MBA On the Move with Theresa

Transcript

Pursuing a graduate degree while balancing work, community service, and life takes courage and determination. Meet Theresa, a recent MBA graduate in corporate financial management and a proud online Peacock who clearly possesses that grit. Her journey shows how UIU’s flexible programs empower non-traditional students to achieve their dreams, no matter their schedule. With UIU, possibility never expires. Tell us more, Theresa.

– Thanks, Alex. Do you know what I find inspirational? People who take that leap of faith to follow their academic dreams, especially later in life when their lives are more complex. As a staff member of Upper Iowa University, I have helped students overcome challenges and walk across that stage. And I started to think about my own dream, an MBA in corporate financial management. Like so many others, I buried that dream for years, but it never went away. Finally, I told my mentor about my dream, and I’m so glad I did, because with her encouragement, I enrolled in classes at UIU. Being an online non-traditional student, I knew that my academic journey would look very different. I have a full-time job. I’m a board member for a local organization, and I have a busy lifestyle. Luckily, UIU’s classes are designed with the working adult in mind. They offer classes that are eight weeks long to six months, depending on what students need. Earning my degree from UIU improved my life in a variety of ways. I was given a new financial role at the university. As a board member, the CEO comes to you for guidance with financial and strategic decision-making. It’s a huge responsibility. And it has given me the confidence and knowledge to provide that guidance for the longevity and prosperity of the organization. My MBA has also made me comfortable with making financial decisions about my own future. I am now an active participant in building my investment portfolio because I know what I need to do to get to my retirement goals. Upper Iowa University has changed my life, and I’m so grateful that they make learning accessible to non-traditional students like me. Now, back to you, Alex.

– What an inspiring story, Theresa. Your commitment proves that with UIU’s flexible MBA program, students can balance careers, service and personal goals and come out stronger. From advancing professionally to gaining confidence in financial decision-making, your experience shows how upper Iowa University truly supports learners at every stage of life. Congratulations, Theresa.