SOM Success: Three Inspiring Stories of Career Advancement
Story by Ivy Packee, a sophomore pursuing a bachelor’s degree in accounting and a SOM student marketing assistant.
Why is one of SOM’s newest programs, the Bachelor of Applied Management program, so popular? As the BAM program gains more interest from incoming students, SOM wanted to find out why students chose to advance their technical education to the management level. These three driven individuals leveled-up their already established careers. These students are true inspirations and are examples of what emerging managers look like.
Maddy Case is currently working at Fairbanks Orthodontic Group while pursuing her education.
"I am not a person who knows 100% what I want to do. What I do know is that I want to do something that I'm in control of, and for me pursuing a BAM degree is a big step in that direction. I don’t have a lot of time for classes, and I wasn’t sure if I could fit school in with everything else. It was important for me to find a program that allowed me to balance work, school, and a social life. The BAM program offers me the flexibility I need to maintain that balance as I continue my education.
The best part of the BAM program is the real-world experiences you gain from the classes. The educational structure makes learning enjoyable and you get to apply the concepts to your career almost immediately. If you are interested in the BAM program, just go for it! Everyone has your best interest in mind, and because of that you get the best education for your money."
Matt Mercier is currently working at ExxonMobile while pursuing his education.
"The BAM program gives me the business education that I need to really progress throughout my career. It has changed my future and now I have job opportunities that weren't previously available to me. I can take on management jobs that require more supervisory and management skills. A big part of my success in the program is due to the instructors. I work rotating shifts and my instructors are willing to adapt to my constantly-changing schedule. Not only are they willing to help you with coursework, but more than once I’ve reached out to pick their brains about large projects I am working on at my job.
Being a part of the BAM program has been eye-opening and I have learned a ton. I’ve gained life experiences that I would not have had otherwise. A variety of topics are covered that not only help me with my job but also with my personal investing. It’s rewarding to put my education into immediate action. At work, I've led on a number of projects, built work proposals, and presented them to upper management. These projects saved my company roughly $10 million. These types of management skills have set me up for future success in my career."
Brennan Palmer graduated from SOM in the spring of 2020, and is currently pursuing his career at Doyon Utilities.
"The BAM program was created for a nontraditional college student. It’s designed to work around your life with flexible online class options. With the support of the instructors, I was able to work full time, enjoy time exploring Alaska, and still obtain the education I wanted. I wouldn’t say the courses are easy, because that is far from the truth. That being said, the program is designed for you to succeed. Everyone is on your side and they are rooting for you.
My job requires me to work from Delta Junction, so I was unsure if I would be able to continue my education. It is a big advantage to have all of the classes online, allowing me to work anywhere. With an associate’s degree, and eight years of experience as an operator, I felt I had topped out in my field. After completing my bachelor’s degree, I am prepared for the next step in my career. As one of the first BAM graduates, I have recommended the program to many of my friends and co-workers. The advice I would give someone who is interested in joining the program is to DO IT! You won’t regret it."
Photo Credits: All photos courtesy of pictured students.