Cam Stevenson, Kaplan Scholar 2020-2022

Cam Stevenson was awarded a scholarship to study Kaplan Business School’s Master of Business Administration in 2020 as part of the ACA and Kaplan Australia scholarship initiative.

Cam Stevenson is an all-rounder who has represented the Melbourne Renegades in the BBL, as well as the United States Cricket team.

Currently working in engineering, the ACA / Kaplan scholarship initiative was the catalyst for Cam to expand on his current project management role through Kaplan Business School’s (KBS) MBA with a double-specialisation in International Leadership and Project Management.

Cam viewed his study with KBS as an opportunity to gain a much deeper and insightful understanding of how international markets work. It also complemented a business management and leadership undergraduate degree he held.

According to Cam, the process to enrol was seamless once the scholarship was awarded.

“I chose to study full-time because it was the middle of COVID and I thought, I better use this time to do something beneficial to me in the long run,” says Cam.

“I studied two specialisations (majors) instead of one, which would give me the opportunity to do some electives across different streams.”

Cam’s study schedule allowed him to finished his MBA in about three years, something he describes as tough work and particularly demanding in terms of both work and studying full-time.

“Once we came out of COVID, it was balancing study with my social life and work, which was pretty hectic there for a little while, but ultimately a good thing.”

Having found that balance, Cam says the most rewarding part of completing his MBA with KBS was being able to apply a lot of the skills he learned and the experiences he gained in his actual work.

“A lot of the case studies we did were really relatable for me. So, that’s been really helpful to have and then a lot of theories in the international leadership has very much tied in in the general management principals, such as managing diversity, different styles of management in the workplace, and understanding people coming from diverse backgrounds.”

Cam considers these to be all essential capabilities and skills in a modern workforce that’s an important part of personally progressing through the ranks of an organisation.

“Both of the two streams I majored in were helpful in different ways, but they also tied in so closely with where I’m trying to go with my career; I found them extremely helpful.”

Cam’s advice to other ACA members who are thinking about applying for a scholarship is simple.

“Just do it!”

His view is that you’re better off being in the race by applying for a scholarship as you never know what might happen.

“The year I applied, I threw my hat in the ring, not expecting to get much out of it … but once you get into that situation, if you’re there and you’re in the race, then you’re a chance to get it.

“I’m so thankful I was awarded a scholarship to study my MBA at KBS. It has been extremely beneficial to both my career and personal and professional development.”

Cam sees the ACA / Kaplan scholarship initiative as a prestigious opportunity, one that was of significant personal benefit.

“To have an MBA on your resume is massive. As someone who studied a double degree at undergraduate level, to have that next step, particularly in business, which is an MBA from a highly-regarded institution like KBS who has a big reputation across the industry.”

Cam doubts he would have done it without the opportunity that was given by the ACA and Kaplan.

“I think it’s too good an opportunity to pass up if you’re thinking about planning for life after cricket and what the next stage of career might be.”