Jonathan White

When I completed my bachelor’s degree, I wanted to continue my education and further my competitiveness as I would be retiring from the military in 3 years and transitioning into the civilian sector.  I wanted a school that would be more appealing off the resume than my undergrad school.  I sought out many graduate programs in Management related fields and came across the MSOM program at the University of Arkansas.  The program was appealed to military candidates and even had a specialized advisor for those with military backgrounds.   

My application process was not difficult or tedious and very efficiently processed (as any program specializing in Operations should be).  I thoroughly enjoyed that the program was very case study heavy and involved working with your peers on group projects/assignments.  Instructors were very involved, and you could easily tell they were not only subject matter experts in their fields, but also very passionate in giving the students the most effective learning environment possible.   

This program really helped me focus and build on my leadership and organizational skills and better prepared me to hit the ground running as I transition to the civilian workforce.  While all the classes had a significant impact on my professional future, I always look back on two classes that had the most profound impact.  Leadership Principles and Practices (OMGT 5253) and Strategic Management (OMGT 5623).  I have looked back on the concepts and exercises worked in both courses and used them regularly in my professional work environment.   

I believe this program assisted with helping me prepare for what to expect in a very different work environment than I have become accustomed to the past 20 years.  The dedication of the faculty and staff of this program cannot be understated and seeks to improve every student who enters the program.