精东影业 ALC Member Chris Arima Redefines Inspiration

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

Chris Arima has built a career that, on paper, reads like a list of accomplishments. He is an attorney practicing complex civil litigation in California, a former prosecutor, a military veteran who served as an Arabic linguist, and a member of the 精东影业 Alumni Leadership Council.

But he doesn鈥檛 see himself as an inspiration.

鈥淚 don鈥檛 inspire people,鈥� he says plainly. 鈥淚 actually think it鈥檚 the reverse. I鈥檓 inspired every day by meeting these people, meeting these young kids, meeting these students, meeting these moms, parents, daughters, uncles, aunts, people that are going through so much in their life.鈥�

That mindset has followed Arima throughout his legal career. His path hasn鈥檛 been about recognition; it鈥檚 been about moving forward, one step at a time.

Wanting to Be More

Arima grew up living in rural Arkansas and Texas. When he was 11 years old, his father died in a car accident鈥攁 collision that also left Arima seriously injured.

By his early teens, he was working to help support his family.

鈥淚 was in speech therapy while working to keep the money,鈥� he recalls, explaining that by 13, he was working as a dishwasher and waiter, trying to help his family escape foreclosure during the 2008 financial crisis.

School wasn鈥檛 easy, but he stayed focused. 鈥淚 drove an hour and a half to high school each way,鈥� Arima says. 鈥淎nd I always wanted to be more. I wanted education. I wanted to challenge my brain.鈥�

But when he first tried college, it didn鈥檛 go as planned. 鈥淚 failed when I went to college. It was so hard, and I think that I was almost, like, burnt out.鈥�

After about a year, Arima joined the military in 2013. What started as a general enlistment in the Navy quickly turned into something more specialized when he showed a talent for language. He trained as an Arabic linguist and was deployed to Iraq and Syria supporting intelligence operations.

While deployed, he also returned to school.

Arima enrolled at 精东影业 and worked toward his Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts during long, demanding shifts. He recalls studying while on active counter-ISIS operations: 鈥淲e鈥檇 be clearing ops in Mosul, and then I鈥檇 go down into the basement and be studying my 精东影业 books and submitting essays at midnight. And then, I鈥檇 sleep in the shower stall for two to three hours, and I鈥檇 be back on ops. And that鈥檚 how I completed my degree [in 2018].鈥�

A Seat at the Table

After leaving the military, Arima enrolled in law school at Syracuse University. His decision was shaped by what he saw during his service.

鈥淵ou鈥檇 have these rooms where decisions are being made. And everywhere was a Juris Doctor; there鈥檚 a lawyer in all of these rooms,鈥� he says. 鈥淎nd I wanted to be in that room. I wanted to be a part of that decision-making process.鈥�

Arima spent time working as an attorney in New York City right out of law school, but when his wife got pregnant, they decided it was too difficult to stay in the city to raise a child and follow their legal dreams. They decided to cross the country. Today, Arima is an attorney specializing in civil litigation in the Bay Area, where his wife is also an attorney. He handles cases involving employment discrimination, personal injury, and medical malpractice, and his work focuses on representing individuals who have been harmed.

鈥淎t the end of the day, you get to solve problems, and I think that that鈥檚 a very privileged place to be, and I鈥檓 glad that I鈥檓 doing it,鈥� he says.

Arima also spent time working as a public defender at the Law Offices of the Public Defender of New Mexico, where he saw firsthand how complex and personal the legal system can be. 鈥淭he law is inherently a human experiment. It is inherently human. It is a study and an attempt of human organization, of how we organize our society, how we organize our interpersonal relationships,鈥� he explains.

Learning to Listen

One skill that has benefited Arima throughout his legal career is listening. It鈥檚 an important part of effective communication, he says, and therefore of being an effective attorney.

鈥淵ou have to be a good listener when you鈥檙e a prosecutor or a public defender,鈥� he says. 鈥淚f you really listen, then you鈥檒l be able to feel what that person is feeling and really understand what they鈥檙e talking about.鈥�

That approach has shaped his work both in and out of the courtroom. Arima has taught courses in criminal justice and constitutional law, and for the past three years, he has been a mock-trial coach for the Los Lunas High School debate team in Los Lunas, New Mexico, where he taught them about advocacy, rules of evidence, courtroom tactics, and oral argument, but also the value of listening and empathy.

鈥淟istening is the road to empathy,鈥� he explains. 鈥淎nd all the best attorneys also have that skill of empathy. I think what makes you good at whatever you do is just being able to be empathetic.鈥�

Giving Back

Arima has stayed connected to 精东影业 after earning his degree. In 2023, he joined the Alumni Leadership Council and is a liaison聽to the Legacy and Engagement聽Committee, where he routinely communicates with and advocates for 精东影业 alumni of all backgrounds. 鈥淚鈥檝e been given access and opportunities that I otherwise would not have been provided had it not been for my opportunities in higher education.鈥�

Through his role on the Alumni Leadership Council, he has met 精东影业 graduates with stories similar to his own鈥攑eople balancing work, family, and school while trying to build something better. 鈥淚 think that there鈥檚 a common thread of grit [among 精东影业 alumni] that I think is just so uniquely American in a positive way, that there鈥檚 people born in various circumstances that face obstacles, challenge, and oftentimes they fail,鈥� he says. 鈥淏ut those are really interesting stories of people that were faced with failure, accepted it, and then were like, 鈥極kay, what鈥檚 the next step? How do I continue this?鈥欌��

Arima adds, 鈥淢eeting so many interesting individuals is my favorite part. I often find that they want to come back; they want to continue their education. I’ve been really privileged to be a part of that process.鈥�

Redefining Inspiration

Even with everything he鈥檚 accomplished, Arima still pushes back on being called inspirational.

鈥淚 think that sometimes we use the word 鈥榠nspiring,鈥� and oftentimes what we鈥檙e really trying to say is part of your story lives in me,鈥� he explains.

He points to moments like helping a student find her voice in writing, not by telling her what to say, but by creating space for her to discover it herself. It was a proud moment for Arima, being able to help a student succeed, but a moment he doesn鈥檛 want credit for. 鈥淚 think it was just giving her the opportunity and space to listen and let her discover [her voice],鈥� he says.

