“I’d describe it as transformational”: Matthew Grana and the Online BS in Management & Administration from LSUS

Meet Matthew Grana

Please introduce yourself (name, where you are from, degree program).

My name is Matthew Grana. I’m from Phoenix, Arizona, and I completed the online Bachelor of Science in Management & Administration through LSU Shreveport.

What initially made you apply to the online BS in Management & Administration from LSUS?

What drew me to LSUS was the flexibility and the reputation of the program. I was already working full-time in a fast-paced business environment, so I needed something that I could realistically balance alongside my career and family. At the same time, I didn’t want to sacrifice the quality of the education. LSUS stood out as a program that was both practical and respected, and it felt like the right fit from the start.

How did being an online student shape the way you engage with classmates and instructors?

Being an online student forced me to be more intentional with how I communicate. You don’t have the luxury of in-person conversations, so you learn how to be clear, direct, and thoughtful in discussions. I found that a lot of the interaction was actually more meaningful because people were balancing careers and bringing real-world perspectives into the conversations. It made the experience feel very practical rather than just theoretical.

What moment during your journey made you realize this program was the right choice for you?

There wasn’t just one moment, but more of a realization over time. As I progressed through the program, I started seeing direct connections between what I was learning and what I was dealing with in my day-to-day work. Whether it was strategy, decision-making, or understanding how organizations operate, I was able to apply concepts almost immediately. That’s when I knew I had made the right decision.

How has this experience influenced the way you see your future possibilities?

This experience gave me a lot more confidence in my ability to grow professionally and take on larger responsibilities. It helped me think more strategically and not just operationally. I now look at business challenges with a bigger-picture mindset, and I feel more prepared to step into leadership roles and continue building on what I’ve started.

What advice would you give to prospective students considering the program?

My biggest advice would be to stay consistent and treat it like a real commitment from day one. The flexibility is great, but you still have to put in the effort. If you stay disciplined and actually engage with the material, you’ll get a lot out of it. Also, don’t just go through the motions—try to connect what you’re learning to your real-life situation. That’s where it really starts to click.

If you had to describe your journey in this program using one word or phrase, what would it be—and why?

 would describe it as “transformational.” Not in an over-the-top way, but because it genuinely changed how I think about business, decision-making, and long-term growth. It helped me move from just doing the work to understanding why things work the way they do.

Is there anything else you want us to know?

One thing I’d add is that this program is especially valuable for people who are already in the workforce. It doesn’t just give you theory—it helps you sharpen how you think and operate in real situations. For me, that made the experience worth it.

Take the Next Step with LSU Online

Matthew’s story shows what’s possible when the right education can meet you where you are to push you further. If you’re ready to get to your next level without pausing your life, LSUS, through LSU Online, offers a flexible, high-quality path forward. The online Bachelor of Science in Management & Administration from LSUS is built for professionals who want the skills to lead, think strategically, and make smarter decisions.