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Jory Denny (MSM '07) worked for seven years as an executive in AT&T's Integrated Solutions group before enrolling in the SMU Cox Master of Science in Management (MSM) program. Prior to joining AT&T, he earned a BBA in finance at Texas A&M. Denny chose the Cox MSM because it was a relatively short, yet intensive program. He was able to continue working full-time while attending classes in the evenings and on weekends, thus avoiding forgone income. Seven months into the program, Jory was promoted thanks to his experience and advanced education.
Why did you choose to attend the Cox School?
Being a Dallas native, I'm well aware that SMU Cox is a premier university. Although I considered pursuing my graduate education at several competing universities, I knew that SMU Cox would offer me the level and quality of education that I was seeking. The school's ranking, class size, teacher-to-student ratio, and reputation were the most important factors in my decision.
Which courses have you taken that were most helpful in getting you to where you are today, and who were your professors in those courses?
Without question the two classes that have been most helpful have been Dr. Lei's Strategy 6201 class and Professor Kindley's Marketing 6201 class. Each professor requires his students to think creatively and examine opportunities and risks that they normally would not consider. Both professors allowed students to analyze real-world business problems by sharing personal work experiences in the classroom. These classes fostered a "learning by doing" approach, which in my opinion is invaluable.
What were the most important skills you acquired, lessons you learned, and experiences you had in these courses?
The most important tangible skill I've acquired through these courses is the ability to analyze a company from a holistic perspective. Each case I studied required extensive examination. Every one had a unique competitive environment, culture, and goal-set. I learned to make a decision on the business issue at hand after evaluating the data I had gathered. Now, when I'm confronted with a problematic situation at work I apply the tools I learned throughout the program to make effective and sound decisions.
I have also acquired some intangible skills outside the classroom. I've worked in a sales capacity throughout most of my career. At times, sales professionals can stray from the team philosophy. The MSM curriculum taught me the importance of working as a team. Because the program is structured in a manner that demands teamwork, I've learned that a good manager is a good team player.
I also took advantage of the Business Leadership Center (BLC) seminars, where real-world practitioners share their insights on a range of leadership topics, including leadership styles, communications, negotiations, and ethical behavior. Overall, these seminars allowed me to enhance my leadership skills.
What value do you think the Cox network provides to students?
A quote from the Fiske Guide to Colleges comes to mind when I think of the Cox network. The guide states, "SMU is all but the official alma mater of the Dallas business and professional elite." This has certainly proved to be true in my experiences as a student and now as an alumnus.
What are your professional goals?
When I entered the MSM program, my main professional goal was simply to advance my career within AT&T. I knew a degree from the Cox School would not only provide me with the invaluable skills and knowledge base to succeed in my workplace, but that the program itself would instill the business and managerial savvy I sought. Much to my delight, I was promoted seven months into the MSM program. Though the company preferred a candidate with a master's degree, I was awarded the position because of my experience and my status in the program.
What advice would you give to students wishing to succeed in your industry today?
My advice to students wishing to succeed in the telecommunications industry would be simply to "weather the storm." Since 2000, the telecom industry has seen tremendous change from multiple perspectives: technological, political, and societal. As technology evolves, consumer habits change. To succeed in this line of business you must stay up on emerging technology, market trends, and regulatory changes. I work in a dynamic industry, and I'd encourage anyone to join it. The outlook is most definitely positive.
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