Why I Chose an MBA

Me on my graduation day from Baldwin Wallace in 2022

I have always been a self-proclaimed lover of school. It is one of my defining traits. One doesn't achieve the top academic rank in their undergraduate studies without a deep love for academics. So, after a year out from my undergraduate graduation, I decided to go back to school and pursue my graduate degree.

I spent three semesters studying Mass Communications at the University of Florida and started just as I began my work at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. I loved my classes at UF, but even more, I loved the people. I met some really incredible professors and students who continue to be part of my day-to-day life. Despite this, I knew that education was not serving me in the best way.

I don't consider myself a super left- or right-brained person. Aptitude tests have always struggled to categorize me in that way, so I consider myself a "middle-brained" person. I have an aptitude and passion for business and the creativity behind it equally. Like I said, I loved my classes at UF, but they weren't able to scratch that business itch.

Last fall, I decided that the business information that I was missing would be a more valuable tool for me. There are so many amazing marcomm professionals in this world who are really good at the creative but don't have a knack for business, and that is okay! I am very lucky that I have an affinity for business, and why not flex a skill that sets me apart? All of this led me to my current education at John Carroll University, where I am pursuing my MBA.

I am about one year out from graduating with my MBA, and I am not going to lie, it is hard. I haven't flexed my business muscle this way since I took Financial Management of Arts Organizations in my junior year at Baldwin Wallace (which was four years ago now!), but it feels really good to be studying business again! My decision wouldn't be the right one for everyone, and I am very aware of that. I say all of this in hopes that you take stock of your own abilities and pick a path that sets you apart and makes you happy! If you are someone thinking of going back to school, I hope you are able to do so with an area of study that makes you happy and pushes you professionally!