Meet USC Marshall’s MBA Class of 2019

Mason Mills

University of Southern California, Marshall School of Business

Describe yourself in 15 words or less: A former professional athlete in a leadership development program looking to transition into university finance.

Hometown: Coronado, CA

Fun Fact About Yourself: Lived in Japan for 2 years.

Undergraduate School and Major: University of San Diego, Finance Major

Employers and Job Titles Since Graduation:

Winnipeg Blue Bombers- Quarterback

Robert Half Japan- Senior Recruiting Specialist

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: From 2015-2017, I was a full-time employee for Robert Half Japan in Tokyo while also separately competing in the Japanese American Football League (X League) as offensive coordinator/quarterback for the Asahi Beer sponsored team.

Looking back on your experience, what one piece of advice would you give to future business school applicants? Having a strong, written-out study plan is very beneficial in preparation for the GMAT. I would suggest studying during the same time block each day to gain a routine. Sometimes, this is not possible because of commitments to one’s current job, but I found that if you are consistent with your study plan, more information will be retained. Furthermore, to simulate test conditions, complete problems under rigorous time constraints to gain comfortability working under pressure.

What was the key factor that led you to choose this program for your full-time MBA and why was it so important to you? Personally, I felt the USC MBA was the top program in Southern California when combining education and alumni relations. The professors have experience at the highest levels of academia and the existence of the “Trojan Family” is very much alive within USC and throughout Southern California. I plan to stay in Southern California for the foreseeable future. Thus, my #1 goal was to obtain acceptance to USC. I wanted to learn in a program where I knew I would receive the highest level of training and the best opportunity to network and succeed after completing the 2 year program.

What would success look like to you after your first year of business school? Success would be gaining a full understanding of the curriculum presented, building on my strengths, and improving my weaknesses. I will have taken advantage of unique opportunities to grow my network and to develop lifelong partnerships with my colleagues.