Fily Vidrio

Baylor University, Hankamer School of Business

“I am a servant leader driven by faith and a commitment to making a lasting impact on my community.”

Age: 39

Hometown: Corpus Christi, Texas

Fun fact about yourself: As a hobby, I have competed in and won several amateur bodybuilding competitions. It’s taught me discipline, perseverance, and the value of striving for excellence.

Undergraduate School and Degree: University of the Incarnate Word – Bachelor of Science in Biology

Where are you currently working? Business Development Manager for HomeWell Care Services of New Braunfels.

What achievement are you most proud of in your professional career? I’m most proud of establishing strong relationships with case managers and social workers, which has allowed me to connect veterans in need with additional home support. Through these partnerships, I’ve been able to help veterans navigate complex systems to access benefits, ultimately easing their burdens and improving their quality of life. As a veteran myself, this work holds deep personal meaning and reflects my commitment to serving my community through compassion and practical solutions.

Why did you choose this school’s online MBA program? I chose Baylor’s Online MBA program because it offered the flexibility that I needed to balance my career and community commitments while pursuing academic excellence. Learning from professors who are industry professionals brought real-world scenarios into the classroom, making the experience incredibly relevant. Additionally, the diversity in my cohort allowed me to collaborate with individuals from different industries, enriching my perspective and making the learning environment even more dynamic and engaging.

What was your favorite part of being in an online MBA program? My favorite part of the Baylor Online MBA program is the professors’ understanding of the unique needs of working professionals. They recognize that most students require a more independent and flexible approach to learning, rather than a traditional classroom setting.

How did your online experience compare with your in-the-classroom experience as an undergraduate student? My undergraduate experience was highly lecture-driven, which often made it intimidating to ask questions or engage actively during class time. In contrast, the Baylor Online MBA program embraces a more reverse learning structure. Instead of relying solely on lectures, we read the material independently beforehand and come prepared to ask questions and discuss during video office hours. This approach fostered a more interactive and collaborative learning environment, empowering me to engage confidently and deepen my understanding of the coursework.

How has your online education helped you in your current job?

My Baylor MBA in Executive Communication has been instrumental in helping me leverage professional relationships to expand my network. The skills I gained, such as strategic communication and relationship-building, have allowed me to forge meaningful connections, foster collaboration, and create opportunities for growth. This ability to effectively engage with others has been key to driving success in my role.

Did you earn a promotion while in the program or immediately after graduation? I was privileged to be offered a promotion to my current position while nearing the end of my MBA program. This opportunity was a testament to the skills and insights I gained throughout the program, as well as the alignment of my values with those of the company. I am truly grateful and honored to work for an organization that shares my commitment to integrity, service, and making a meaningful impact.

Why did you pursue an online MBA program instead of a full-time residential or executive MBA program? I always knew that Baylor University was my school of choice because of its rich culture and high standards. However, participating in their residential MBA program wasn’t feasible due to my responsibilities and location. I am truly grateful that Baylor offered an online option that perfectly fit my needs, allowing me to pursue my education while honoring my commitments.

What is one way that your business school has integrated AI into your programming? What insights did you gain from using AI? Baylor’s online MBA emphasized not only the practical applications of AI, but also the importance of understanding the broader AI movement. We were taught to remain resilient and adaptable as industries evolve with the implementation of AI technologies. This perspective underscored the need to embrace change and continually develop new skills to stay relevant and effective in an AI-driven world. It was a valuable lesson in balancing innovation with human adaptability.

Number of Hours Per Week Spent on an Online MBA: 20-30 hours per week committed to reading relevant business articles, completing class assignments, and attending weekly office hours.

What is your ultimate long-term professional goal? My ultimate long-term professional goal is to earn a PhD or Doctorate and use my expertise to lead a non-profit organization dedicated to advocating for veterans. The organization’s mission would focus on empowering veterans by providing educational resources and guidance on how to become entrepreneurs. Through this, I hope to create opportunities for veterans to leverage their unique skills and experiences while fostering economic growth and personal fulfillment.

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