Muhammad Usman is an MBA and master of science in business analytics and information management dual degree candidate at the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics. Usman, who plans to graduate in 2021, shared his experience choosing Lerner graduate programs and how it has impacted him personally and professionally.

Q: Why did you go back to pursue your graduate degree? Why did you choose Lerner College for your studies?

Usman: For me, motivation in life each day, getting challenged intellectually to achieve my goals. That helped me grow in my career. As a first-generation immigrant, I come from a diverse background both personally and professionally. I am well-traveled and very aware of the value of learning. A good education and determination are the only keys to success. I set high goals for myself so I can work harder to achieve them. The opportunity I got to study at Lerner College was a dream come true to get challenged in every class and learn new things every day.

Q: What did you learn through this opportunity that you wouldn’t have learned anywhere else?

Usman: The first impression, even before we started the program at the Lerner College, was that everyone in our orientation session was emphasizing making new connections. That one sentence “Lerner is all about making new connections” was a constant factor throughout my program that I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to make anywhere else.

Q: What is an example of a course or concept that you were able to apply directly to your life and/or career?

Usman: I have been in my dual degree program for almost four years now and over the years I have learned so many new ways of leadership, organization effectiveness, emotional intelligence, lateral and critical thinking. If I had to choose one course that wouldn’t do justice to many great professors I have learned from, I would name Professor Wendy Smith from my BUAD 870 class for her great insight and making you think outside the box in each class. MISY 873 was one of the best classes I ever took. Professor Andrea Everard is a fearless leader and amazing mentor that pushes you to your limit in order to bring the best out of yourself.

Q: Can you describe an important connection you have made through your graduate program?

Usman: MISY 873 was probably the only class I ever took where I made a connection with the whole class. I still remember how none of us wanted that class to end soon.

Q: If you were to describe your classmates in one word, what would that be?

Usman: Amazing and hard working. I am usually the one motivated on a team but I got a run for my money these past few years.

Q: Fill in this sentence: “My graduate program helped me become…”

Usman: A better leader and a person who understands the impact of social responsibility on a corporation and is motivated to implement it in my organization.

Q: What was the most impactful hands-on project or case competition that you were able to participate in?

Usman:  I really enjoyed MISY 873 Tech Updates projects where everyone presented a unique new technology.

Q: What are your plans or next steps for the future?

Usman: I am hoping to do my Ph.D. at Lerner after I graduate this fall.