Anthony Bonvino

Santa Clara University, Leavey School of Business

“Fun & energetic team player seeking to build professional relationships and sustainable businesses with global impact.”

Age: 26

Hometown: Westlake Village, CA

Fun fact about yourself: Love to explore the outdoors with family & friends, whether mountain biking, skiing, at the beach or within National Parks.

Undergraduate School and Degree: California Polytechnic State University at San Luis Obispo; B.S. Biomedical Engineering

Where are you currently working? Penumbra Inc., a Global Healthcare Company; Business Development Associate within the Corporate Strategy Group

What achievement are you most proud of in your professional career? It was the tools, fixtures, and manufacturing processes I designed for Abbott’s next-generation Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator. The pacemakers were FDA approved in 2020 and those devices are improving the quality of life for tens of thousands of patients worldwide.

Why did you choose this school’s online MBA program? I was impressed by SCU’s connections with Silicon Valley, specifically the VC start-up culture and the world’s leading innovative organizations, as well as identifying with Silicon Valley’s ‘high-tech’ mantra.

What was your favorite part of being in an online MBA program? Remote learning was convenient and allowed us to participate in-class lectures and discussions from any location, whether that be work, home, or even out of state. This flexibility allowed me to participate in class discussions while keeping up with a busy work schedule. I also enjoyed having the privilege of working collaboratively with other top professional classmates.

What was the most surprising thing about an online learning environment? I was actually surprised at the significant amount of interaction that took place outside of the digital classroom which has led to the formation of life-long friendships.

How did your online experience compare with your in-the-classroom experience as an undergraduate student? SCU professors deeply cared about the application of the material in our lives and our professional careers. Further, if we submitted an assignment late or incomplete due to unforeseen circumstances, they were understanding and worked with us to help us achieve our goals.

What is your best piece of advice to an applicant for thriving in an online MBA program? Remote coursework is just as demanding with time and effort as in-person classes. Don’t over-commit yourself at work nor anticipate that courses will be easy due their online nature.

What would you change about an online MBA Program? Nothing! I had a positive experience and have encouraged other co-workers and associates interested in progressing within their careers to put themselves out there and apply.

How has your online education helped you in your current job? Pursuing my MBA accelerated my transition from ‘straight-line’ Biomedical Engineering into the Corporate Strategy Group, specifically my current position within Business Development. This new role is feeling like the proverbial ‘dream job’. I never knew it existed and feel most fulfilled when I apply the course concepts in my new role.

Did you earn a promotion while in the program or immediately after graduation? The transition from biomedical engineering to corporate strategy occurred toward the end of my SCU MBA program.

Did you earn a raise during the online MBA program? Yes, the exact amount will be determined during my upcoming annual review in June.

Number of Hours Per Week Spent on Online MBA: On average, I spent approximately 20 hours per week during the quarter, but on occasion would require a 30-hour time commitment per week.

What is your ultimate long-term professional goal? Happiness and fulfillment! I’ve become increasingly aware during the pandemic of the importance of one’s mental health, in addition to finding one’s purpose and role in life. My goal is to surround myself with coworkers and friends that continue to motivate me to become the best version of myself.

MEET THE ENTIRE BEST & BRIGHTEST ONLINE MBA CLASS OF 2022

DON’T MISS: POETS&QUANTS ONLINE MBA HUB or RANKING THE WORLD’S BEST ONLINE MBAS OF 2022