Administration program can help you achieve your professional goals? Visit the MBA program page to learn more about course structure, admissions requirements, combined degree options, and the Edwards MBA Internship Program. 

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