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Jessie Mitsdarfer and Garth Reynolds were among students in the first graduating class of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Business’s 100 percent online MBA program on December 14. 

Mitsdarfer, a cash receipts specialist for the University of Illinois Foundation, chose SIUE’s 100 percent online MBA program because of the convenience. “Its short nature did not hinder my education and allowed me to maintain my routine,” she said. “With a full-time job and a young family, I liked that the commitment could be done in a year, but that I was still able to acquire all of the skills that are offered in a two-year program.” 

Reynolds, the executive director of the Illinois Pharmacists Association (IPhA), selected the online program because it suited his needs. “It met my requirements of working with a hectic work schedule,” he said. “It is also a quality, recognized program that is affordable.” 

Mitsdarfer points to her experiences with faculty as the high point of her time in the MBA program. “The professors were always open to working within my availability, which benefited my learning,” she explained. 

Reynolds noted that all his professors were responsive to the online students and worked to make the experience interactive, rewarding and supportive. He was also appreciative of the outreach from the admissions office to ensure that everything was going well throughout the program. 

Mitsdarfer feels the MBA program has taught her skills she can directly apply to her current leadership role. “The MBA program has helped me to think more globally,” she said, “and it has aided me in the expansion of my business network.” 

Reynolds felt that the program helped hone his already strong managerial mindset and skill set. 

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SIUE School of Business’s 100 percent online MBA program graduates its first class.