How I Balance My Career and Parenting While Pursuing My MBA

Sacramento Part-Time MBA student Regina Saldana juggles the demands of her career at PG&E and being a single mother to two boys while pursuing her degree. With a strong support system in place, she also maximizes PG&E’s employer's tuition reimbursement benefits.

We recently asked Saldana about her experience in the Part-Time MBA program and how the flexible schedule has accommodated her busy lifestyle and allowed her to manage her responsibilities effectively. She also reflects on the unexpected benefits she has gained from her studies, the valuable skills she has developed and her aspirations for the future.

1. How has the structure of the UC Davis Part-Time MBA program accommodated your busy schedule as a working parent?

I loved the hybrid structure of online and in-person classes. Having some in-person interaction really helped build great relationships with my cohort and professors and helped me work collaboratively to understand some of the complex material we were learning. The in-person meetings every other week also allowed me to plan much-needed time with my family and for myself. Being able to have some online classes has also helped me balance my career and home responsibilities.

2. What strategies have you found most effective in balancing your career, family responsibilities, and MBA studies?

Strong organizational skills are essential for balance. I rely heavily on my iPhone calendar to keep everything in check. I enter into my calendar every class, family appointment, birthday party, and dinner with friends to ensure nothing overlaps. This structured approach helps me manage my time effectively and stay on track.

Another key strategy is developing strong communication skills. I’ve learned to be open and honest with everyone in my life about my commitments. There were times I hesitated to decline invitations because I knew I had schoolwork to focus on, but most people are understanding and supportive.

Stepping back from social obligations can be tough when you’re used to being fully present but sharing my MBA journey has been crucial. I've received tremendous support from my colleagues, classmates, and family along the way.

3. Can you share how your MBA experience so far has enhanced your career at PG&E. Have you been able to apply what you've learned directly to your work?

While it may be coincidental, I was offered a promotion shortly after starting the program, which was a pleasant surprise! I’ve also had the chance to interview for roles I never thought I’d be considered for before. Having the MBA experience and a projected graduation date on my resume has been a game changer. Interestingly, the manager who hired me, Melissa Negroni, is also an alum of the Graduate School of Management.

In addition to the opportunities that have opened up, the variety of courses and learning concepts has opened my eyes to the business world in ways I was not expecting. I’m now equipped with quantitative skills that were unfamiliar to me as a communication studies major in my undergraduate studies. The program has opened up possibilities to me in entirely different organizations and I’m excited to apply that new knowledge to expand my experience.

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4. What has been the most unexpected benefit or learning experience you've gained?

The people, hands down. I've met incredible, kind, intelligent, and fun individuals over the past few years. My cohort feels more like extended family, and I’m confident these relationships will last a lifetime. The diversity of the Sacramento MBA program has also been amazing, allowing me to connect with professionals across various industries—an unexpected benefit.

5. Can you describe a particular course or project in the program that has been especially valuable to your professional development?

In Professor Stephen Garcia’s core course, The Individual and Group Dynamics, our class embraced the challenge of fundraising for Joshua’s House, a soon-to-open hospice for the homeless in Sacramento.  Within just 14 days, we raised nearly $20,000—almost double our goal.

This project strengthened our collaboration and community spirit and also allowed us to apply classroom concepts to real-world challenges. It was one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had, not only in the program but in my career altogether.

6. What skills or knowledge have you gained in the program that you believe will significantly impact your career or future opportunities?

Each course usually ends with a hands-on project that can be translated and be applied to your personal and professional life. Examples include:

• I can now analyze financial documents in ways I never imagined.
• I know how to organize a fundraiser from start to finish.
• I’ve become a better public speaker and a more skilled negotiator.

I've gained countless skills throughout this program, far too many to list.

7.  What advice would you give to prospective students who are considering the Part-Time MBA program while managing full-time careers and family responsibilities?

I would advise any prospective student to work out a plan with your family, your friends, whoever your village is. You should carefully consider the cost, any grants or employer assistance you may get, and the time that will be invested.

While classes are only two to three days per week, you have to allocate another one to two nights minimum to complete course reading and homework­—but it is possible!

I’m a single-income household raising two amazing boys almost entirely on my own. I work full time—often more than full time—and maintain a healthy social life along with a dedicated extended family life. It takes dedication and a lot of planning, but if I can do it, anyone can.

8. Looking ahead, what are your aspirations after completing the MBA, and how do you envision your experience at UC Davis contributing to achieving those goals?

I am so excited to continue the relationships I’ve developed with my cohort. I’m excited to apply the things I’ve learned to help contribute to the success of a company I love working for and love making a difference in.

9. Can you describe the level of employer financial support you receive toward your degree?

PG&E strongly supports employees' educational success through its tuition reimbursement program, which offers annual contributions of $5,500 to $8,000. This funding can be used for associate, bachelor's, and master's degree programs, as well as certifications like Lean Six Sigma and Project Management Professional (PMP). I have maximized this benefit for several years and plan to continue utilizing it after completing the MBA program.