Carol Finck, EMBA ’17

Degree: Executive MBA, Class of 2017
Occupation: Director of Business Performance

"Other programs were more expensive, required additional travel, only occurred online, and were not accredited. Bellarmine offered the highest quality at the best value by far."

Why the Bellarmine MBA?

My career has led me down several exciting paths. I started doing actuarial consulting for a global firm, moved into account management for national groups with a large health insurance carrier, then moved to a niche marketplace where I got involved in a number of strategic initiatives. During my journey I was exposed to a growing dependence on accounting, finance and management terms and skills. A desire to really upgrade my skills overall drove me to pursue my MBA from Bellarmine University.

While various programs are offered, the Executive MBA was the right fit for me. Since classes were on the weekends I did not have to worry about business travel interfering with class. The executive program also requires that students have a number of years worth of real world experience which really enhanced the class discussions and materials produced throughout the program. I researched programs at several institutions. Other programs were more expensive, required additional travel, only occurred online, and were not accredited. Bellarmine offered the highest quality at the best value by far.

Favorite experience?

My favorite experience was the people! The instructors and peers in my cohort challenged each other to become the very best versions of ourselves. The class combined professionals from varying backgrounds with different talents. Classes were organized in a way that facilitated cohort members to share experiences and challenges from each of their journeys which enhanced the insightful case studies. There is absolutely no substitute for face to face experience. An online program could never replace the classroom.

This program is so much more than reading a text or learning about new tools. You can't talk about favorite experiences without discussing the international course. My cohort traveled to Rome, Italy and the trip was exceptional. The schedule perfectly balanced formal education from impressive faculty at a private university, business interviews at worldwide organizations such as E&Y and UPS, and personal time to go exploring on your own. Study abroad is an absolute must during your program.

Advice to students in the program?

You get out of the program what you put into it. Come prepared to every class, finish every reading. Don't just submit assignments with the minimum effort necessary, take the projects seriously and dive in! You will impress yourself with the transformation that can take place. This program is designed to be completed in a short period of time. Truly commit yourself during that year.

Why Bellarmine? (in 10 words or less)

Best decision that I have made in years.