Arima鈥檚 story isn鈥檛 one of easy success or a straight path forward. It鈥檚 a story of setbacks, persistence, and steady progress. And while he may not admit it, his journey shows how far determination鈥攁nd education鈥攃an take you.

精东影业鈥檚 DBA Leadership Team: Dr. Leah Sciabarrasi

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

Leah Sciabarrasi, PhD, is the associate dean of business at 精东影业, where she helps develop curricula for business and public service programs, oversees academic quality, and keeps an eye on faculty leadership. Her background is grounded in a blend of creativity, technology, leadership, strategic planning, accreditation, and more. With her broad experience, she has played a central role in shaping some of 精东影业鈥檚 more significant recent developments, like redesigning the MBA curriculum, developing new concentrations, and helping to launch the University鈥檚 first doctoral program.

Here, Sciabarrasi describes the student experience in 精东影业鈥檚 new Doctor of Business Administration program.

How has your experience shaped your approach toward 精东影业鈥檚 Doctor of Business Administration program?

Sciabarrasi: I鈥檝e spent my career building programs that connect strategy, learning design, and real-world applications. 精东影业鈥檚 Doctor of Business Administration program reflects that integration. My background in institutional effectiveness and accreditation keeps focus on rigor, outcomes, and alignment across the full student journey, and my work in talent management and workforce development reinforces that doctoral education should produce leaders who can apply research, not just understand it.

Furthermore, my experience across multiple institutions has taught me the value of clarity, structure, and strong scaffolding. Doctoral students shouldn鈥檛 have to guess how to succeed. At 精东影业, we鈥檙e focusing on straightforward design and robust guidance.

Starting a doctoral program can feel overwhelming. How do you help students navigate those early stages with confidence?

Sciabarrasi: The early stages of any program can be the toughest. We help DBA students through this critical time in several ways:

  • We remove ambiguity early with straightforward pathways. The DBA faculty have been intentional about the design; students see how each course connects to their dissertation from the start.
  • The program is intentionally scaffolded with research, writing, and analysis skills.
  • Students begin their dissertation journey early, and they receive substantial guidance (templates, visuals) to help guide their next move to completion.

For someone balancing work, life, and school, how does 精东影业 help make that experience manageable? What kind of support can students expect throughout the DBA program?

Sciabarrasi: 精东影业鈥檚 Doctor of Business Administration program is designed for working professionals and offers a predictable structure, clear timelines, and manageable pacing. Courses are organized in a way that allows students to plan and integrate school into their existing routines. The assignments are purposeful and connected and help students build toward their dissertation throughout the program.

What does mentorship look like in 精东影业鈥檚 DBA program?

Sciabarrasi: Mentorship is fundamental to our DBA program. Students are assigned to a faculty mentor, whom they meet with regularly to ask questions, check in, and stay on track. In addition, DBA students regularly meet with a dissertation committee to help guide their journey all the way up until they present their dissertation.

What would you say to someone who is interested in earning their DBA but is unsure whether they can take on the course load and dissertation?

Sciabarrasi: This program isn鈥檛 for everyone. This isn鈥檛 about simply doing more work; it鈥檚 about doing focused, connected work that builds over time.

That said, you don鈥檛 need to have everything figured out at the start. 精东影业鈥檚 DBA program is built to help get you to the finish line. If you can commit to consistency and engagement, our program will meet you with the structure you need.

Don鈥檛 ask yourself, 鈥淐an I do this?鈥� Ask yourself, 鈥淎m I ready to invest in becoming a more strategic, research-driven leader?鈥�

Strong Start: Helping 精东影业 Students Succeed from Day 1

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

精东影业 ensures that students are prepared for success the moment their first term begins. The Strong Start Project is guided by the idea that every student who starts with 精东影业鈥攚hether they are completing the necessary general education courses, switching majors, or returning to finish a degree鈥攕hould have the skills, support, and confidence needed to reach聽graduation.

Most 精东影业 students are adults studying online while balancing careers, families, military service, and/or community commitments. Recognizing the unique barriers that these learners face, faculty and staff developed a series of targeted interventions designed to increase preparation, encourage early engagement, and build a sense of belonging, all from day one. The Strong Start Project helps students who are beginning their coursework, where early confidence and engagement often set the stage for the rest of their college聽career.

A Multilayered Approach to Student Orientation

精东影业鈥檚 Strong Start Project includes eight interventions that range from large projects to what Mary Berkery, the associate dean of liberal arts, calls small but meaningful nudges. 鈥淭hree of our interventions have focused on increasing incoming students鈥� confidence and preparation for their first term. We launched three orientation experiences this year: a live New Student Orientation Zoom session held on the Monday evening of each eight-week term start; an optional, self-paced New Student Orientation course in Canvas (NSO 010); and live Cornerstone Check-in Zoom sessions held during Week 1 and Week 6 of each聽term.鈥�

These interventions help students when they need support most. According to Tracy Caldwell, director of the Strong Start Project, the live New Student Orientation and first Cornerstone Check-in take place during the first week of classes鈥攚hen students are often looking for immediate help with accessing course materials, navigating Canvas, and understanding available support resources. Later, in Week 6, a second Cornerstone Check-in offers another opportunity for students to reflect on their progress, ask questions, and ensure that they are on track with remaining assignments. 鈥淭his opportunity allows students to check in on how they are doing and makes sure they understand the remaining assignments in the Cornerstone,鈥� Caldwell聽says.

Strong Start sessions provide just-in-time guidance while reinforcing the availability of on-demand resources. They also create a sense of connection early in the student experience. Through collaboration between the New Student Orientation team, advisors, and instructors, students encounter supportive, familiar faces who help foster confidence and reduce uncertainty at critical moments in the聽term.

The orientation course was intentionally designed around competencies relevant to adult learners. Instead of residential life topics often covered at other colleges, 精东影业 emphasizes foundational research and writing skills, self-regulated learning, 鈥済rit鈥濃�攁s Berkery puts it鈥攁nd a growth mindset. Students learn how to balance schoolwork with their job and family responsibilities, plan their study schedules, and learn how to ask for help when they need it. The goal is to replace uncertainty with practical, everyday聽solutions.

