Q&A: Tamaris C. on the Transformative Value of the Çàɬֱ²¥ Cox Experienced Professional Online MBA

Q: What inspired you to pursue an MBA, and why now? 

I have to admit, I never thought I’d pursue an MBA. My undergraduate degree is a B.B.A. in Finance from the University of Texas at Arlington, and for a long time, I was adamant about not going back for more school. But in 2018, I decided to take a leap of faith and started my own consulting business. That experience was eye-opening—I quickly realized how much I didn’t know about running a business across all its facets. That’s when I recognized the value an MBA could bring, not just for knowledge, but for the confidence to lead and grow, whether as an entrepreneur or in a corporate setting. 

Q: Why did you choose the Çàɬֱ²¥ Cox Online MBA program over other options? 

I grew up in Dallas and always heard great things about Çàɬֱ²¥ Cox, especially from colleagues at my first corporate job who were alumni and spoke highly of the program. Çàɬֱ²¥ Cox offered the flexibility I required and the reputation I trusted. I did consider other schools, but Çàɬֱ²¥ Cox was the clear winner for me. 

Q: How has your experience been as a working professional in the Çàɬֱ²¥ Cox Online MBA? 

Honestly, it was the best decision I’ve ever made. While there were ups and downs, the journey was incredibly rewarding. Despite being an online program, the cohort was extremely close-knit—we stay in touch, support each other and celebrate each other’s wins. The networking has been outstanding, and the sense of community is strong, even across different cities and states. 

Q: Can you share a specific example of how the program impacted your career? 

Absolutely. I came into the program hoping to gain more confidence, and I got that almost immediately. After just my first semester, I was able to transition into a completely different role—something I didn’t expect to happen until after graduation. With the help of the Career Management Center and supportive faculty, I made another major career move, this time into the renewable energy sector, which wasn’t even on my radar before the MBA. The career support, resume help and interview preparation were invaluable, and I credit the program for opening these doors. 

Q: What role did the Çàɬֱ²¥ Cox faculty and support staff play in your journey? 

The faculty and staff were phenomenal. Early on, Dr. Strand’s Managing and Leading People class pushed me to reflect on my strengths and leadership style, which was transformative. Professors who taught entrepreneurial opportunities provided real-world, practical lessons—like building a mobile app and pitching to investors—that immediately applied in my career. The support coaches and career advisors, from the Career Management Center, were always there to guide me, whether it was prepping for a conference or negotiating a job offer. 

Q: How did experiential learning and networking opportunities at Cox benefit you? 

The program offers outstanding experiential learning opportunities that broadened my business perspective and deepened my connections with classmates. Networking at conferences, supported by Çàɬֱ²¥ Cox staff, led directly to new career opportunities for me. The alumni and faculty network is active and genuinely invested in students’ success, and people are always willing to pick up the phone or help out. 

Q: What would you say to someone considering the Çàɬֱ²¥ Cox MBA? 

I’ve already recommended it to colleagues. Çàɬֱ²¥ Cox is uniquely positioned in Dallas, a thriving business hub, and offers genuine connections, robust career support and a community where people know your name. Whether you want to start a business, switch industries, or accelerate your career, the resources, faculty and network at Çàɬֱ²¥ Cox will help you get there. 

Q: Any final thoughts on the Çàɬֱ²¥ Cox MBA experience? 

The support is real, the opportunities are abundant and the impact is immediate. I’m grateful for every step of this journey. 

Interview summarized via Perplexity.AI for clarity and brevity.