Molly Hughes, (PMBA '12)
Q & A
Graduation Year: PMBA 68, Graduate December 2012
Concentration: Finance
Current Job Title: Commercial Analyst, GE Capital
1. Why did you choose to attend the Cox PMBA Program?
I wanted to attend a school that was highly ranked, well regarded and well-connected locally and nationally. Not to mention received a world class education. The professors are the best in their field and the students represent the Dallas business community.
2. What is the best aspect of the PMBA program and how has it helped you?
Hands down the networking has been the best aspect of the PMBA program. I went into the program wanting to move into a completely new field, financial services. I was told this would not be an easy task. Fortunately the classmates that I met have not only become good friends, but valuable networking resources. I sat next to someone at orientation who three weeks later recommended me for an analyst position at GE Capital, which I was offered and happily accepted. This was the exact career move I was looking to make when I decided to pursue an MBA. The most exciting part is how quickly this SMU network was able to work for me and I continue to witness other classmates making the same connections.
3. What aspects of the PMBA program have had the most positive impact on your career?
Apart from the obvious career advancement from networking I would say the curriculum. I have been able to apply an abundance of concepts, skills and knowledge that I’ve learning since enrolling at SMU. I’ve increased productivity and expanding my business knowledge which enables to excel in the workplace.
4. How would you describe the quality of the faculty?
Top notch! Every professor is an expert in their field and that industry expertise translates into a superior academic environment. Not only are they your professor, but they also become a valuable resources for networking and career insights.
5. What has been the biggest advantage of attending the Cox PMBA program?
That ability to receive a great education while maintaining full time employment. So many people put themselves out of the workplace for two plus years and I am so thankful there are part time options that work with my schedule. The diversification of the student body has also been wonderful. There are so many industries represented and that leads to many new and exciting outlooks on classroom topics. I’m always seeing things in a different light.
6. What has been your most memorable experience at Cox?
Mel Fugate’s organization behavior class. This was the first fully interactive course I have taken and the value of total class participation was evident. Staying up all night to complete the final project and going to class the next morning to see the amazing projects presented by the rest of the class.
7. What sets the SMU Cox PMBA program part from other DFW area graduate business schools?
Being able to attend class on a beautiful campus and having a real graduate school experience. You can choose your concentration, take an abundance of elective courses and travel abroad for an international business course. Other programs offer online courses or lock-step programs which take the specialization out of the whole experience. At SMU not only do you become a Pony, you become part of the community.
8. What advice would you give to new grads of the Cox PMBA program?
I haven’t graduated yet, however I would say do not lose touch with the valuable SMU network.
9. What advice would you give to students considering the Cox PMBA program?
SMU delivers a world class education alongside an incredible graduate school experience including a lifetime network that simply is not offered elsewhere in the region. If you don’t believe me, come on a classroom visit and see for yourself!
