A story of global growth

Reuben Chirikure didn’t come to Central Michigan University just to earn an MBA. He came to challenge himself and to see the world differently.

“I wanted to expand my perspective beyond what I had already experienced academically and professionally,” he said. “After completing my undergraduate studies in accounting and gaining work experience in finance, I felt ready for a challenge that would help me grow globally.”

That mindset led him from Zimbabwe to CMU’s College of Business Administration, where he found the balance, he was looking for: strong academics, real-world application, and a community that supports growth.

“I chose Central Michigan University because of the strong reputation of the MBA program and the supportive community I sensed from the start,” he said. “The College of Business Administration stood out because it combines rigorous academics with practical experiences, which aligned with my goals in finance and analytics.”

Adjusting to a new environment and a Michigan winter

Like many international students, Chirikure’s transition came with challenges; some expected some not.

“One of the biggest adjustments was adapting to a new environment, especially the cold Michigan weather, which was very different from what I had experienced before,” he said. “Adjusting to winter, learning how to prepare for it to function in it day to day, simply, was an experience in itself.”

Beyond the weather, he also adapted to a different academic culture, one that emphasizes participation, collaboration, and engagement.

“Balancing those changes while settling into a new country requires adaptability,” he said.

What made the difference was the support he found early on.

“Support came from many places, the International Student and Scholar Services unit, classmates, faculty, and fellow students,” he said. “Even something as simple as getting advice from peers on preparing for winter made me feel welcomed.”

Turning data into decisions

Inside the classroom, Chirikure found opportunities to apply his finance background in meaningful ways, especially through courses that emphasized real-world problem-solving.

Two courses shaped his experience: Financial Modeling and Advanced Financial Statement Analysis.

“In Financial Modeling, we worked with real-world data to build financial models for major companies, evaluate scenarios, and support decision-making,” he said. “That strengthened my skills in valuation, forecasting, and using analysis to support concrete business decisions.”

That technical foundation was reinforced through deeper analysis.

“Advanced Financial Statement Analysis deepened that foundation by helping me assess financial health, identify risks, and interpret performance beyond the numbers,” he said.

Outside the classroom, his role as a student assistant in the College of Business Administration’s Marketing and Communications office added another dimension to his skillset.

“Working under [CBA Director of Marketing and Communication] Alisha Draper has helped me develop communication and professional writing skills that complement my technical finance background,” he said. “Through her mentorship, I’ve learned how to communicate ideas clearly and tailor messages to different audiences.”

Applying skills in high-stakes environments

For Chirikure, learning goes beyond coursework. One of his most impactful experiences came through The Project™ 2026 Collegiate Competition.

“I worked with a multidisciplinary team on a simulated $50 million healthcare expansion project for West Michigan Health Partners,” he said. “What made the experience especially valuable was applying project management, problem-solving, and stakeholder thinking to a complex real-world case.”

The experience pushed him to think differently.

“It challenged me to think strategically, collaborate under pressure, and approach decisions from both financial and operational perspectives,” he said.

His academic background reinforced his interest in solving complex business problems.

Leadership beyond the classroom

Chirikure has also taken on leadership roles across campus, applying his finance skills in new ways. As treasurer of the CMU Chess Club, he gained hands-on experience managing budgets and supporting operations.

“Serving in a leadership role has given me practical experience in budgeting, financial oversight, planning, and organizational leadership,” he said.

He’s also been active in organizations like Beta Alpha Psi and the CMU Project Management Chapter, experiences that helped him build both technical and professional confidence.

“Through those organizations, I’ve gained exposure to peer learning, professional networking, and leadership-oriented experiences,” he said.

Looking ahead: Finance, strategy, and growth

Chirikure’s long-term goals are grounded in both technical expertise and strategic thinking.

“My goal is to build a career in finance, particularly in financial analysis, corporate finance, or investment-related work, with a long-term interest in strategic finance and mergers and acquisitions,” he said.

He also plans to pursue his CPA designation as part of that journey.

“My time in the CBA has helped prepare me by strengthening both technical and professional skills,” he said. “Together, those experiences have prepared me not only to analyze decisions, but also to communicate and support them effectively.”

That preparation is shaped not only by coursework and experience, but by perspective. As an international student, Chirikure sees his background as a strength that extends beyond the classroom.

“I’d like people to recognize that international students often bring more than academic preparation,” he said. “We bring adaptability, resilience, and a global perspective shaped by navigating different systems and cultures.”

Those experiences, he said, translate directly into business—informing how problems are approached, decisions are made, and teams work together.

Advice for future students

Looking back, Chirikure’s advice is simple but direct.

“Be proactive and get involved early,” he said. “Some of the most valuable parts of my experience have come outside the classroom.”

And just as important: “Don’t underestimate what your perspective adds,” he said. “Your background is a strength, bring it into the classroom, conversations, and opportunities you pursue.”

Because for Chirikure, growth didn’t come from staying comfortable; it came from stepping into something new and making the most of it.