Cary Tyler’s career path did not immediately point him in the direction of an online MBA program. Tyler originally started at Boise State University taking classes for a master’s degree in educational technology. As Tyler changed his career plans, he knew an MBA would help him reach his goals and position him for success.
“Rigorous enough to challenge me”
Tyler’s switch from secondary education wasn’t the first time he redirected his career path. He initially worked in journalism, so he knew the hard work he would need to put in to change careers for the second time.
After realizing that classroom teaching and school administration weren’t as fulfilling as he wanted, Tyler decided to pursue Boise State’s online MBA program. Tyler said the program “seemed rigorous enough to challenge me and also gave me something to show employers as I transitioned out of education.”
The online MBA program helped Tyler build on leadership skills he developed in secondary education and also provided him with applicable skills that he would need as he started his journey onto a new career path.
Online Learning: The Right Fit
Although Tyler grew up and met his wife, Jeannea, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Tyler and his family currently live in Vancouver, Washington.
Pursuing higher education can be difficult as a father, husband, and full-time employee. Online programs are a great option for students like Tyler. “I did not have time with my schedule to drive to a brick-and-mortar,” said Tyler. He also expressed that although the coursework and deadlines were similar for on-campus and online programs, for his lifestyle, “it was easier to do them via an online approach.”
Supportive Program Faculty and Staff
Looking back at his time at Boise State, Tyler recalls the relationships he developed with faculty, particularly Tom Old, his professor for BUSMBA 540 Managing Successful Projects. Tyler says that Old “took thirty minutes to talk with me about the project management field and suggested I join the local PMI chapter.”
Project management was something that Tyler had not initially considered when starting his online MBA program. However, this ultimately led him to the career he has now. It even inspired his daughter to follow a similar career path. Tyler says some of the biggest highlights of attending Boise State include “quality instruction, focus on real-life learning and skills and access to a quality university online.”
Advice for Future Students in the Online MBA Program
Tyler believes online learning is a great option for students. Many people in today’s society are working remotely, and Tyler States that “the dedication needed to be a remote worker was born out of taking online classes.”
Tyler’s best advice for students who are looking to pursue an online degree is to stay organized and manage your time well. It’s very important to stay on or even ahead of schedule because procrastination can definitely hurt your grades. Tyler brings up the importance of still taking time for yourself. “Be sure to take time with family and your personal life,” expressed Tyler. “Make that a priority.”
Set for Success in a New Career
Cary Tyler graduated from Boise State with his Master of Business Administration in August 2022. Tyler is the first to graduate from college and get a master’s degree in his immediate family. He has set an example of academic success for his three children and two grandchildren.
Thanks to the support team in the online MBA program at Boise State, Tyler now has a successful career with Dragonfly Specialists as a project manager. His degree paired with hard work helped Tyler to make the shift in his career that he was looking for. The skills and learning experience that Tyler gained from the online MBA program will continue to be applicable throughout his career.
Learn More About the Online MBA Program
Boise State’s online Master of Business Administration (MBA) program. is built on innovation – allowing you to advance your career, credibility and confidence in a flexible online format.
The MBA student success team is available to answer your questions or help you get started.