What it’s like to be a Business major

I am not a traditional business student. When I first transferred to PLU in the Fall of ‘23, my intention was to graduate with a Political Science degree. I genuinely had no plans to pursue a Business degree, as I didn’t know how it would help me in my future. However, after taking a prerequisite course – Business 201, taught by Professor Ralph Flick – this all changed. Business 201 was an intro course, but thanks to the engaging material and the insight of Professor Flick, I realized that a degree in Business wasn’t just a piece of paper. The degree itself has come to be a toolkit for my interpretation of the game of life. The skills I’ve learnt to this point (seven business courses later) have given me a toolkit on how to take on challenges, whether it be starting my own company, climbing the corporate ladder, or having a strong understanding of how the wheels turn in the world.

I’ve had unique opportunities like the Consultative Engagements course led by David Sherve, which provided a hands-on experience in interacting with some of the most successful people in the tech industry, helped me understand the keys to professional sales, and most importantly taught me how to ask important questions, a skill that goes beyond business and into life itself. Other experiences like earning certificates through the marketing courses have also helped me to build on my resume.

When I get questioned by incoming students about what sets PLU apart, the first thing that always comes to mind is the personalized attention and mentorship from the professors. They’re willing to go above and beyond in the journey of every student’s success. My professors have allowed and challenged me to analyze and think critically about the decisions being made around me and how they impact the world. Beyond this, faculty from the business department create networking opportunities for business students across many industries. Through this, I have been able to apply what we learn in class to the real world with confidence and adaptability.