Nicole Rodriguez is ready to head out into the real world. Originally from Washington, Mo., Rodriguez found the MBA program at Southeast both convenient and affordable. She said the success she found at Southeast truly set her apart from the crowd.

“My MBA classes have really prepared me for the type of issues you find in the real business world,” she said. “I was also able to intern with the Southeast Missouri State University Foundation last semester, which gave me great experience in presenting to executive businessmen and women.”

“At the Foundation, I presented data analysis I had done on alumni-giving trends to alumni executives. The Foundation internship gave me greater experience in presenting data analysis, which I have used for other MBA courses.”

A part of her graduate program was an internship that has set her on the path to success. This past summer, Nicole interned for Procter & Gamble of Cape Girardeau in customer business development.

“I was a part of a team that sells to Wal-Mart in Fayetteville, Ark. I was responsible for a specific product category and was able to sell directly to Wal-Mart buyers,” she said. This successful internship led to a job opportunity that Nicole competed for against students nationwide.

“I will be working as a customer business development account manager for P & G, but have not officially found out where yet,” she said.

Nicole said her love for the beach makes her top choice Los Angeles, Calif.

“I love Cabo San Lucas, Los Angeles and Miami,” she said. “Anywhere with a beach, great shopping and a fun nightlife.” 

Given her excitement for travel and hard work, it’s no wonder that Nicole has found success in Southeast’s MBA program and in the business world.

When asked what advice she would give to future Southeast students, it’s no surprise that Nicole said, “take any internship opportunities you can. Even if it is not directly in the occupation you think you want, it will give you a lot of experience and insight into the real world.”

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