The Penn State Great Valley MBA program played a pivotal role in shaping how I approach business today — as both an operator and an entrepreneur. The flexibility of the curriculum allowed me to focus on entrepreneurship while still building a well-rounded understanding of finance, leadership, and strategy. The program exposed me to frameworks and ways of thinking that I now apply directly in acquiring, growing, and running businesses. Whether I’m leading a P&L in corporate America or evaluating a new acquisition opportunity, the tools and mindset I developed at Great Valley continue to provide value. For anyone looking to take an entrepreneurial path — whether launching a startup or pursuing acquisition entrepreneurship — this program offers a great foundation.
Brian Simmons,Director, Head of Product Strategy & Go-to-Market,Alter Domus
I liked the flexibility to be able to choose my own path. There were options available for each category. It wasn’t like there was only one class you had to take and that was it. It was kind of building your ideal degree to how you want it. ... You realize, ‘Using this theory or changing my mindset to this will help me succeed in my job or succeed in my daily tasks.’ There were a lot of personal takeaways and not just business takeaways. It wasn’t just ‘How can this help me advance in my professional career?’
Great Valley allowed me to attain skills within business and data analytics. These two fields are intertwined in industry as more and more companies are using analytics to drive decision-making. My time at Great Valley has allowed me to create connections with other students and faculty that I will keep throughout my career.
Paul Minninger, MBA, Master of Professional Studies in Data Analytics
After working in retail leadership for 20 years, I decided to pivot, earn an MBA, and redesign my career path. I was moved out of my comfort zone into courses that challenged me, but everyone was supportive. Some of my favorite courses were Ethical Decision-making and Positive Organizational Behavior and Well-being. I love helping people and supporting a healthy and thriving work environment, which enhances the success of the organization.
So I set my sights on employee relations roles in three target industries, and I worked with the career services office on resume writing, interviewing, and networking. I got three job offers, one from each of my target industries, which blew my mind. In my new position, I use the information from my classes every day to help management and employees solve problems so that we get the best possible outcome for everyone. I’m doing what I’m meant to do.
Jessie Whiteman, MBA
Some of the value in the courses is learning to work with others. You’re all learning new material at the same time, focusing on one goal together. I think the life skills along with the course content go hand in hand. I feel like the level of my work is elevated.
