Terrence Bunkley

The University of Texas at Dallas, Jindal School of Management

“Driven tech leader, father, husband, dedicated to transforming lives through servant leadership and innovation.”

Age: 37

Hometown: Fort Worth, Texas

Fun fact about yourself: I have a minor planet named after me: Terbunkley.

Undergraduate School and Degree: University of North Texas – BS in Computer Engineering

Where are you currently working? Microsoft – Senior Software Engineer

What achievement are you most proud of in your professional career? Mentorship has been one of the most fulfilling parts of my career. I’ve guided over 15 individuals through career shifts, internships, and breaking into tech—and watching them thrive has been nothing short of incredible. Helping others unlock their potential reminds me why I love what I do and inspires me to lead with purpose.

Why did you choose this school’s online MBA program? I needed a program that fit my life—a full-time job meant remote flexibility was a must. I also wanted excellence, so a top-ranked school was non-negotiable. Most importantly, I craved a community that champions diversity, where different perspectives ignite innovation. And the bonus? It wouldn’t break the bank. UT Dallas not only checked every box, but it also gave me more than I imagined—world-class education, lifelong connections, and a renewed sense of purpose.

What was your favorite part of being in an online MBA program? It’s tough to pick just one. The flexibility was a game-changer—I could juggle work, life, and learning without sacrificing quality. What really surprised me was how connected I felt. UT Dallas went above and beyond to include online students in activities and opportunities, including a life-changing trip to Sweden to explore sustainability in business. That experience broadened my global perspective and reinforced why I’m excited about leading in a world that demands both innovation and empathy.

How did your online experience compare with your in-the-classroom experience as an undergraduate student? The online format gave me a new level of control over how I learned. I could pause, rewind, and revisit lectures on the go. Also, I could ask professors pinpointed questions with timestamps on lectures to get clarifications. I did miss some of the in-person energy, but UT Dallas filled the gap with meaningful virtual events and community engagement.

What is your best piece of advice to an applicant for thriving in an online MBA program? Jump in early and make time every week—consistency is key. UT Dallas offers so many virtual clubs and networking events, and they’re an amazing way to meet passionate, driven people. And don’t wait until the weekend to catch up—some courses deserve deep focus and mid-week commitment. The more you put in, the more you’ll grow—not just as a student, but as a future leader.

How has your online education helped you in your current job? This program transformed how I think and lead. I went from being a solid software engineer to someone who bridges the gap between code and company vision. I now confidently communicate with executives, align teams, and lead initiatives with purpose. It gave me the language of business and the confidence to use it. That shift has unlocked new leadership opportunities and deepened my impact.

Did you earn a promotion while in the program or immediately after graduation? I was promoted to Senior Software Engineer at Microsoft while in the program—and more importantly, promoted to “Father” in March 2023. Welcoming my daughter Bree has added new meaning to everything I do, and UT Dallas gave me the flexibility to pursue big goals while being present for the most important ones.

Why did you pursue an online MBA program instead of a full-time residential or executive MBA program? With financial responsibilities, a full-time MBA wasn’t realistic. The Executive MBA wasn’t the right fit either—I wanted a flexible, high-impact experience where I could apply what I learned in real time.

What is one way that your business school has integrated AI into your programming? What insights did you gain from using AI? One of the coolest innovations was using AI to analyze our presentation speeches. Getting real-time feedback on tone, pace, and clarity helped me grow fast as a communicator. I learned that when I’m unsure, I rush—and now I have tools to stay grounded and deliver with confidence. It’s a skill that’s already changing the way I lead.

Number of Hours Per Week Spent on an Online MBA: About 2 – 4 hours per week per course.

What is your ultimate long-term professional goal? I’m driven to lead technical teams that build software with real-world impact—solutions that do not just solve problems but make the world better. I believe in the power of technology to serve people, and I want to be at the forefront, where leadership, empathy, and innovation intersect.

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