From career prospects to affordability, many factors go into choosing an MBA that is right for you. For Anthony DeOrsey, it was the flexibility and global network offered by the Michigan Ross Online MBA.
The Stephen M Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan is one of the best-ranked business schools in the US to offer an online MBA program.
Michigan Ross Online MBA students benefit from a rigorous, action-based curriculum delivered via a combination of live online sessions and self-paced modules, and are taught by the school's renowned faculty.
Anthony, who currently works for a cleantech research and consulting firm, joined the MBA program with a Master’s in Sustainability from Harvard Extension School and seven years of work experience in consulting and venture capital.
Business Because spoke to Anthony (pictured below) to find out more about his experience as a Michigan Ross Online MBA student.
Why did you decide to pursue an online MBA?
I applied to multiple program formats: full-time, part-time in-person, and part-time hybrid. When it came time to decide, my wife and I had just learned she was pregnant with our first child, and we wanted to stay local, near my family. Additionally, I was interviewing for jobs that seemed especially interesting and were likely to be a good step forward in pursuing my career goals, so I hoped to keep working during an MBA.
Why the Michigan Ross Online MBA?
Joining an MBA was not a box-checking exercise for me, and I wanted to study under the best professors and build a network that would last. I was accepted to some good part-time in-person programs near me, but Ross ultimately offered a more nationwide (and global) network. A significant selling point was the live class sessions that mirror a full-time, in-person experience.
What does Michigan Ross look for in its MBA applicants?
It's clear that Ross has made an effort to bring in students from a multitude of backgrounds. This enhances class discussions, and makes our live class sessions engaging and challenging.
What questions did Michigan Ross ask you in your MBA interview?
I remember discussing the career trajectory that I was aiming for: what my goals were, where I stood vis-a-vis those goals at the time of the interview, how previous work and study experience supported those goals, and how I would leverage a Ross education to get there.
What stands out from your Michigan Ross Online MBA experience so far?
The Multidisciplinary Action Projects (MAP) course was a great experience. This was an opportunity to utilize the material in the program up to that point and work on a problem with real business implications for a large company or organization.
Perhaps the most rewarding part of MAP was the experience of working with a team of Ross MBA candidates with highly diverse skill sets. My team included a doctor, a geneticist, a Googler, a Navy pilot, and an e-commerce manager. Working with this team in a flat structure (with no formal manager to direct the project) brought a vibrant set of perspectives to the project and, I believe, benefited the client immensely.
How have you benefited from the Michigan Ross Online MBA?
Perhaps the most beneficial aspect of a part-time MBA is the opportunity to implement learnings into everyday work immediately. Personally, the coursework in microeconomics, corporate strategy, and competing in the global business environment have been the most impactful. They have allowed me to identify market dynamics and think more clearly about research and consulting analyses at work.
Additionally, I have taken coursework in corporate financial reporting and managing the Online MBA fund (a series of courses that involve buying stocks for the fund and managing the portfolio). These have helped me better understand how to deconstruct complexities in public companies and identify drivers and challenges of sustainability in these companies.
The experience of getting highly diverse perspectives in case studies and group projects has been enriching in building familiarity around industries and roles in which I have never directly worked. Organic learning in this program is a critically important benefit.
How will the Michigan Ross Online MBA help you achieve your career goals?
My goal is to stay in cleantech and move toward strategic roles that shift corporations toward decarbonization and sustainability. This is part of my work already, but I aim to directly effect these changes on a much larger scale by moving into a higher-level corporate strategy or sustainable finance role.
University of Michigan - Ann Arbor - Stephen M. Ross School of Business
Student
Verified
8/01/2024
On Campus
Best School Ever
Love the University of Michigan! There are so many incredible people of all different backgrounds. We have an huge student population so it is easy to find people with similar interests. Also a great education that sets you up for any job in the future.
Jude
Verified
20/06/2023
On Campus
Lecturers; inspiring excellence
As a student in general one thing that stands out for me is the quality of how Information is passed through, I am eager to express my utmost gratitude to how the lecturers who greatly enrich my academic path pass these information. The exceptional quality of education and unwavering dedication displayed by these outstanding individuals have consistently surpassed my highest expectations. I am grateful for the profound influence they have on my personal development and the remarkable strides I have made in my learning journey.