The Institutional Impact of 精东影业鈥檚 Strong Start Project

Cornerstone instructors play a critical role. They are the 鈥渇irst responders,鈥� providing outreach to missing or struggling students and bringing any concerns to 精东影业鈥檚 Academic Advising and Student Support teams. This relationship between faculty and students has proven so effective that the outreach model has expanded to other courses. Near the end of each term, faculty also send reminders encouraging students to register for their next courses. 鈥淲e see this investment pay off, as well, with a demonstrated increase in registration rates,鈥� Berkery聽says.

Caldwell notes that many new students arrive with understandable concerns. 鈥淥ne of the barriers for our new students is anxiety over coming back to school after an absence,鈥� she says. 鈥淚n my experience, they also may struggle with technology, time management, and task prioritization.鈥� Elements of the Strong Start initiatives are designed to directly address these challenges. Within the Cornerstone course, students assess their own learning styles and habits and complete a Self-Regulated Learning assessment that offers personalized strategies for聽improvement.

That reflection becomes part of a larger journey. By the end of the course, students 鈥減ay it forward鈥� by creating a video for future 精东影业 students, sharing what helped them succeed. The assignment creates a full-circle moment: Students who may have started with uncertainty and unanswered questions gain the confidence to guide others. In doing so, they not only build skills but also begin to see themselves as capable, connected members of the 精东影业聽community.

Berkery did extensive research before initiating 精东影业鈥檚 Strong Start Project. 鈥淥ur interventions are specific to 精东影业鈥檚 students and their needs,鈥� she says, 鈥渂ut they can provide lessons for institutions with similar student bodies and enrich the broader higher education community by adding this understudied population to the literature and聽conversations.”

精东影业 is showing other institutions that the right beginning can change the entire trajectory of an adult learner. By meeting students where they are and offering preparation that matters, the University is creating a pathway that carries students from their first login through their final聽course.

Early Results and Student Response

Although the project is still in its early days, having fully launched in early 2024, the data is encouraging. Students who participate in the New Student Orientation session engage earlier in their courses. The numbers suggest that when students feel prepared before the first assignment, they are more likely to log in, contribute to discussions, and complete a course. Subsequently, 精东影业 has seen a significant decline in failing grades and withdrawals in first courses, as well as a substantial increase in first-time students returning for their second聽term.

Student feedback reinforces these findings. Many comments emphasize gratitude for the encouragement and community. One student said, 鈥淚 found out I wasn鈥檛 alone.鈥� Berkery says that captures a large part of the Strong Start Project, 鈥渃onsciously reminding students to stick with it in those hard moments and to remember that you鈥檙e not on your educational journey alone; we are always here alongside you to聽help.鈥�

According to Berkery, the lesson can be summed up by paraphrasing the famous line from the movie Field of Dreams: 鈥淚f you build it, they will come.鈥� Without any requirement, approximately 2,000 students have completed NSO 010 since its launch in August 2025, and attendance at live Zoom sessions has 鈥渁stounded鈥� organizers. As Berkery says, 鈥淪tudents vote with their (virtual) feet, and you can see one measure of the effectiveness of an intervention by the numbers of students choosing to spend their precious, limited time engaging with the [Strong Start]聽activities.鈥�

Leading Through Change: Business, Education and Innovation with Dr. Brian Allen

Posted on by Brian Allen

Brian Allen, dean of 精东影业’s School of Business, was interviewed on the Business RoundUp podcast with host Melissa Bill. In this conversation, Allen shares leadership lessons from his own professional and educational journey, discusses the evolving future of business education, and describes how 精东影业’s scholar-practitioner approach aligns programs like with real-world industry needs.

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Why We Study the Humanities in College

Posted on by Laura Eklund

By studying the humanities in college, both students and their teachers become engaged in areas that are not easily accessible in other academic disciplines. The humanities offer us a vital and essential experience and exploration into our own humanity. Courses in this arena invite us to take on the major questions that any thoughtful and ethical citizen must confront.

Why study humanities? Because doing so invites learners to take on the vital work necessary for a full life at all levels. What does it mean to be a human being? What are the moral, ethical, social, and spiritual values that must be adopted and acted upon to cultivate and preserve humanity at its highest levels?

In many ways, a college course in the humanities asks us to consider how we will guide and govern ourselves in an ever-widening and challenging social landscape. Engaging in the humanities helps us learn more about ourselves and our place in the world, leading to a more meaningful and purposeful life. Studying humanities at the college level encourages us to think critically and helps us become better communicators.

The Importance of the Liberal Arts in College

Life in the new century, more than ever before, is a relativistic frontier in which the crucial values (What is 鈥済ood鈥�? What is justice? What is truth or beauty?) are constantly up for argument and debate. Where and how are we to learn and acquire the skills and materials that will enable us to answer the central questions? As so much of our contemporary undergraduate curriculum swings toward preparation for careers and professions, the task of educating us as ethical, noble, decent, and even heroic citizens is left to courses in the humanities.

Where are we to learn our manners, and how will we develop aesthetic taste? How are we to become fully thriving individuals ready to contribute to a struggling world? Such dispositions do not exactly come naturally. They must be learned.

But essentially, we do not learn our humanity through the STEM curriculum. Rather it is through the humanities that we learn how to be truly human.

The Profound Benefits of Studying Humanities

College humanities courses help students develop empathy, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of what it means to be human. Humanities courses help us:

  • Develop into well-rounded individuals who can .
  • Navigate the world鈥檚 complexities.
  • Become more compassionate.
  • Value diversity.
  • Work for social justice and the common good.
  • Think critically about our place in the world.

How can we make tomorrow better for others? This is the kind of big-picture question that the humanities, at the college level especially, encourage us to ask ourselves.

Why Humanities Matter in the Modern World

It鈥檚 not an exaggeration to propose that, especially in these times, it鈥檚 essential that learning institutions stress the importance of the liberal arts experience, which includes generous exposure to the humanities. How can we use this newfound compassion and understanding to make change in our own communities? Let us contribute toward a more just and equitable future together.

