"A few months prior to graduation, I received a job offer. Six months after that, I was once again promoted, and I definitely know that my CBU master's degree enabled me to be a highly competitive applicant."
Quick Facts
Programs: Leadership and Organizational Studies, MA
Graduation Years: 2018
Hometown: Mentone, CA
Current City: Mentone, CA
Current Job Title: Senior Planner, MNS Engineers
Life at CBU
Why did you choose your major or graduate degree program? What interested you in this
particular field of study?
I wanted to grow as leader and increase my knowledge of premier leadership management
practices and principles.
What did you like about being in this program at CBU?
It was a perfect alignment of leadership curriculum with a faith-based perspective.
What did you think about your professors?
I appreciated the subject-matter expertise of my professors and their ability to make
topics relevant to current times. They blended faith with leadership principles in
a way that truly resonated. All my professors were approachable, maintained high standards
of excellence, and required that I, as a student, do the same.
How did you grow (spiritually, socially, educationally) while in this program at CBU?
I grew educationally and gained a foundation which I continue to build upon. I grew
socially by forming connections within my cohort which continue until today. I have
grown spiritually as I continue to discover ways in which I can blend my faith with
servant-leadership principles. I am even considering PhD studies that incorporate
ministry and leadership.
Did your program help you figure out your purpose?
The program definitely enabled me to confidently seek ways in which I can walk in
my purpose. I applied and was hired for positions with increased responsibilities.
I have embraced servant-leadership principles and am often reminded to courageously
blend faith in professional settings.
Life after CBU
What have you done since graduating?
A few months prior to graduation, I received a job offer. Six months after that, I
was once again promoted, and I definitely know that my CBU master's degree enabled
me to be a highly competitive applicant. I went on to publish my first book of poetry
and am in the process of writing two more books as well as co-authoring a book of
prayers. I have also expanded my writing to include spoken-word performances. In addition,
I serve as an elected officer within an organization that serves all of Riverside
County.
What are your current job duties?
As a senior planner, I coordinate and support complex planning projects and multi-agency
jurisdictional efforts. I participate in the development and maintenance of jurisdictions'
consolidated plans and coordinate studies, prepare housing compliance related documents,
serve as technical consultant and advisor to clients, facilitate meetings and presentations,
design and conduct research, drive thought leadership, monitor affordable housing
projects, and conduct community engagement activities.
How has your program and time at CBU prepared you for your life and career after college?
Without my CBU education, I would not have been able to apply for or be qualified
to assume my current roles.
Is there anything you learned at CBU that you still use in your professional life
today?
I still refer to leadership curriculum, and I continue to connect with CBU faculty
as a resource.
How are you making a difference in the world? How are you living your purpose?
I am living my purpose through servant leadership on my job, with my family and within
community organizations.
What are your future goals and plans?
I shall expand my ministry through writing, speaking within multiple forums, and I
shall strive earnestly to be a light.
Would you recommend CBU to others?
Definitely!