On June 13, Brawnson Adams graduated from the University of Oregon with his MBA. Because Adams came to the University of Oregon with business know-how from previous experience, he chose to apply to the Oregon MBA's accelerated program. In this 9- to 15-month path, Adams was able to efficiently build on his existent experience and gain the valuable skills needed to propel himself into a new career as an entrepreneur. Adams took the time to expand on why the accelerated MBA and a concentration in innovation and entrepreneurship through the Lundquist Center for Entrepreneurship was right for him.
Could you explain your career path, pre- and post-MBA?
Prior to joining the MBA program, I worked as a digital operations coordinator at Local Motion Hawaii. While there, I was responsible for building and managing the company's web presence. My undergraduate degree was in finance, but I quickly learned that I had a bigger passion for marketing and would one day like to start my own business. I had much to learn, but I was looking to keep climbing the ladder to gain a better understanding of marketing.
What motivated you to apply to the accelerated MBA program?
The accelerated program was the most efficient way to gain the MBA edge. I know that my finance background coupled with my digital marketing experience would blend well with what I learned in the MBA program. The accelerated MBA allowed me to keep the momentum rolling.
What was your favorite part of the program?
The experiential learning trips. There is nothing like walking into a startup on a random day and seeing exactly what it's like to be in the middle of the madness. I also made some great connections in San Francisco, California, through the experiential learning trip.
Why did you choose the University of Oregon?
I chose UO because I wanted the flexibility of the accelerated program while being able to take part in what the Warsaw Sports Marketing Center has to offer. I come from the world of performance sports apparel, and the Warsaw Center gave me the opportunity to learn from industry experts.
At the end of the day, I just wanted to be a Duck. The sports, the innovation and entrepreneurship track, the opportunity to experience the Pacific Northwest—all of it made the University of Oregon the ideal choice for me.
What helped you choose the Lundquist Center for Entrepreneurship?
I knew coming into the program that I wanted to someday start my own business and that the Lundquist Center for Entrepreneurship would provide me with the tools and experience to do so.
What aspect of the program has proven most beneficial as you explore career options?
The opportunity to be part of a real startup. I've gained valuable experience and knowledge about starting a business that would be difficult to gain elsewhere.