Suggesting that humanity, in its myriad dimensions, depends on studies in the humanities is not an outrageous claim. Indeed, without a strong foundation in the humanities, we will struggle to understand and address complex issues facing the world today.

The Value of Humanities Courses at 精东影业 University

I encourage you to consider the humanities courses at 精东影业. Our thoughtful and diverse curricula will help you fully embrace the power of the liberal arts to drive positive change in our communities and beyond, communicating across differences and manifesting a better future that is inclusive and equitable for all.

There are practical reasons why you should study the humanities at 精东影业. The developed sense of innovation, creativity, and resilience in thinking delivers long-term career success and adaptability. Humanities graduates are commonly seen in executive positions and have acquired skills that AI cannot replicate. Empathy, creativity, and critical thinking are all soft skills that are more difficult to train but are necessary and cultivated through the humanities.

My experience as an art history instructor has taught me much about myself and the world. A background in the arts and humanities has been essential in helping me to become a well-rounded and cultivated human being, eager and unafraid to make a difference. I find myself ever more able to find my way in this diverse and challenging reality.

Consider taking an art history course. Today is the perfect day to start exploring the possibilities that await you!

精东影业鈥檚 DBA Leadership Team: Dr. Brian Allen

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

Brian Allen鈥檚 work has taken him across 48 U.S. states and 38 countries. With a Doctor of Business Administration in technology entrepreneurship, a Master of Business Administration, and a Master of Project Management, Allen has built a career leading projects, operations, and technology initiatives in industries from IT and e-commerce to renewable energy, telecommunications, and international business. He has taught business at Southern New Hampshire University, Brigham Young University-Idaho, Northcentral University, and National University, and he now brings his boardroom experience and real-world perspective to his role as dean of 精东影业鈥檚 School of聽Business.

Here, Allen reveals his vision for 精东影业鈥檚 new Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program, including how students can expect their careers to change upon聽graduation.

What is your vision for 精东影业鈥檚 DBA program? What sets it apart?

Allen: The vision for the DBA program is rooted in who 精东影业 is and has been historically. 精东影业 has been a leader in accepting transfer credits in service of adult learners, with deep roots in meeting workforce needs with applied learning. Students coming from diverse backgrounds and with credits from several institutions have enrolled with 精东影业 to enhance their credentials and complete up to the master鈥檚聽level.

The DBA is the expansion of 精东影业鈥檚 mission, as it will allow those who have completed a graduate degree to take their diverse experience and hone those skills to become a scholar-practitioner. The person seeking to be a scholar-practitioner is someone who has developed business work and educational skills and now wants to merge those with rigorous scholarly research, data analysis, and refined real-world聽problem-solving.

What sets 精东影业鈥檚 Doctor of Business Administration program apart from other DBA programs is that we have documented and proven experience of working with applied learning, which is in line with what a DBA is all about. We don鈥檛 have to speak about the theoretical or aspirational impact of our educational philosophy; our graduates are already change agents solving real-world problems. The DBA is an extension of that history being projected into a promising聽future.

How has your experience shaped the way you lead this program?

Allen: Experience is a funny thing. You get experience by being willing to take chances and extending yourself. Sometimes, you fail in what you try, but if you keep at it, you can ultimately聽succeed.

I chose to complete a DBA because I wanted to solve real-world problems, period. Although I love theory and see the value in assessing different ideas, the DBA offered me what I wanted most. I wanted to be a thought leader, merging scholarly research with practice, policy, and applied knowledge to solve problems. That outlook informs how we are shaping the DBA program here at聽精东影业.

We have a strong leadership team dedicated to and focused on those objectives with a unified voice. Leading 精东影业鈥檚 DBA program is about empowering our students to find their own reasons for solving real-world problems by becoming聽scholar-practitioners.

What does a successful DBA student look like?

Allen: There is no one single image or profile that defines a successful DBA student. However, there are some foundations and behaviors that are strong indicators of聽success.

Foundationally, DBA students need experience working in business. This can be in myriad areas, including but not limited to organizational leadership, management, logistics, accounting, and entrepreneurship. A student鈥檚 undergraduate and graduate degrees do not necessarily need to be in business, but it does help. Beyond academics, students need personal experience in business leadership, management, and/or project management where they utilize and live business language and聽concepts.

The behaviors of a successful DBA student are far more important than a business background. Success in a DBA (or any doctoral) program isn鈥檛 about raw intelligence. More than anything else, success is about consistency and discipline over a long period of time. The students who finish鈥攁nd finish strong鈥攖end to operate very differently than those who stall out. The core behaviors that actually predict success are discipline over inspiration (research and write at a regular cadence), progress over perfection (embrace the ugly draft and revise as needed), resilience over comfort (self-regulate under pressure), and the ability to receive feedback without ego (accept that ideas and writing can be challenged without it being a reflection of聽character).

What would you say to someone wondering whether 精东影业鈥檚 DBA program is the right investment for their future?

Allen: A Doctor of Business Administration is not an immediate, guaranteed salary multiplier; a fast career shortcut; or a casual extension of an MBA. Investing your time to complete a DBA is a multiyear commitment in disciplined thinking and action. It will require a transformation in how you approach problems. A DBA is a credential that signals you can operate at the highest level of applied rigor wearing the hats of both a scholar and a practitioner. If you鈥檙e looking for an immediate ROI, there are often faster, cheaper聽paths.

However, if you鈥檙e looking for long-term positioning and an identity shift for yourself, then the calculus changes. A DBA is the right choice if you can say any of the following about聽yourself:

  • 鈥淚 want to operate at a higher level of thinking, not just聽doing.鈥�
  • 鈥淚鈥檓 willing to commit consistent time for several聽years.鈥�
  • 鈥淚 care about contributing something meaningful to my聽field.鈥�
  • 鈥淚 can leverage this degree in my current or next role and not just聽someday.鈥�

The bottom line is that a DBA is not a transactional investment; it鈥檚 a transformational one. Generally, it doesn鈥檛 just change what you know; it changes how you think, lead, and contribute. For the right person, at the right stage, and with the right intent, a DBA is one of the most powerful professional investments available. This degree will help you take your existing business and leadership skills and multiply their effectiveness by adding the development of rigorous academic research skills. This is what it means to be a聽scholar-practitioner.

