Student Ambassador Spotlight: Joe Sheahan, MBA 2012

Joe Sheahan
MBA Candidate 2012
Full-time student

• Concentration(s): Entrepreneurship, Finance
• Industry/ Field of work: Previously in the foodservice/hospitality industry
• Undergraduate degree in: Economics
• Undergraduate School: University of Wisconsin – Madison
• Career Goal: Start my own business(es)
• Organizations involved with: GFIN (Communications & Marketing Chair), MBAA, PdEI, Toastmasters
• Linkedin Profile

What prompted you to return to school to achieve your MBA?
Feeling stagnant in previous career, looking for an opportunity to grow

What was the most important factor for you in choosing an MBA program (or factors you considered)?
Reputation of University, concentration options, cost, location

Why did you choose UIC Liautaud for your MBA?
Major research university, cost effective, concentrations that I wanted, location in Chicago

We all know that people pursue the MBA to increase their business knowledge, but since you have started the program, what has been the most unexpected gain the MBA has given you?
The networking and friendships made with fellow students, professors, and others I have met through the UIC has been a huge advantage.

The UIC Liautaud MBA professors are continuously involved in researching new business trends and innovations. How have you felt the professors have been able to integrate their theoretical knowledge into practical applications? Do you have any examples?
Many professors have been able to share real world work experiences that they have had and continue to do. UIC professors are often sought out by industry professionals for contracted work and/or consulting; some even have full time jobs and teach on the side.

Which class/professor has been your favorite thus far and why?
Corporate Strategy with Professor Shanley. Being one of my first classes here at UIC, I was really impressed with the knowledge and insight that he was able to give in the case studies of very tangible companies.

What is your favorite aspect of the UIC campus and why?
It is very close to downtown yet has a traditional college campus feel.

How would you define the Liautaud student?
Hard working, down to earth, innovative, unpretentious

What advice would you provide to incoming UIC Liautaud MBA students?
Get involved with the University early on in your educational career. You can either choose to just show up to class and leave, or you can easily find paths to get involved in ways that will add to your education and your personal and professional lives. The choice is yours!

To meet with a Student Ambassador or schedule a class visit, click here to send your request to our Admissions team.