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Larry J. Strong
MS in Business Management & Leadership
Class of 2013
Alumnus Larry J. Strong (Class of 2013) is a graduate of the CUNY SPS MS in Business Management & Leadership degree program.
Q: Why did you choose CUNY SPS?
While I was researching graduate programs, I was fully aware of the prestigious history of CUNY and the fact that many CUNY graduates had gone on to successful careers. I knew that CUNY SPS was the school for me. I also loved the fact that tuition was very affordable.
Q: What most appealed to you about your CUNY SPS degree program?
I have a BFA and I wanted a master’s degree to complement my background and experience. The CUNY SPS Business Management & Leadership degree program offered me the opportunity to learn accounting, management, economics and statistics — all without the requirement of previous business school experience. I was very eager to see what challenges a business education had to offer.
Q: How did you find your online/classroom interaction with other students? With faculty?
The online aspect of my academic experience was a perfect fit for my lifestyle. I work odd hours and needed to be able to study on my own time. Interacting with my fellow students was very rewarding, we participated in lively discussions and all had the same motivation to get our work done.
The faculty at CUNY SPS were very responsive and engaging. I had full access to my professors and could ask questions or request clarification on assignments.
Q: What were some of the most defining aspects of your time at CUNY SPS?
One of the most defining aspects of my time at CUNY SPS was my discovery of Google Hangouts. My classmates and I would often use this free service to do face-to-face study sessions. On occasion, our professor would chime in and help to direct our discussions. This is a powerful collaboration tool!
Q: What is the most important thing you learned at CUNY SPS?
The MOST important thing I learned at CUNY SPS is knowledge of self. I learned that I could be a good student. I learned that I could digest and process subjects like statistics, accounting and organizational behavior. Most importantly, I learned that I could do what I set out to do!
Q: How has your CUNY SPS degree influenced your career?
I work in a very creative environment. My CUNY SPS education has had a major influence on how I manage others and myself. I am more aware of good leadership practices, financial practices and business applications, as well as how to bring value to whatever project I’m involved with.
Q: What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
The most rewarding aspect of what I do is the opportunity to teach and mentor young people just now entering the workforce. I love passing on my experience to them.
Q: Where do you see yourself in five years?
In the future, I would like to be engaged in a full-scale entrepreneurial media venture. I would like to develop my creative ideas into commercial applications that bring consumers and businesses together