I want to be a beacon of opportunity for people who can't afford the services of major firms and institutions.
Why I Chose UNH's Online MBA
The primary motivation for pursuing my graduate degree is to assist my family and friends who aspire to become entrepreneurs. I saw too many talented people in my community give up on their business dreams because they couldn't access affordable guidance. I chose Paul College’s Online MBA program because I wanted the flexibility to work full-time while still getting involved on campus. The hybrid format allowed me to continue building my professional experience while enhancing my business knowledge without putting my career aspirations on hold.
Unexpected Connections
The most surprising aspect of the MBA program has been the camaraderie and connection I've found. Despite being in an online/hybrid format, I've developed meaningful relationships with professors, staff, and fellow students who share my drive for success. I had no idea I would be able to take part in so many in-person networking opportunities and meet like-minded individuals who are striving to be their best selves. These relationships have enhanced my learning experience immeasurably and created a support system I didn't expect to find in a graduate program.
Balancing Act
Juggling graduate studies with professional responsibilities requires intentional planning and clear priorities. Working at the Entrepreneurship Center (ECenter) gives me hands-on experience while my MBA provides strong theoretical knowledge that informs my practical work. The concepts I'm learning are being applied directly to my current start-up, allowing me to merge business strategy with real-world applications in real time. This simultaneous learning and application create a powerful feedback loop that enhances both my academic performance and professional capabilities.
Supportive Community
The Paul College community has become my foundation for both personal and professional growth. From professors who guide my studies to a network of students and professionals who help me refine my business strategies, I've found invaluable support here. My relationships with mentors at the ECenter have helped me develop my consulting expertise and provided insights into business growth and innovation. The collaborative environment encourages both academic excellence and real-world application, creating a truly comprehensive educational experience.
Practical Applications
My coursework, particularly in managing innovation, has focused on growth strategies, helping me refine my PR firm's business model and approach to client services. I'm learning to incorporate innovation into my strategies, potentially disrupting traditional PR management methods with fresh approaches. Through courses in data analytics and strategic planning, I've gained tools to make my firm more competitive while developing sustainable business practices. As a working professional and entrepreneur, I prioritize collaboration and compromise to ensure my studies enhance rather than hinder my professional responsibilities.
Looking Ahead
I plan to leverage my MBA expertise to expand my PR firm and offer innovative solutions for businesses looking to grow and adapt in today's challenging market. By enhancing my consulting and business management skills, the program is preparing me to help small businesses thrive, contributing to economic development in my community. My goal is to create a business model that makes high-quality consulting accessible to entrepreneurs who typically couldn't afford such services. This combination of business success and community impact represents the fulfillment of my personal and professional mission.
Advice
For anyone considering Paul College, balance coursework with practical experience and find ways to immediately apply what you're learning. Use the program to build relationships and actively integrate classroom lessons into your real-world situations and challenges. Take advantage of every networking opportunity, even in an online program, as these connections will become invaluable resources throughout your career. My time at UNH has been instrumental in refining my business approach, and the skills I've gained will allow me to continue evolving as a creator and entrepreneur long after graduation. This program isn't just equipping me with knowledge – it's helping me create impact right now.
