Scott Anderson is a member of the Texas MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth class of 2010.
What have you have been up to since you finished our program?
Prior to graduation, I transitioned into a Product Management position inside of a large networking company. Shortly after graduation, I was promoted as a leader on a Product Management team that is responsible for over $1B of revenue per annum. As a PM, I have had the opportunity to: renegotiate royalty structure and rate (increasing product flexibility while reducing COGS), develop and execute a product lifecycle plan (delivering more subscription value while reducing sustaining cost AND improving customer satisfaction), and drive multiple strategic product initiatives.
What made you want to get an MBA?
As a software architect, I was empowered to solve a given set of problems. I wanted to broaden the scope of my impact on product direction and asset utilization. I also wanted to improve my career opportunities and position myself for short and long-term growth.
Why did you choose the Texas MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth?
As I examined my top criteria, the Texas MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth was the obvious choice for my MBA.
MBA brand: If I was going to invest the requisite resources into an MBA, I didn’t want to ever regret the brand that is on my diploma. The Texas MBA is an elite brand that is globally valued. Don’t get too caught up into whether this degree costs a bit more than that one. You are only going to do this once.
Flexibility: I needed to be able to continue to work as I am the sole provider for my family.
Networking/Alumni: Dallas/Fort Worth program has a rich mix of amazing talent to share the MBA experience with. Also, having the access to the alumni database can be a great advantage when applying for a job. (Story: I recently got a call from a graduating Evening MBA student who was interviewing at my company for a product management job. I spent some time giving him background, roles, and responsibilities for product managers at my company. He can now prepare how to articulate his knowledge, skills, and experience as it relates to my company’s needs.)
Defined Term: Trying to schedule a part-time MBA around work would be horribly difficult. It would take multiple years to complete. I wanted a program that I knew I could complete in two years. Be aware of opportunity costs! Time is money!
How did your experience in this program impact your life and career?
I was truly amazed at the breadth of impact my MBA has had on my life. Attaining a Texas MBA was a critical, foundational component of my career transition plan. It has also changed the way I view so many things! I tell prospective students to try to be open to the experience. It’s best not to go into the program rigidly trying only to extract X, Y, and Z. It is better to be open, learn, and be changed from the experience.
What have you been doing with your “extra” time now that you aren’t having to spend it studying and in class?
Work and family life has filled in most of the gaps. My girls are into gymnastics and equestrian. I am also noodling on a startup idea…
Anything else you’d like to share?
For prospective students: You know if it is time… do it! You will be stretched (I promise). But it is very doable.
For current students: If you are going to transition jobs, create a solid plan to do so. Some things are out of your control. Do whatever you need to to make it happen! Take on a MBA+ project (or two). Dig deep and come up with a little extra (it can make all the difference!).