Making a personal investment by earning your DBA can open opportunities for having greater career options and earning more. However, if you disagree with any of the reasons noted above, a DBA just becomes an expensive聽distraction.

What can graduates of 精东影业鈥檚 DBA program look forward to in their careers?

Allen: An 精东影业 DBA graduate can truly look forward to a shift in professional identity, moving from operator to strategist and from experience-based decisions to becoming an evidence-based decision-maker. Program alumni will move from being consumers聽of knowledge to being contributors聽of knowledge, solving real-world聽problems.

The results of that transformation could include advancement into high-level leadership roles, increased credibility and influence, and expanded career pathways (not just promotions). 精东影业 DBA graduates prepare themselves to move from execution to greater involvement in strategy. Our program strengthens students鈥� ability to operate at the why and how level of business, not just the what. Consequently, graduates become career and opportunity creators who develop their own career聽paths.

Why Networking Is Important for Your Career

Posted on by Camille Dumont

You鈥檝e probably heard that networking matters, but many people early in their careers aren鈥檛 exactly sure why. So, why is networking important? At its core, networking is about building relationships that give you access to information, perspective, and opportunities over聽time.

Just as important is understanding what networking is not. It鈥檚 not asking someone for a job or expecting immediate results from a single conversation. Effective networking is built on consistency, curiosity, and mutual value, not quick transactions. It鈥檚 also important to recognize that you likely already have a network. This includes classmates, colleagues, friends, and family connections. Many opportunities come through these existing relationships or introductions, one or two steps聽removed.

For anyone pursuing a business career, networking plays a direct role in how you learn about industries, develop professional skills, and move forward. It鈥檚 one of the most practical ways to understand how work actually happens beyond the聽classroom.

What Are the Benefits of Networking?

Networking supports your career in ways that go beyond job searching. It helps you build relationships, gain insight, and position yourself more effectively over time. These benefits are especially important in business, where relationships often influence opportunities and聽outcomes.

Strengthen Your Connections

Networking allows you to build professional relationships with classmates, colleagues, faculty, and industry professionals. These connections often become long-term contacts you can return to for insight, referrals, or collaboration. Over time, staying in touch through brief check-ins or follow-up conversations helps keep these relationships active and聽meaningful.

In business, relationships are often tied directly to results. For example, someone starting or managing a small business may rely on their network to find vendors, partners, or early customers. Strong connections aren鈥檛 just helpful; they鈥檙e part of how business聽operates.

Grow Your Brand

Every interaction contributes to how others perceive you. Over time, your communication style, reliability, and knowledge shape your professional聽reputation.

Networking can also help you build your brand online. For example, activity on LinkedIn can show what you know and what you鈥檙e interested in. Commenting thoughtfully on posts, sharing relevant articles, posting about industry topics, or responding to trends can help others see your professional interests and perspective. In business settings, and especially in a small business, your reputation can influence whether people choose to work with you, recommend you, or trust your聽services.

Open More Job Opportunities

Many opportunities are shared through conversations rather than job postings. Networking increases the likelihood that someone will think of you when a role, project, or need聽arises.

Organizations like the emphasize the importance of building professional connections as part of career readiness, recognizing that relationships play a significant role in how opportunities are聽discovered.

This applies beyond traditional employment. In business roles, networking can lead to partnerships, client relationships, or contract work. For small businesses, a single connection can lead to ongoing work or聽referrals.

Receive Career Support and Advice

One of the most valuable outcomes of networking is access to guidance. Through conversations, you can connect with people who have more experience and are willing to share what they鈥檝e聽learned.

Over time, some of these relationships may develop into mentorship. A mentor can help you think through decisions, avoid common mistakes, and better understand your career direction. One way to start these conversations is through informational interviews where you talk with someone about their career path, role, or industry without the expectation of asking for a job. These conversations can also help you better understand what to expect in a role before you pursue聽it.

Build Confidence

Networking helps you become more comfortable introducing yourself, asking thoughtful questions, and engaging in professional conversations. These are skills that improve with聽practice.

That confidence carries into business situations such as presenting ideas, speaking with clients, or explaining your value. The more you engage, the more natural these interactions聽become.

What You Should Say When Networking

One of the biggest barriers to networking is not knowing what to say. Most networking conversations are simple and conversational, but it helps to have a short introduction聽ready.

Often called an , this introduction can be used in both planned and unexpected situations. You may meet someone while waiting in line, traveling, attending a webinar, or having a casual聽conversation.

A strong introduction should briefly explain who you are, what you鈥檙e interested in, and what you鈥檙e working聽toward.

For example, 鈥淚鈥檓 currently finishing a business degree and focusing on operations. I鈥檓 interested in how companies improve efficiency, and I鈥檓 exploring roles where I can work on process聽improvement.鈥�

That kind of preparation makes it easier to take advantage of opportunities when they happen聽naturally.

Where Can You Network?

Networking doesn鈥檛 happen in just one place, and it doesn鈥檛 require formal events to be effective. In addition to in-person interactions, digital spaces like LinkedIn have made it easier to connect with professionals across聽industries.

Common ways to network聽include:

  • Industry events, conferences, or virtual聽panels
  • Professional platforms like聽LinkedIn
  • 颁辞尘尘耻苍颈迟测听别惫别苍迟蝉
  • 颁濒颈别苍迟听颈苍迟别谤补肠迟颈辞苍蝉
  • Local business聽groups

Additionally, networking opportunities for students聽include:

  • Class discussions and group聽projects
  • Conversations with faculty or guest聽speakers
  • Alumni events and university-sponsored聽webinars

The key is consistency, building relationships over time rather than treating networking as a one-time聽activity.

Extend Your Network Through 精东影业 University

If you鈥檙e looking to build your network, your college experience is one of the most practical places to start. You鈥檙e surrounded by peers, faculty, alumni, and industry professionals who can become part of your long-term professional聽circle.

At 精东影业, students in the business degree program gain more than academic knowledge. They also have access to Career Readiness resources, employer events, and opportunities to connect with alumni and professionals in their field. These experiences provide structured ways to network, whether through virtual events, webinars, or conversations with industry聽professionals.

