One Year Later: Reflecting On My MBA Journey

It’s hard to believe, but it has been one year since I earned my MBA from the University of South Florida (USF). I’ve been reflecting a lot lately—not just about the academic experience, but how this past year has shown me the real value of the degree. The MBA shaped more than just my résumé—it shaped how I lead, how I communicate, and how I show up in every situation.

When I graduated with my bachelor’s in Business Management from USF in 2022, I didn’t delete my Canvas app or stop checking my inbox. I knew I’d be right back at it in August, beginning my MBA. I opted for the online program because I was working full-time as the District Office Manager for Congressman Charlie Crist, while also serving in USF student government (I’d just been elected the Student Governor at the St. Petersburg campus). Between both of those responsibilities, an in-person program just wasn’t in the cards.

WHY NOW? WHY AN MBA?

Even so, when I logged into my first course—Organizational Behavior and Leadership—I felt the weight of imposter syndrome. I was 22 and fresh out of undergrad. Many of my classmates were already well into their careers—professionals from industries like healthcare, accounting, and consulting. They brought real-world experience to every discussion. I brought energy, curiosity, and ambition—but admittedly, not a lot of real-world experience.

And I got asked this question more than once: Why jump into an MBA now instead of getting a few years of experience first?

At the time, my answer was rooted in a gut feeling—I believed the skills I’d gain would be transferable to wherever I landed. I didn’t have one job title or company in mind. What I did know was that I wanted to be prepared to lead—whether in government, business, or social impact. I wanted to be someone who could connect people, understand systems, and solve problems. I pictured myself working across sectors and borders—and an MBA felt like a launchpad for that kind of work.

DARING TO BE DIFFERENT

As someone who’s always gravitated toward diverse, mission-driven work, I’ve never fit neatly into one lane. I currently serve as a Global Goals Ambassador for the United Nations Association of the USA. I’ve also been a Youth Delegate for the World Bank, and served as President of the National Association of Graduate-Professional Students. In addition, I advise Pentland Brands as a youth leader focused on business practices.

In some of those spaces, people hold master’s degrees in science or public policy. On paper, an MBA can seem like an odd fit. But in practice, the training I received—especially in areas like project management, data-driven decision-making, and stakeholder engagement—has been directly relevant. When I’m designing strategy, helping build new initiatives, or engaging in high-level advocacy, I lean on those skills every time.

Looking back, USF’s MBA program worked for me because of its flexibility and strong national ranking. I also appreciated that my undergraduate GPA allowed me to skip standardized testing, and that unused scholarship money could be transferred over. Most of all, I saw value in being in Tampa Bay—a region full of opportunity and home to several Fortune 500 companies. I was eager to take what I was learning in class and put it to use right away in the community.

LESSONS FROM THE CAPSTONE

One of the most significant learnings for me was my capstone class. I worked with a team to help a local boat dealership explore new business ideas. Specifically, they wanted to expand into boat rentals and emergency assistance services for customers experiencing breakdowns on the water. It wasn’t just a standard class project. We conducted financial forecasting, customer research, and scenario planning. We even pitched our ideas directly to company leadership.

The experience helped me understand how to manage a project from start to finish—and, more importantly, how to answer tough questions. What are the risks? How would this scale? What happens if demand doesn’t meet expectations? I walked away feeling much more confident in my ability to lead real-world initiatives, not just memorize theories.

Another course that surprised me was in business improv, Design Management Thinking. It was a short, intensive class, but the lessons stuck. We were tasked with designing a new model for career coaching services at USF’s Muma College of Business. At first, it seemed straightforward like any other class. But then came new curveballs that were introduced mid-project design: budget changes, shifting student needs, and unexpected stakeholder feedback. We had to pivot quickly, stay focused, and work as a team under pressure.

A LOOK AHEAD

What I learned wasn’t just about coaching models—it was about adaptability. I came to understand that leadership isn’t just about having a plan. It’s about staying calm when things don’t go according to plan. That class helped me practice thinking on my feet and holding steady in the face of uncertainty—skills I’ve needed time and time again since graduating.

Right now, I’m living in Osaka, Japan, serving as a USA Youth Ambassador at the 2025 World Expo. I spend my days supporting international guests at the USA Pavilion and working alongside peers from around the world. It’s been an incredible experience—but again, people ask: “You have an MBA—why are you doing this?”

This time, I have an answer that I believe in. My MBA wasn’t just about preparing me for one job. It prepared me to lead with intention, communicate with clarity, and collaborate across cultures. Whether I’m advising on business projects or welcoming visitors at a global event, I use the tools I gained from my MBA every single day.

When I return to Florida this summer, I’m not entirely sure what’s next. But I do know that whatever path I take, I’m well prepared—because of the foundation the USF Muma College of Business program gave me. If you’re someone who wants to lead in a complex, ever-changing world, and if you’re looking for a way to turn your potential into purpose, I’d encourage you to explore an MBA.

It’s more than a degree. It’s a mindset.

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Sean Schrader is a life-long Floridian, who has been fortunate to serve in numerous roles in government, public policy, and international engagement. Sean enjoys travelling, and collecting model cars. He aspires to attend law school, and serve as a JAG officer in the Air Force.