Casandra Adams

Medina, Ohio
Account Manager, Bearing Distributors, Inc.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background.

I was born and raised in Germany. My mother is German, and my father is African American. I moved to Texas when I was 14 and did my undergraduate degree at University of Texas El Paso. I joined the military upon graduating, served seven years as a logistics management officer, and separated in 2016 as a captain. I am currently in the Inactive Reserves until 2019. I received an M.A. in Transportation and Logistics Management from American Public University, and now I am working as an account manager for an industrial distributor and working on my MBA.

What made you decide to choose the University of Dayton’s MBA program?

I wanted a flexible online program that worked with my work and personal schedule. I also liked that each class had a live session where you can interact with the students and instructors, and I was very attracted to the immersions. The length of the program was just what I was looking for as well.

How will this degree move you closer to your long-term career goals?

I would like to own my own business one day, and this degree, along with my M.A. and BBA degrees, will definitely give me the edge to accomplish that.

What advice do you have for others considering this degree?

Do it. There’s no time like now. If you’re ever thinking about furthering your education, the answer is always do it!

How has MBA@Dayton’s focus on servant leadership influenced the way you approach business?

It’s made me focus more on becoming an active listener instead of working through a problem in my head right away, not giving my full attention. It’s more important to listen first and then ask questions.

What was it like meeting and connecting with your classmates in person?

It was great. Learning more in depth about the people you were in class with really puts everything into perspective. I got to connect with others I haven’t had a class with yet, and as I register for new classes and the rosters become available, I can see some of those people and it’s exciting.