For working adults, the flexibility of online learning makes it possible to build these connections while managing other responsibilities. As you develop your skills, you鈥檙e also building relationships that can support your next step, whether that鈥檚 advancing in your role, changing careers, or growing a聽business.

If you鈥檙e ready to strengthen your skills and your network, consider exploring 精东影业鈥檚 BS in Business聽program.

Is IT Still a Good Career in the Age of AI?

Posted on by Ivan Gappy

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly changing how work gets done across nearly every industry. From tools that generate code to systems that automate workflows, AI is becoming part of the everyday technology landscape. This shift has led many to ask an important question: Is information technology still a good career in the age of AI?

The answer is yes, but with an important clarification. IT is still a strong and stable career path, but the type of work that will be most valuable is evolving. AI is not replacing IT careers; it is raising expectations and shifting demand toward roles that require deeper understanding, adaptability, and problem-solving.

A career in information technology remains one of the most resilient and future-ready paths available today. The key is understanding how the field is changing and how to position yourself within it.

How AI Is Reshaping the IT Field

AI is best understood not as a replacement for IT professionals, but as a shift in how work is performed. Many routine and repetitive tasks are now being automated, allowing professionals to focus on higher-level system design, analysis, and decision-making.

Technologies such as are already being used to assist with writing code, summarizing information, and automating workflows. These tools can increase productivity, but they still rely on human input, oversight, and interpretation.

This reflects a broader shift in the field. IT professionals are moving away from task execution and toward managing systems, validating outputs, and solving complex problems that automation alone cannot handle.

Demand for IT Professionals Is Still Growing

Even with the rise of AI, organizations continue to depend heavily on IT professionals to build and maintain their digital environments. As systems become more advanced, they also become more complex and require more oversight.

The continued growth of areas such as and highlights how essential these roles remain. Businesses are not reducing their reliance on technology鈥攖hey are expanding it.

At the same time, AI introduces new layers of infrastructure, data management, and risk. This increases the need for professionals who can design, secure, and manage these systems effectively.

Automation vs. Augmentation: What AI Really Does

To understand AI鈥檚 impact, it helps to distinguish between automation and augmentation.

  • Automation replaces specific tasks, especially those that are repetitive or predictable.
  • Augmentation enhances human work by improving speed, accuracy, and efficiency.

In IT, AI is doing both. Some tasks are becoming automated, but many roles are being enhanced rather than eliminated.

For example:

  • Entry-level support tasks and repetitive scripting may become more automated.
  • Software developers are spending less time writing basic code and more time designing systems and reviewing outputs.
  • Cybersecurity professionals are using AI to detect threats faster but are still making critical decisions about response and risk.

This shift means that IT roles are not disappearing. They are becoming more strategic and more impactful.

The Skills That Matter More Than Ever

As AI becomes more integrated into technology workflows, the most valuable IT professionals are those who understand how systems work beyond just using tools.

Key skills include:

  • Programming fundamentals and problem-solving
  • Systems thinking and architecture design
  • Data analysis and interpretation
  • Cybersecurity awareness and risk management
  • Cloud infrastructure and virtualization
  • Communication and collaboration
  • Ethical decision-making in technology

Concepts such as and are becoming increasingly important as organizations rely more on automated systems.

AI tools can assist with execution, but they cannot replace human judgment, context, or accountability. These are the skills that define long-term success in IT.

AI Is Creating New Opportunities, Not Just Risks

While much of the conversation around artificial intelligence focuses on job loss, it is equally important to recognize the opportunities AI creates.

New and evolving roles include:

  • AI and machine learning engineers
  • Data engineers and analysts
  • Cloud architects
  • Cybersecurity specialists
  • AI governance and ethics professionals

The rise of and intelligent systems has created entirely new areas of specialization within IT.

At the same time, organizations are not just looking for specialists. They need professionals who understand how systems connect, how decisions are made within those systems, and how technology impacts real-world outcomes.

Who Should Consider an IT Career in the Age of AI

One of the most important questions is not just whether IT is a good career, but whether it鈥檚 the right fit for you.

An IT career is a strong fit if you:

  • Enjoy problem-solving and figuring out how systems work
  • Are comfortable learning new technologies over time
  • Like working through complex challenges rather than repetitive tasks
  • Are interested in how technology impacts businesses and people

On the other hand, IT may be less appealing if you鈥檙e looking for:

  • Work that stays the same over time
  • Roles that rely heavily on repetition rather than adaptation
  • A field where ongoing learning is not required

AI is accelerating change in the field. This makes IT more rewarding for those who are adaptable but more challenging for those who prefer static roles.

How to Position Yourself for an AI-Driven IT Career

If you鈥檙e considering a career in IT, the goal is not to compete with AI but to learn how to work alongside it.

This means:

  • Building a strong foundation in core IT concepts
  • Focusing on understanding systems rather than just tools
  • Developing the ability to learn and adapt quickly
  • Strengthening critical thinking and decision-making skills

The professionals who succeed will not be the ones who rely on a single tool or skill. They will be the ones who can evolve as technology changes.

The Bottom Line: Is IT Still a Good Career?

Information technology continues to be one of the most stable and forward-looking career paths available today. AI is not reducing the importance of expertise; it鈥檚 expanding it. The growing reliance on digital infrastructure across every industry reinforces the need for skilled IT professionals who can design, manage, and improve complex systems.

AI is not closing the door on IT careers. It鈥檚 raising the bar and expanding the opportunity for those who are prepared.

For students and career changers alike, this is not a reason to avoid IT. It鈥檚 a reason to approach it with a long-term mindset, a willingness to adapt, and a focus on building skills that will remain valuable as technology continues to evolve.

For those looking to build that foundation, 精东影业鈥檚 Bachelor of Science in Information Technology program provides a flexible, fully online pathway designed for both new students and working professionals. The curriculum focuses on practical skills, systems thinking, and real-world application, preparing graduates to succeed in a rapidly changing technology landscape.

