Robyn Russell

University of Florida, Warrington Online MBA

“Uniquely independent from adverse childhood circumstances and profound believer that everything is for the best.”

Age: 29

Hometown: Palm City, FL

Fun fact about yourself: Nationwide, less than 3% of foster youth finish their bachelor’s degree, and even less go on to get a graduate degree. I’m proud to have used a tuition and fee exemption waiver for undergraduate studies through the Florida Department of Children and Families based on aging out of state custody at 18. Not only did I go beyond the undergraduate odds, but I also went on to complete my MBA degree debt-free, thanks to my company paying for 100% of my program’s tuition and fees

Undergraduate School and Degree: University of Florida – Bachelor of Science in Advertising with a Minor in Business

Where are you currently working? Otis Elevator – Process Specialist

What achievement are you most proud of in your professional career? I Increased territory sales from 1.3M to 2.3M within one year, exceeding quota by 63% in FY2019 and 32% in FY2018, all while overseeing over 485 accounts, 1330 units, and $7.4M in annual maintenance revenue.

Why did you choose this school’s online MBA program? I chose the University of Florida’s online program because I love the strength of the Gator nation, and I wanted to diversify my learning through the Global Immersion Experience course.

What was your favorite part of being in an online MBA program? UF’s online program has a lot of flexibility and allowed me to make my own school schedule around my work schedule.

What was the most surprising thing about an online learning environment? Since I left undergraduate studies, the advancement of digital technology in online education has done an excellent job supporting human engagement in the online learning environment.

How did your online experience compare with your in-the-classroom experience as an undergraduate student? I networked more through in-class courses at UF. However, I still got to engage digitally through group coursework in the online environment. It’s imperative to choose a school like UF that ranks highly for exemplary online graduate programs to optimize your online experience.

What is your best piece of advice to an applicant for thriving in an online MBA program? Learn to prioritize school work and don’t let it build up and get behind you.

What would you change about an online MBA Program? I would increase local engagement through mixers that bring online MBA students together in major cities.

How has your online education helped you in your current job? The online environment helped me adapt to my new remote role at my company, in which autonomy, collaborative problem-solving, and comfort using digital tools are keys to success.

Did you earn a promotion while in the program or immediately after graduation? I earned a promotion while I was in the program.

Did you earn a raise during the online MBA program? Yes

Number of Hours Per Week Spent On Online MBA: 20-25

What is your ultimate long-term professional goal?  My passions for global business, sustainability, and technology motivate me to continue rising with Otis Elevator. Long term, I’d like to manage special elevator & escalator projects across the world.

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