Student Profile: Michael Arendt |
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As the Business Manager of Technology for the world leader in aluminum rolled products, I oversee the development and implementation of valuation of R&D projects within the technology organization. This includes defining and implementing metrics to measure R&D's performance as well as implementing tracking tools. I am constantly searching for ways to improve our processes in order to maximize value and make sure we maintain a competitive advantage.
Continued education gives me an opportunity to sharpen my skills and expand my theoretical knowledge to integrate with my practical experience. Besides, I really enjoy and value learning. I received an MBA through a distance learning program from the University of Wales, but I wanted additional advanced degrees.
Due to the demands placed on my time at work and at home, I needed a flexible schedule in order to study again. Since I travel frequently for work, I also required a program where I could study at my own pace no matter where I was - at home, in a hotel or even at the airport waiting for a connecting flight. I never could have afforded to quit my job for a year or two in order to study again nor could I have attended evening classes due to my job responsibilities. Kelley Direct offered the best solution so I enrolled in the global supply chain management certificate program. I was so impressed with the faculty that I decided to pursue a Master of Science degree in Global Supply Chain Management.
My experience as a graduate student has been both challenging and rewarding.
Although Kelley Direct's online format offers flexibility, the program is very demanding and time intensive. It is not easy to balance work, family and studying. It requires self-motivation, discipline, determination and hard work to succeed. Students must be willing to invest time and energy. It's definitely worth the investment.
I have benefited greatly from the direct relevance of the curriculum. The program is practically orientated, and therefore does not take a stretch of the mind to be able to apply the theoretical learning to your daily job. The program is also multi-disciplinary and touches on aspects of operations, marketing, finance and supply chain. Courses have enhanced my understanding of the interactions between those areas. As a result, I am even better equipped to interact with different departments in our company because I understand the drivers to make better decisions.
The exchange between colleagues and friends is also worthwhile. Teammates help motivate and hold you accountable. They also enhance the learning process.
It has been very satisfying to earn a degree from an internationally recognized institution while balancing work and family commitments at the same time. Without a doubt I would recommend Kelley Direct.
