Current Position: Business Operations Analyst at the College of San Mateo

Hometown: Mountain View, California

Undergrad degree: Economics

What motivated you to pursue an online MBA, and why did you choose this particular program?

I love the flexibility that the online MBA provides as a working professional. I was drawn to USF because I have heard great things from alumni and current students. I also like that, although it is online, there are still networking opportunities and events in San Francisco that I can attend as an online student.

What is your career focus?

My career focus is to grow into a more strategic role where I can contribute to higher-level decision-making and more effectively support overall business operations. Pursuing this MBA will help me fill in the knowledge gaps I’ve encountered in my current role and deepen my understanding of how organizations run. Ultimately, it will give me the skills I need to advance in my career and take on greater responsibilities.

How do you balance the demands of coursework with other personal or professional commitments?

As a working student, I like that the part-time online MBA program gives me the flexibility to take as many or as few classes at my own pace that work with my work schedule. Some months when I know that work is going to get busier, I only take one class, while in slower months, I will take more classes.

How would you describe your learning experience? What have you enjoyed most about your classes?

One year into the program, I have already learned concepts and ideas that I have been able to apply to my work. I have enjoyed the fact that the professors are very knowledgeable and engaging.

How has your experience been with faculty, staff, and fellow students?

Everyone has been great! The professors and my fellow students are so knowledgeable, and I have learned so much from them. The staff have been really helpful as well.

What industries or roles are you most interested in pursuing now, and why?

I am most interested in moving into financial operations roles within the private sector, ideally at a startup where I can contribute more directly to business growth.

What advice would you give to someone just starting graduate school?

If you have been considering getting an MBA, just go for it! I would also suggest going to USF.