Emma Galvin ’22 MBA

Emma Galvin knew she wanted to pursue her MBA at Bryant University. What she didn’t know was how that experience would open doors and lead her to a new career path. Read more about her experience in the Two-Year MBA program. 

Why did you continue your education at Bryant University? 

From the time I was 19 years old I said, “I want to get my MBA from Bryant University.” I stuck to that promise to myself. The Two-Year MBA program was the right fit for me because I was working full time, and I did not want to step back from that. I had worked at Pinkberry for about 10 years and had made my way up in the company to director of operations. It was the best choice for me because I still wanted to progress in my company while also furthering my education. I had a business background, but I really wanted an in-depth knowledge of all areas of business — supply chain, finance, accounting, marketing. Bryant absolutely accomplished that. I feel so much more confident about myself in the business world. 

What really drew me was the small class sizes and the focus on teamwork. Not only is Bryant world-renowned for being a fantastic business school, but there’s that small-school feel. I really appreciated that because it leads to very personal connections with your cohort and professors, and I was looking for that personal feel.

What are a few highlights of your Bryant experience? 

My very first semester, Professor Mike Roberto taught a strategic management course, and he solidified that I was in the right place. He made every student feel like they had potential, that they had something to offer, and he was so engaging. I walked in genuinely excited at the start of every class. He was fantastic. I still speak with many of my professors to this day. 

One main thing I got out of the program was the teamwork. Even though it was challenging in the moment, it was such an important piece. Not only did it teach me how to work with a team and different personalities, which is very relevant in the real world, but it also taught me my strengths and allowed me to work on my weaknesses.

How has your Bryant degree impacted your career?

I decided to move into digital marketing because I really enjoyed my marketing class, and I was able to recognize my strengths. One of my strengths was creativity, and I wanted to use that in my career. My other strengths are my organizational skills and my communication skills, and that has really helped me out in my career. I don’t think I would have known that those were my true strengths if not for the MBA program. 

The MBA gave me flexibility because I knew I would have multiple options. I wasn’t pigeonholing myself. An MBA is really the opposite — it’s opening yourself up. I’m really enjoying my new career, but I know that in the future I could make another pivot, and my education will allow me to do that.

Why would you recommend investing in Bryant?

As a woman in business, I was a bit nervous going into the MBA program. I thought, “How am I going to be looked at? How am I going to be received?” And I was taken seriously at Bryant. That was such a breath of fresh air to me. I was received with respect, and I’m forever grateful for that. Everyone at Bryant — the faculty, staff, and students — are all a great resource for me, and they will be forever. I will absolutely utilize the connections at Bryant University.