Andrew Solomon

Carnegie Mellon University, Tepper School of Business

“Professionally driven father of two, husband, football fanatic, car enthusiast and amateur weekend wine sommelier.”

Age: 31

Hometown: Windsor, CT

Fun fact about yourself: I’ve never lived somewhere where the teams I root for are located. For instance, I live in CT but am a die-hard Philadelphia Eagles and New York Mets fan.

Undergraduate School and Degree:  Bucknell University, Bachelors of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME). ‘Ray Bucknell!!

Where are you currently working? Collins Aerospace, Senior Manager of Emerging Technologies

What achievement are you most proud of in your professional career? I’m most proud of contributing to the launch of the Tesla Model X. We achieved something technically and programmatically that on paper wasn’t possible. We made reality through sheer power of will, dedication, and grit.

Why did you choose this school’s online MBA program? I choose Tepper because of the quantitative skew of the academic curriculum along with the hybrid approach to the program which enabled me to get in-person educational experience while continuing my professional growth.

What was your favorite part of being in an online MBA program? The flexibility, which enabled me to pursue a degree while still working and supporting my family. In addition, Tepper’s online MBA enabled me to develop personal relationships that I feel will last a lifetime.

What was the most surprising thing about an online learning environment? How seamless everything can be when technology and program align. It felt like an in-person experience from home.

How did your online experience compare with your in-the-classroom experience as an undergraduate student?The online experience required a next level of dedication and concentration relative to in-person undergraduate learning. Unlike an in-person undergraduate, pursuing a degree while working full-time required me to actively eliminate outside distractions and prioritize my responsibilities and goals.

What would you change about an online MBA Program? I would enhance the integration between full-time and online students. Find ways to build bridges and networks. While student goals and stage of life may vary, there is no reason it wouldn’t be mutually beneficial to maximize each other’s perspectives and experiences.

How has your online education helped you in your current job? My online education has been transformative for me. It has enabled me to transition from purely technical engineering into program management. I have leveraged the skills I have learned directly into two promotions. Most importantly, the leadership skills I’ve gained have allowed me to grow in ways I could not have imagined prior to my online education which has been mutually beneficial for both myself and my organization.

Number of Hours Per Week Spent On Online MBA: 10 to 15 hours

What is your ultimate long-term professional goal? I will be a high-level P/L executive.

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