Nick Neill-Jones, MBA '15, came to the University of Oregon with a BS in business administration from Portland State University (PSU). It was for this reason that when considering the Oregon MBA, he decided to take the accelerated route through the program. Neill-Jones, now a financial analyst at Intel, sat down with us to explain why the accelerated MBA was the right choice for him.
Could you explain your career path, pre- and post- MBA?
I started my career in the military. I spent eight years in the U.S. Army; six of those years were in active duty, stationed in Germany. The other two were back home in the Portland area, serving in the Army Reserves. While in the reserves, I obtained my bachelor of science in business administration from Portland State University, where I double-majored in human resources and management and leadership.
I accepted an internship from IBM during my final term at PSU. After the completion of the internship and my undergrad program, I was offered a temporary position at IBM. When that temporary position came to an end, I was offered a permanent job but declined in favor of continuing my education at the University of Oregon.
The career resource center at UO connected me with Intel recruiters for an interview. The interview went well, and I was extended an offer. I started working for Intel as soon as I graduated, and I have been here ever since. I currently work on the manufacturing analytics team, where we forecast the spending and headcount for all of Intel's chip manufacturing.
What motivated you to apply to the accelerated MBA program?
I chose the accelerated MBA because I already had work experience and an undergrad degree in business. The standard two-year program is designed to mirror some of the experience that I had already obtained in life and included classes that I had already taken at PSU. The accelerated program looked like the perfect solution, promising to fill in the skill gaps I had, providing exposure to businesses and high-level executives, and giving me the opportunity to participate in interesting extracurricular activities of my choosing.
What was your favorite part of the program?
The program size affords students a level of personal attention and access that other MBA programs can't manage. The opportunity to visit international businesses and speak with high-level executives is much more limited at other institutions. At UO, on the other hand, students are almost guaranteed a seat at the table.
Why did you choose the University of Oregon?
As a born and raised Oregonian, the University of Oregon was always on my radar. I'm proud to have attended this university.
What helped you choose the Cameron Center for Finance and Securities Analysis?
I had already chosen my field before applying to the university. The fact that the program director for the Cameron Center for Finance and Securities Analysis was extremely helpful and easy to get along with only reinforced my decision.
What aspect of the program has proven most beneficial as you explore career options?
In my opinion, the greatest benefit is the access to experienced and successful business executives. I was able to call on them for advice when accepting Intel's job offer and afterwards as questions arose.