Market research account executive. Hotel manager. University lecturer. Project manager. Freelance translator for the United Nations.

Penn State Great Valley student Ahmed Mohammed has held a variety of jobs. But one thing he’s noticed across all positions is a lack of leadership.

“There’s a massive void,” he said. “A manager makes sure necessary tasks are accomplished, while a leader inspires employees to fulfill their responsibilities. I’ve met many exceptional managers, but they are not necessarily leaders.”

Mohammed enrolled in Great Valley’s Master of Leadership Development program in the fall of 2016. As an international student from Baghdad, Iraq, with an MBA and a bachelor’s degree in computer science, he views leadership through a different lens.

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“There is a severe leadership crisis in Iraq — there isn’t an overall direction,” Mohammed said. “Political connections and family control are more common in Iraq than in the United States. A modern democracy requires people who can think critically, reason ethically, and participate effectively.

“Right now, that does not exist in Iraq.”

The lack of educational leadership programs in Iraq caused Mohammed to look for graduate programs elsewhere. After extensively reviewing programs across the U.S., he chose Penn State because of the rigorous curriculum, faculty expertise, and emphasis on research. In addition to taking courses full time, he also works as a research assistant to Denise Potosky, professor of management and organization.

Mohammed has found the courses to be engaging, well-organized, and informative, and particularly enjoyed Potosky’s course entitled Dynamic Communication in Leadership Contents.

“The class made me realize I didn’t understand how to effectively communicate,” he said. “I’m now a better conversationalist and more observant. I don’t look at people the same way as I did before.”

Initially, Mohammed considered pursuing a doctorate in educational leadership, but his coursework at Great Valley has changed his way of thinking.

“Studying leadership has made me a better follower,” Mohammed said. “I have always had trouble with following others, but I now understand the importance of becoming both a leader and a follower. I’ve developed a deeper understanding on how to motivate others and transform an organization. After graduation, I’d love to become part of a think tank or serve as a corporate trainer. I want to change the way companies work.”

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