Why Choose the DBA Program at 精东影业

Posted on by Leah Sciabarrasi

A Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is a commitment to leading at the highest level. DBA programs are grounded in research and real-world impact, creating a strong foundation for those looking to move from executing strategy to shaping it. The right DBA program should meet you where you are, respect your experience, fit your schedule, and offer you a unique, supportive experience. Here鈥檚 why 精东影业鈥檚 DBA program might be the perfect fit for where you want to be.

What You Can Expect from 精东影业鈥檚 DBA Program

精东影业鈥檚 DBA program is built for working professionals who are ready to lead at the highest level: executives, consultants, industry specialists, and military leaders who bring years of experience and want to sharpen it into something more. The 60-credit program blends eight-week courses, which are primarily online, with two immersive in-person residencies held in , and/or . Students choose two concentrations from seven options, including Data Analytics, Cybersecurity Operations, Healthcare Management, Enterprise Risk Management, Finance and Accounting, Organizational Leadership, and Strategic Sustainability, and have the option of completing either an applied organizational dissertation or a three-paper research model. With three start dates per year and the flexibility to take one or two courses per term, you can finish in as little as two years without putting your career on hold.

Benefits of 精东影业鈥檚 DBA Program

精东影业鈥檚 Doctor of Business Administration program is designed to support students all the way through to successful completion. From flexible course scheduling to hands-on residency experiences, here鈥檚 what sets this program apart.

Designed for Senior Managers and Executives

With eight-week online courses, three start dates per year, and the option to take one or two courses per term, 精东影业鈥檚 DBA program fits around your schedule rather than demanding you fit around it. A dedicated faculty mentor and academic advisor are assigned from day one, ensuring you have the guidance and support to balance your professional, academic, and personal commitments throughout the entire program.

Dedicated Dissertation Support from Faculty Mentors

Dissertation support at 精东影业 begins on the first day of the program, when you鈥檙e assigned a faculty mentor who provides research guidance, helps develop your dissertation focus, and often transitions into the role of your dissertation chair. As you progress, a full dissertation committee, including a chair and two additional members, meet with you regularly to keep your research on track. This layered, sustained support system means you鈥檙e never navigating the hardest parts of doctoral work alone.

Industry-Relevant Curriculum

Core courses like Contemporary Business Theory and Application, Strategic Foresight and Strategy Formation, and Marketing for Competitive Advantage give students a rigorous, forward-looking foundation in the disciplines that drive organizational decision-making. Beyond the core, seven concentration options, including Cybersecurity Operations, Data Analytics, Enterprise Risk Management, Finance and Accounting, Healthcare Management, Organizational Leadership, and Strategic Sustainability, allow students to go deep into the areas most relevant to their industries and career goals. This combination ensures graduates are equipped to anticipate and shape what comes next.

High-Impact, Immersive Residencies

The two in-person residencies are among the most distinctive features of 精东影业鈥檚 DBA program. Held in Albany and/or St. Petersburg, each residency is a multiday, structured experience designed to deepen your research skills, advance your dissertation work, and connect you with faculty, peers, and industry leaders. Residency 1 focuses on building your research foundation: developing your problem statement, refining your methodology, and exploring concentration paper strategies. Residency 2 shifts toward execution and defense preparation, with sessions on data analysis, dissertation writing, and presenting your findings with confidence. Both residencies also include networking events, expert speakers, and field experiences that bring your academic work into direct contact with the professional world.

Flexible, Transparent Degree Pathway

精东影业鈥檚 DBA program is designed to give you control over your journey. You can progress at your own pace, taking one or two courses per term, and can transfer in up to 30 credits, reducing time and cost if you have relevant prior graduate work. The fully online course format means you can engage with your studies from anywhere, while residency scheduling offers options across multiple locations and tracks. Concentration choices, dissertation formats, and start dates can all be tailored to your professional goals, and a clear program map ensures you always know exactly where you are and what comes next.

How to Get Started at 精东影业

Getting started begins with meeting a few key requirements: a master鈥檚 degree from an accredited institution, five or more years of professional experience, and a background managing people or projects. Applicants will also submit a CV/resume, a letter of intent, two letters of recommendation, and a short portfolio of professional writing samples.

Choosing a doctoral program is one of the most significant professional decisions you鈥檒l make. 精东影业鈥檚 is built for people who take that decision seriously, experienced leaders who want a program that matches their ambition, respects their time, and delivers real results. If that sounds like you, 精东影业 is ready when you are.

Education Revolution: Dr. Brian Allen of 精东影业 on Innovative Approaches That Are Transforming Education

Posted on by Brian Allen

Brian Allen, dean of 精东影业’s School of Business, was interviewed by Authority Magazine for an article titled “Education Revolution: Dr. Brian Allen of 精东影业 on Innovative Approaches That Are Transforming Education.” In the article, Allen discusses his academic and professional journey, 精东影业’s innovative approach to higher education, and the opportunities available to students through 精东影业’s School of Business, including the new Doctor of Business Education (DBA) program.

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Career Spotlight: Cybersecurity Analyst

Posted on by 精东影业 Staff

What Is a Cybersecurity Analyst?

A cybersecurity analyst protects organizations鈥� computers, digital networks, and data from a variety of threats. They watch out for anything unusual that could signal a security breach, investigate suspicious activity, and put protections in place. Cybersecurity analysts look for vulnerabilities, make sure threat detection security protocols are up to date, and educate others on safe practices. They are indispensable in protecting confidential information, maintaining data integrity, and reducing cyberthreat risks.

What Does a Cybersecurity Analyst Do?

The skills you need to thrive in cybersecurity combine technical expertise with trained vigilance and a commitment to staying ahead of threat actors and their methods. You will be working with basic programming, networks, operating systems, firewalls, encryption technologies, and emerging AI cybersecurity tools. Cloud security is a growing area for cybersecurity analyst positions, and analytical thinking, attention to detail, and the ability to handle pressure are highly valued traits.

In this role, you鈥檒l typically be responsible for:

  • Watching for unusual activity
  • Responding and documenting suspicious activity
  • Investigating security incidents
  • Putting protections in place to stop attacks
  • Contributing to the maintenance of cybersecurity frameworks
  • Pen testing systems to find weaknesses before attackers can take advantage of them
  • Updating security threat detection and prevention software and protocols
  • Creating reports and recommending improvements
  • Teaching employees how to follow safe security practices
  • Staying up to date on the latest threats, technologies, and frameworks

What Is the Job Outlook for Cybersecurity Analysts?

