Daniel Rodriguez

University of Florida, Warrington Online MBA

“First-gen Latino UF MBA, bilingual leader passionate about corporate finance, mentorship, entrepreneurship, and positive change.”

Age: 34

Hometown: West Palm Beach, Florida

Fun fact about yourself: During the summer of 2020, amidst the challenges of COVID-19, I had a sweet revelation and launched a candy subscription e-commerce business! Armed with determination and a sprinkle of DIY spirit, I crafted the website from scratch, despite having no prior web design experience. Today, my candy-filled venture [Boxi Fiesta] is a thriving side hustle, proving that sometimes all it takes is a little creativity and a lot of sugar to turn a challenging time into a sweet success!

Undergraduate School and Degree: Florida Atlantic University – BBA International Business & Trade; BBA Management Information Systems

Where are you currently working? USPA Global Licensing – Manager of Financial Planning & Analysis

What achievement are you most proud of in your professional career? I take immense pride in my professional journey, particularly my roles in top-tier companies such as USPA Global Licensing, Amazon, NBC Universal International Networks, and Avis Budget Group. Within the finance department of these organizations, I’ve held key roles that have enabled me to make a significant impact across their US operations, throughout Latin America, and globally. This includes the privilege of sitting at the same table as the CEOs or Executive leaders of these organizations, where my contributions have been valued and integrated into their decision-making processes. Whether it’s contributing to financial planning and reporting, managing forecasting processes, or standardizing operations, my work has consistently added value and driven success. These achievements not only highlight my expertise, but also reinforce the importance of perseverance and hard work in overcoming obstacles. As a first-generation college student, they serve as a reminder of the opportunities that education and determination can unlock, regardless of background.

Why did you choose this school’s online MBA program? I chose the University of Florida’s Online One-Year MBA program for its renowned reputation, global perspective, adaptable format, and comprehensive curriculum. Additionally, the program offers a unique global experiential learning opportunity where students travel abroad to visit global companies and engage in discussions on global challenges, providing invaluable hands-on experience in current international business. This opportunity aligned perfectly with my career goals, making UF’s program the ideal choice for me.

What was your favorite part of being in an online MBA program? My favorite part of being in an online MBA program was the flexibility it provided, allowing for self-paced learning. Being able to customize my study schedule around my work and personal commitments empowered me to manage my time effectively. Additionally, the diverse online learning environment facilitated engaging discussions with classmates from various backgrounds and industries, enriching my learning experience.

What was the most surprising thing about an online learning environment? The most surprising thing about an online learning environment was the level of interaction and engagement within our small cohort of 20 students and all the instructors, even when we were sometimes in different countries at any given time. Despite the physical distance and diverse time zones, the virtual platform facilitated meaningful discussions, group projects, and collaborative learning experiences. I was pleasantly surprised by how well we could connect, share ideas, and support each other’s learning journey, creating a strong sense of community despite being miles apart. Moreover, the incorporation of real-life simulations and business cases in many courses added a practical dimension to our learning. These simulations allowed us to apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios, honing our problem-solving skills and preparing us for the challenges of the business world.

How did your online experience compare with your in-the-classroom experience as an undergraduate student? Compared to my in-the-classroom experience as an undergraduate student, my online experience as a graduate student offered greater flexibility. I had the ability to watch lectures and engage with course materials at my own pace until I understood concepts fully. Additionally, the online format facilitated diverse and global interactions with other business gators in the program, and at times even within other cohorts.

What is your best piece of advice to an applicant for thriving in an online MBA program? My top advice is to prioritize organization and time management while maximizing networking opportunities and understanding the dynamics of teamwork. Craft a schedule that effectively balances coursework with other responsibilities and commit to sticking to it diligently. Stay proactive by consistently engaging with course materials, actively participating in discussions, and seeking support from classmates and instructors when needed. Engage in networking events and discussions to cultivate meaningful relationships with peers and faculty, recognizing the potential for valuable career connections and friendships. Additionally, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of your teammates is pivotal for successful collaboration in group projects and discussions. Invest time in assessing and leveraging each member’s skills and experiences to achieve shared objectives effectively.

How has your online education helped you in your current job? My online education has been pivotal in transforming me into a more strategic leader within my current job. I’ve honed my analytical and critical thinking abilities, empowering me to make informed decisions and devise effective strategies to tackle complex business challenges. Overall, it has enriched my knowledge and equipped me with the strategic mindset and leadership acumen necessary to drive innovation and success in my current role as Manager of Financial Planning & Analysis.

Did you earn a promotion while in the program or immediately after graduation? I didn’t personally experience a promotion during the program or immediately after graduation as I started my current role the same week I began the One Year Online MBA. However, I have been very fortunate to receive significant support from USPA Global Licensing.

Why did you pursue an online MBA program instead of a full-time residential program? As a working professional, I sought a program that could accommodate my studies alongside my career and personal commitments. Opting for an online format over a full-time residential program allowed me to manage my workload without the need for relocation or disruption. This choice not only provided me with flexibility but also granted access to diverse perspectives and global networking opportunities. Learning at my own pace, I could continue my growth as a finance professional while balancing other responsibilities.

Number of Hours Per Week Spent on an Online MBA: About 15 to 25 hours per week depending on number of courses I was enrolled in per semester and/or number of deliverables due each week for each course.

What is your ultimate long-term professional goal? My ultimate long-term professional goal is to transition into a career in academia as a college professor, leveraging my industry experience to educate and inspire future generations of business leaders while owning a successful business and making a positive impact on society.

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