Kate
Verified
28/05/2023
Blended
Top Choice
The University of Michigan - Ann Arbor is renowned for its rigorous academic standards and comprehensive support systems that contribute to student career success. The undergraduate programs offered at the university are highly regarded, consistently ranking among the top public schools. The university's distinguished reputation and abundant resources empower students to excel. Faculty members are readily available and provide valuable guidance and knowledge to facilitate learning.
Fred
Verified
24/05/2023
On Campus
Remarkable journey
The University of Michigan has been a very fantastic experience for me. My expectations were surpassed by the high caliber of instruction, the enthusiastic lecturers, and the variety of options for personal development. The campus is stunning, and there is a wonderful sense of community there. The University of Michigan is a fantastic choice for a memorable collegiate experience. Go Blues!
George
Verified
18/05/2023
On Campus
Vibrant Atmosphere
The University of Michigan is a top institution with superb academics, outstanding faculty, and an unrivaled student experience. A quick stroll from end to end of Central Campus just takes a few minutes. The vibrant atmosphere of Ann Arbor, together with its accessibility to the city's center and abundance of dining options and activities, enhances its allure. An extra benefit is the convenient and effective transit system. The entire university experience was excellent!
Nitika Mittal
Verified
3/05/2023
Online
Leading Ambitious Teaching and Learning
I have enrolled in the course "Leading Ambitious Teaching and Learning."
It is starting on May 3rd and will end on August 31st, so it is a 6-week course. I am interested because it is a self-paced course which will help me with the following things;
Firstly, utilizing videos and other evidence can improve teachers' understanding of ambitious instruction. Providing teachers with practical examples and real-world applications can enhance their skills and knowledge. Secondly, technology can play a crucial role in supporting teachers and students in enacting ambitious instruction. Leveraging technology can provide additional resources, increase engagement, and promote personalized learning. Thirdly, research-based frameworks can be used to organize schools and systems to support ambitious instruction. Frameworks can help establish best practices and set standards for educators to follow. Lastly, leadership strategies and skills are vital to inspiring and supporting positive change. Strong leadership can motivate and guide teachers toward ambitious instruction while creating a positive school culture that prioritizes student learning.
This course is offered as certified and non-certified, and the fee for the certified course is very nominal (approx. $271). Moreover, all the professors are highly educated. This course has provided its course material online and it is supported by the Edx platform.
Overall, based on my educational background and work experience, I am confident that taking this course will provide me with additional qualifications and I can include it on my resume.
Student
Verified
4/04/2023
Online
World class institution
The University of Michigan is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community, and it has a number of initiatives aimed at promoting equity and inclusion on campus. For example, it has a comprehensive set of policies and programs aimed at increasing the representation of underrepresented minorities, women, and LGBTQ individuals among its students, faculty, and staff.
Student
Verified
4/04/2023
On Campus
Coolest university ever!
The University of Michigan is a world-class institution that offers its students an exceptional education and an unparalleled range of opportunities for intellectual and personal growth. With its commitment to academic excellence, research, and service, it is no surprise that it consistently ranks among the top public universities in the United States.
Student
Verified
4/04/2023
On Campus
Academic programs
The most impressive aspects of the University of Michigan is its academic programs. With over 260 degree programs across 19 schools and colleges, including highly ranked programs in engineering, business, law, and medicine, the university offers an unparalleled range of opportunities for students to pursue their academic interests and career aspirations. The faculty members are world-renowned scholars and experts in their respective fields, and they are committed to providing their students with a challenging, yet supportive, learning environment.
Student
Verified
12/01/2024
On Campus
U of Michigan
University of Michigan is known to be very academically rigorous while also having a booming social life for students. I believe it fully lived up to this reputation!! Every school and program is a power house and has the resources and opportunities for students to succeed.
Student
Verified
11/07/2024
On Campus
Research Excellence
Great opportunities for research and skill development through coursework and project based learning.
Great peers and collaborative environment overall.
Amazing location of the university at Ann Arbor.
Student
Verified
12/01/2025
On Campus
Vibrant and Diverse Campus
The campus is known for being vibrant, inclusive, and diverse. There’s a strong sense of community, with students from all walks of life engaging in a variety of clubs, organizations, and events.
Ann Arbor is a charming college town that’s consistently ranked among the best places to live for students. The town offers a blend of arts, culture, and nightlife, with plenty of cafes, restaurants, and entertainment options, as well as access to outdoor activities.
The university offers many student organizations, ensuring that nearly everyone can find a place to belong, whether that’s in academic clubs, cultural groups, sports, or special interest societies. I highly recommend this university to anyone that applies to it.
