We pioneered online learning in 1999 and continue to innovate our top-ranked online MBA program to meet the needs of professionals who want to advance their careers. Hear from students in the incoming cohort as they share why they chose to pursue a Master of Business Administration online with Kelley Direct
Omar Padilla
Senior Program Manager with Strategy and Payments AMERICAS-ASIA, Microsoft
Redmond, WA
Pursuing an online MBA degree to prepare for strategic roles and make an impact
With a 16-year career at Microsoft in financial planning analysis and business program management, Omar Padilla sought an MBA to take on more strategic roles to make a business and community impact.
“I chose Kelley Direct because of its flexibility and the strong endorsements from colleagues who had great experiences. A previous manager, who had a positive experience at Indiana University, influenced my decision, and the program’s reputation and rankings spoke for themselves. I also appreciated Kelley Direct’s clear and transparent expectations, which gave me confidence in my ability to balance the program with my career.
“After completing a degree in IT and management, I saw an MBA as the ideal path to bridge my expertise in finance and IT with strategic leadership skills. While I considered other advanced programs, the advice from mentors at Microsoft guided me toward an online MBA for the flexibility it offered to keep advancing my career while gaining new skills. Kelley Direct’s emphasis on leadership and innovation was exactly what I needed to take that next step.
“I’m most looking forward to the real-world case interactions and learning from high-seniority professors, whose insights will be invaluable. The diversity of backgrounds in the program excites me, as it’s a unique opportunity to engage with talented individuals from various industries. These interactions will be essential for my professional growth, expanding my perspective and sharpening my skills alongside such accomplished peers.”
Elizabeth Davis
Life Actuary, USAA
Austin, TX
Weighs several online MBA options and finds Kelley Direct at the top of the list
Elizabeth Davis is pursuing an MBA to gain a more well-rounded business education, seeking a broader perspective to lead effectively and drive strategic impact when making critical decisions in the insurance industry.
“An MBA was always part of my plan. Other master’s programs just didn’t offer the same value, especially given my extensive background in rigorous math studies from the credentialing process. I’ve always loved learning, and pursuing an MBA felt like the natural next step after completing my actuarial credentials.
“I applied to about six programs, but Kelley was always at the top of my list because of its reputation, long-standing presence, and the recognizable name it brings—especially compared to for-profit colleges. Receiving a scholarship from Kelley Direct was also a major factor, and it sealed the deal for me, leading me to accept before even hearing back from the other schools.
“I was pleasantly surprised by the hands-on and personal touchpoints throughout the admissions process at Kelley, including my interview and the communication with Abigail (the associate director of enrollment management). The application process was much faster than other programs, which was a major advantage for a working professional. This efficiency made it an easy choice to accept Kelley’s offer before hearing back from other schools.”
Kat Goessl
Senior Lead Revenue Enablement Manager, Lumen Technologies
Denver, CO
Kelley Direct offered the flexible online MBA option that fit her goals
Kat Goessl has had a career at Lumen Technologies for the last 10 years, working across sales, marketing, and sales enablement roles. She chose to pursue an MBA to deepen her financial acumen and her understanding of operations and human resources.
“The timing for my MBA journey was shaped by my husband’s military service and raising two children. Now feels like the perfect time to re-establish my personal identity and invest in my own growth after dedicating years to military and family responsibilities.
“I initially looked at the University of Michigan Ross, but my conversation with a Kelley Direct student ambassador really solidified my decision. They were incredibly supportive and inclusive, and it made a big difference in my impression of the program. Combined with Kelley’s flexibility and the opportunity for global immersion, it felt like the perfect fit for my goals.”
Samuel Gorton
Treasury Director, Bridgestone Americas, Inc.
Nashville, TN
Choosing to specialize in finance in a top-ranked online MBA program
With a master’s degree in accounting and several years of experience in treasury, Samuel Gordon was drawn to an MBA to specialize in Finance and expand into advanced roles.
“I’ve been considering an MBA for about five years, finally deciding to take the plunge in the past year. With a passion for learning and continuous development—and a collection of certifications along with my CPA—an MBA felt like the ideal way to gain exposure beyond my current expertise and broaden my perspective.
“I initially considered Michigan State, but Indiana University’s brand recognition and the option to concentrate on finance ultimately won me over. Indiana’s prestigious reputation within the Big Ten and the Kelley School’s comprehensive online program assured me I’d be receiving a high-quality education.”