Meet Elizabeth, a graduate student working towards an MBA at West Virginia University. Between experience working at a local downtown clothing boutique and her dream of one day owning a bakery, Elizabeth decided that pursuing an MBA was in her best interest.
She was kind enough to chat with us and let us in on her experience pursuing a bachelor's and master's degree at WVU. Here's what she had to say!
What inspired you to go back to school and receive an MBA?
ES: I graduated from WVU with a bachelor’s degree in Strategic Communications this May. Throughout college, I have worked in numerous positions at Park & Madison Boutique, a locally owned women’s clothing store. In 2016, I worked closely with the owner to rebrand the downtown location, LUST Boutique. We were able to raise sales by 300 percent, and I fell in love with that process.
I decided my next step would be to get my MBA and focus on solving problems.
What first attracted you to WVU’s MBA Program? What makes their MBA program most unique?
ES: I loved that WVU’s MBA program was ranked in the top 100 schools for MBA rankings. I have had a few friends graduate from WVU’s MBA program, and they have all attested to really enjoying it.
But I’d have to say that WVU’s MBA program is most unique for its experiential learning component. This semester, I was lucky enough to work closely with Dr. Richard Goldberg of WVU Medicine on a team that aims to achieve modeling for a new cancer hospital. Providing first-hand experience and applying what we learn in class is a gift that really makes WVU stand out.
Is there a particular professor that has stood out to you? What was his or her wisdom?
ES: I’ve been lucky to have excellent professors, but Professor Frank DeGeorge has stood out to me the most. He taught in a conversational way, and he made us want to learn the material. You could tell that he really cares about his job and his students. Having Mr. DeGeorge as a professor will be one of the highlights of my MBA career.
What are some other ways you have gotten involved at WVU?
ES: In undergrad, I was a four-year member of Alpha Phi Fraternity (Sorority). I held a few positions in my time there, the most notable being Director of Red Dress Gala. Additionally, I served as a Governor on the Student Government Association Board of Governors. Since beginning my graduate career, I have been a Graduate Programs Student Ambassador. In this role, I present the many excellent graduate program options to prospective applicants.
Note: For look at Thomas O’Neil, another MBA Student Ambassador, check out this blog post.
What are your future career plans? How has WVU helped you prepare for those plans?
ES: Ideally, I would love to own my own coffee shop/bakery. I love baking goods for people, and I survive on coffee. This is a long-term goal of mine that I hope to achieve by age 45. Until then, I plan to acquire capital by working in either the healthcare or banking industry, preferably in Charlotte, NC. The College of Business and Economics offers a Center for Career Development. The individuals working there have really helped me in my job search. My professors and the MBA curriculum have together helped me to hone the technical and professional skills I need to be prepared for my next step.
How has WVU pushed you to look past traditional business models and advocate change?
ES: Having such a diverse class, WVU has enabled me to learn so much from my peers. Our MBA class is made up of the most unique individuals with exceptional backgrounds. Everyday, I feel lucky to be able to grow with my peers. Together, we’ve learned how to analyze and interpret patterns, solve problems, and find ways to improve business models.
What advice would you pass down to future WVU MBA applicants?
ES: Jump in! Don’t wait to get to know your classmates. You will be challenged, and you will need people to lean on. If you let yourself be fully immersed in everything WVU has to offer, you will have the time of your life with people that will become your best friends.
But if you are considering WVU’s MBA program, you’re already moving in the right direction.
If you want to experience West Virginia University for yourself and explore the graduate business degrees offered here, download our free, informative guide below!
