Stacy Atkinson

"The most rewarding aspects of my job is having the ability to make executive decisions, travel around the world and meet people from all walks of life, and importantly, my direct reports respect my leadership and allow me to be part of their team.”

Why did you choose CUNY SPS?

I graduated from Lehman College in January of 2015 with my BBA, was looking to continuing on to my master’s and wanted to stay within the CUNY system. One of my classmates from Lehman recommended Baruch and CUNY School of Professional Studies. I selected CUNY School of Professional Studies because it was completely online and allowed me to balance my professional, personal, and school life.

What most appealed to you about your CUNY SPS degree program?

The complete online program, and the ability to attend graduation in NYC.

How did you find your online/classroom interaction with other students?  With faculty?

Interacting with students and faculty was delightful, although at times it was difficult to coordinate meeting times with other students on group projects.

What were some of the most defining aspects of your time at CUNY SPS?

The ability to raise my family, maintain a full-time job that required a lot of travel, and still graduate with a 3.83 GPA. Maintaining positive teacher-student online interactions. The ability to meet deadlines for assignments and projects.

What is the most important thing you learned at CUNY SPS?

The leadership classes provided the most important tools for me. They helped me to better understand my role as a leader both professionally and personally.

How has your CUNY SPS degree influenced your current job, and your career overall?

The Master of Science in Business Management and Leadership degree program gave me the opportunity to be promoted from senior project manager to associate director of CME Marketing.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?

The most rewarding aspect of my job is having the ability to make executive decisions, travel around the world and meet people from all walks of life, and importantly, my direct reports respect my leadership and allow me to be part of their team. Understanding that we work together as a unit for one common goal has helped me in my role.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

In five years, I see myself being promoted to the director of CME in my current organization, or moving to another company in a more senior level position.

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