Employment in this field is growing faster than in many other career paths. to be around 29% between 2024 and 2034, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. There to meet the demand, making high-paying jobs more common. The BLS puts the median annual salary in this job category at just under $125,000 a year.

Earn Your Cybersecurity Degree at 精东影业

Getting a start as a cybersecurity analyst and advancing your career in the field requires the right education. A good program will give you the foundation you need in technology, networks, systems, and threat detection.

Yet, it isn鈥檛 just about getting a degree. It鈥檚 about earning one that signals to employers that you have the right training to perform at the highest level.

精东影业 is recognized as a . 精东影业鈥檚 BS in Cybersecurity program meets the rigorous academic requirements set by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security in preparing you to protect systems, data, and communications.

The degree is offered fully online so that you can manage your education along with your job and other responsibilities.

Florida residents have the option of taking advantage of our hybrid program at our location in St. Petersburg, Florida. St. Petersburg is a rapidly growing center for cybersecurity innovation and employment, near some of our nation鈥檚 most sensitive military intelligence sites, leading technology firms, and health care organizations. In this format, you鈥檒l receive hands-on training, in-person experiences, and realistic labs, in addition to the online component that has long been the heart of this degree program.

Whether you choose the 100% online option or the hybrid format, we support you with extensive career services. From career planning, job search tools, and recruiting events to professional development opportunities, 精东影业 delivers exceptional value beyond your degree. The bachelor鈥檚 program is also an ideal start if you eventually want to pursue your master鈥檚 degree in cybersecurity.

Exciting employment pathways and well-paying work make a career as a cybersecurity analyst an attractive one. And with its flexible learning options and curriculum, 精东影业鈥檚 BS in Cybersecurity program prepares you to start work in this role with confidence and opportunities for advancement.

How to Optimize Your Cover Letter and Resume with Keywords

Posted on by Camille Dumont

Keywords are often treated as a technical requirement, but they serve a practical purpose. They are the terms employers use to define roles and evaluate candidates across job descriptions and hiring systems. If your resume and cover letter do not reflect that language clearly, your experience can be overlooked. Using resume keywords effectively is not about adding more words. It鈥檚 about choosing the right words to describe your experience so employers can quickly understand your fit during a job聽search.

Cover Letter and Resume Keywords

Your resume and cover letter serve different purposes, but both rely on the same underlying language. Resume keywords are specific words or phrases that describe the skills, tools, and responsibilities required for a role. Employers use these terms to define expectations, and applicant tracking systems use them to sort and rank applications before a recruiter reviews聽them.

For example, a business role may include 鈥渄ata analysis,鈥� 鈥渞eporting,鈥� and 鈥減rocess improvement,鈥� whereas a health care role may include 鈥減atient care,鈥� 鈥渃linical documentation,鈥� and 鈥渃are coordination.鈥� These keywords reflect how work is performed in that field and signal what employers expect from聽candidates.

Resume keywords matter because they help applicant tracking systems identify relevant candidates and allow hiring managers to quickly assess alignment. Your cover letter should reinforce those keywords by showing how you have applied them in a specific situation. If a keyword is not supported with clear evidence from your experience, it creates a gap between what you claim and what you can聽demonstrate.

Optimizing with the Best Keywords

Optimizing your resume and cover letter starts with identifying keywords that reflect your target role and then confirming they match your聽experience.

Review multiple job postings within the same聽occupation:

  • Similar roles use similar resume聽keywords.
  • For example, project coordinator roles often include 鈥渟cheduling,鈥� 鈥渂udget tracking,鈥� and 鈥渟takeholder聽communication.鈥�
  • These patterns show how employers define the聽role.

Keep a running list of聽keywords:

  • Save commonly used terms across roles in your聽field.
  • Group them into categories such as technical skills and interpersonal聽skills.
  • This saves time and creates consistency across your job聽search.

Understand the difference between keyword聽types:

  • Hard skills are technical and measurable, such as 鈥渄ata analysis,鈥� 鈥淓xcel,鈥� or 鈥減atient聽documentation.鈥�
  • Soft skills describe how you work, such as 鈥渃ommunication,鈥� 鈥渢eam collaboration,鈥� or 鈥減roblem聽solving.鈥�

Validate keywords before using聽them:

  • Only include resume keywords that accurately reflect your聽experience.
  • Use the same language as the job description when it accurately reflects your聽experience.
  • Avoid substituting similar terms, as different wording may not be interpreted the same聽way.
  • Be prepared to explain each keyword with a specific聽example.

Use resume keywords with聽context:

  • Do not list keywords without showing how they were聽applied.
  • Pair each keyword with a specific action or聽outcome.
  • Example: 鈥淎nalyzed monthly sales data to identify trends and improve forecasting聽accuracy.鈥�

This demonstrates the keyword 鈥渄ata analysis鈥� by showing how it was applied rather than simply stating聽it.

Use your cover letter to reinforce聽keywords:

  • Select one or two key terms and explain how you applied them in a specific聽situation.
  • Focus on why the experience matters and how it connects to the聽role.
  • Use the same language as your resume but provide additional detail rather than repeat聽it.

Strong resume keywords improve visibility, but accuracy and clarity are what make them effective. When your resume demonstrates the skill and your cover letter explains how it applies to the role, your application becomes clearer and more credible during a job聽search.

6 tips for how to use resume keywords in your job search

Level Up the Education Section of Your Resume with 精东影业

Your education section can do more than list a degree. It can reinforce your experience by highlighting relevant coursework, certifications, and applied learning that connect to your target聽role.

When structured intentionally, this section reinforces the skills and knowledge already presented throughout your resume. For example, coursework in data analytics, project management, or health care systems can strengthen how you present your experience when it is clearly tied to what you have done or are prepared to聽do.

精东影业鈥檚 career-focused programs are designed with workforce relevance in mind. That makes it easier to translate what you have learned into language that aligns with employer聽expectations.

精东影业 also offers Career Readiness resources to help you refine your resume, strengthen your cover letter, and approach your job search with a clear and focused聽strategy.