Make Leaps in Your Career with the Online Flores MBA

Education plays a key role when it comes to advancing in leadership and tackling new career challenges. For professionals like Justin Buckwalter, the decision to pursue an MBA wasn't just about earning a degree—it was about gaining the tools needed to excel in high-level roles. As an online LSU Flores MBA graduate, Justin's journey showcases the program's flexibility, global perspective, and lasting impact. In this spotlight, he shares insights into his experience and how it's shaping his future.

Meet Justin Buckwalter 

What made you apply to the online Flores MBA from LSU? 

As I have advanced in my career, I realized that in order to take the next step in larger leadership roles, I needed to have a Master's degree, especially in Business, to achieve my greatest potential. Once that was realized, I wanted to get an MBA from a tier 1 institution with name recognition and respect. Given the reputation of LSU and its value, it was a no-brainer while I was living and working in the Middle East. 

Describe your time during the program. Did you encounter any obstacles in your journey? 

My time during the program was great as I look back on my 18-month MBA journey. I was challenged in ways I hadn't been before, giving me new perspectives on certain subjects I knew I needed to succeed. Given that I live and work in the Middle East and travel extensively for work, my time management was crucial. Thankfully, when there were schedule conflicts with exams and other graded activities, I was able to take exams a few days early to accommodate my busy schedule. 

What was your favorite part about the program? 

My favorite part of the program was going on the one-week trip to Vietnam and Singapore. Getting to meet with business owners and senior leaders was fantastic. I got to ask pointed questions about challenges they had faced in their organizations and how they adapted to overcome them. The contrasts between Vietnam, a fast-developing country going through growing pains, and Singapore, a fully developed country looking at ways to take it to the next level, were fascinating. It was a captivating look at two very different economies. 

How has earning your degree impacted your career? 

Earning my MBA has now armed me with the skills to pursue those Vice President and above-type career opportunities that I wouldn't have been considered for before my MBA. I am now in the process of looking at where my next steps will be to take on that new challenge. 

Do you have any advice that you would like to give to prospective students? 

If you are looking at a Master's degree, I would recommend gaining some work experience first. This makes you retain the material better and allows you to relate to certain situations you'll read about in the curriculum. For folks going straight into their Master's degrees after their undergrad, they won't be able to truly maximize the value of a Master's degree without having that work experience under their belt. 

Start Your Own MBA Journey with LSU  

Justin Buckwalter's story highlights the value of an MBA for professionals seeking to level up their careers. The online Flores MBA from the LSU E.J. Ourso College of Business offers the flexibility needed to balance a demanding work schedule, the opportunity to gain global business insights, and the credibility that comes with earning a degree from a respected institution. 
 
Whether you want to enhance your leadership skills, broaden your business perspective, or prepare for executive-level roles, this online MBA provides the comprehensive education you need to succeed. Explore more about the program, and apply today!