Thinking About An Online Management Degree? [Interview]
Students share why an online management degree from Saint Leo will help them meet their career goals.
Find out what motivated five students to enroll in Saint Leo University's online management degree program and their goals for the future.
Rodolfo "Rudi" Uria always knew he wanted to be a leader. But it wasn't until he began working as a consumer loan specialist at USAA Federal Savings Bank that he decided to do something about it.
That's when Uria enrolled in Saint Leo University's online business administration-management degree program.
Today, just a few classes shy of graduation, Uria hopes to use the skills he's learned to move up in his job with USAA and one day own his own business.
"This has been a great journey and experience for me," he says. "Enrolling in Saint Leo has been one of the best decisions that I have ever made in my life."
Uria isn't alone.
More and more, adult online learners are bolstering their current work experience with a management degree. Some are looking to advance their careers; others are looking to make a change.
"Everything can be looked at from a management context," says Dr. Ronda Mariani, assistant professor of management and marketing at Saint Leo. "A management degree gives you the ability to work in different fields. It opens up your marketability."
Christina Youngblood, an executive secretary at a children's hospital, plans to use the management degree she'll earn in the spring – along with a marketing degree – to launch a new career teaching business and marketing at a local community college.
"Opportunity is everywhere," says Mariani. "With a management degree the field is wide open."
Thinking about a adding a management degree to your resume?
You might be interested to read what motivated five students to enroll in Saint Leo's online management degree program and what they plan to do after graduation.
Kwai Kelly
Management major
Completing program Summer 2015
Are you currently employed and if so, what do you do?
I am not currently employed. I plan to re-enter the workforce after completing my degree.
Why did you decide to pursue a degree in management?
I have 22 years of military experience planning, organizing and leading. I wanted to add a bachelor's degree in management to my resume.
What are your career plans?
I plan on taking my experience to corporate America.
Why did you decide to pursue your degree online?
Pursuing my degree online affords me the opportunity to work and do volunteer activities that a traditional classroom program does not allow.
What advice do you have for someone considering an online degree in business administration- management?
If you are looking for a challenging and versatile degree that can be used in health care, advertising and the insurance industry, consider pursuing a management degree.
Lenore Sevier
Management major
Midway through program
Are you currently employed and if so, what do you do?
Yes, I am a contracting and procurement specialist with the Department of Homeland Security/United States Coast Guard.
Why did you decide to pursue a degree in management?
I would like to advance my career, and a promotion to the next pay grade requires a degree in business.
What are your career plans?
I hope to receive a promotion.
Why did you decide to pursue your degree online?
Both my field of work and my position require extensive travel.
What advice do you have for someone considering an online degree in business administration-management?
Time management is key! If you are used to 16-week courses, be prepared to work at a fast pace.
Rodolfo Uria
Management major
Graduating Summer 2015
Are you currently employed and if so, what do you do?
Yes, I work for USAA Federal Savings Bank as a consumer loans specialist. My responsibilities range from generating loans to correcting and resending titling information.
Why did you decide to pursue a degree in management?
I have always wanted to be a leader, particularly now with the experiences I have had at USAA. I love the feeling of contributing to big projects and being a great asset to the company.
What are your career plans?
I would like to be both self-employed and to move up in my current company.
Why did you decide to pursue your degree online?
Traveling was the biggest reason. With an online degree I do not have to travel an hour to and from school. I can stay at home and save time and gas money. This allows me to spend more time doing homework and less time driving; I love it.
What advice do you have for someone considering an online degree in business administration-management?
I highly recommend online studies for people who are always on the go and simply do not have time to dive to a classroom. This has been one of the best decisions that I have ever made and a true blessing for me. I am learning every day and enjoying every bit of this great experience. Thank you Saint Leo.
Christina Youngblood
Dual major – management and marketing
Graduating Spring 2015
Are you currently employed and if so, what do you do?
Yes, I work at Akron Children's Hospital in Akron, Ohio, as the secretary to the director of developmental pediatrics and physiatry.
Why did you decide to pursue a degree in management?
I have always seen myself managing my own business. Since I have no management expertise, I knew the best way to get it was to further my education.
What are your career plans?
Immediately after graduating with my bachelor's degree, I plan to begin working on an MBA. I would like to become a college professor teaching business and marketing at a nearby community college.
Why did you decide to pursue your degree online?
Pursuing my degree online allows me to work full time and afford the new house that my husband and I just purchased. It gives me financial freedom. Being able to do classes at the time most convenient for me has opened so many doors for my future.
What advice do you have for someone considering an online degree in business administration- management?
Keep an open mind and know that through hard work you can achieve your goal of earning your degree. An online degree gives you the opportunity to advance your education in the comfort of your home – a judgment-free zone. Regardless of your age or location, you have the opportunity to earn a degree that can help you advance to management or even further.
Jeff Marschewski
Management major
Midway through program
Are you currently employed and if so, what do you do?
Yes, I am active duty Army and work as an assistant instructor for the Reserve Officer's Training Course.
Why did you decide to pursue a degree in management?
It seemed fitting for my current job in the Army. I have managed people for more than 10 years, so this is what I want to do when my Army career is over.
What are your career plans?
I would like to retire from the Army and go into business, either as a consultant or an economist.
Why did you decide to pursue your degree online?
I work full time so it allows me to be flexible with my schedule.
What advice do you have for someone considering an online degree in business administration- management?
If you are pursuing an online degree you are probably busy with life or work. Formulate a daily schedule with your online work, and stay involved in your classes and with your classmates. Also, take advantage of opportunities to develop your leadership skills and look for employment opportunities.
Are you considering an online management degree? Do you have any questions about Saint Leo's program?
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