Building knowledge for long-term growth

For Michael Skrzypek '25, pursuing his MBA in Finance at Central Michigan University was about more than earning another credential—it was a strategic investment in his professional growth.

“I wanted to advance my knowledge and my value in the job market,” Skrzypek said. “I chose to start again in 2023 because my professional experience was progressing nicely, and I wanted to continue building my skillset.”

When researching graduate programs, Skrzypek was drawn to CMU’s strong reputation. “Central Michigan was ranked among the top schools in Michigan, and I had heard good things from other undergraduate alumni,” he said.

Applying classroom learning to real-world finance

As a Senior Financial Planning & Analysis Manager, Skrzypek said the MBA program gave him a chance to “zoom out” and think more strategically.

“Oftentimes, we get stuck in a lower-level, less strategic view within our jobs,” he said. “Going back to learn more strategic corporate finance outside of my organization helped me continue to look at wider corporate financial strategy.”

He added that earning an MBA—and maintaining a perfect GPA—has also helped elevate how others see his professional capabilities. “Having the MBA qualification, especially with a solid GPA, helps with how people perceive you,” he said. “On the job market and within my current company it garners respect and is proven knowledge and discipline.”

Balancing work, school, and life

Completing his degree while working full-time came with its challenges. “During exams, group projects, overlapping semesters, or heavy workload weeks, it was extremely tough,” Skrzypek said. “Certain things I would do in my free time were cut back significantly, but for a worthy investment.”

To manage it all, he relied on a well-structured system. “Schedule, schedule, schedule,” he said. “My Outlook calendar became a sea of light blue boxes stacked on one another.”

He also found that the right environment—and the right soundtrack—made a difference. “Listening to music with noise cancellation while working also helped. A distraction could easily derail a thought process for several minutes, and there was not much time to spare.”

Finding connection and motivation

Despite the demands of an online program, Skrzypek built meaningful relationships along the way. “I have spoken with several professors and peers outside of class and connected on LinkedIn,” he said. “I am happy to expand my network.”

When the workload felt heavy, he motivated himself with small rewards. “Goals and rewards, gamifying the work [kept me motivated],” he said. “[I would] tell myself, after this exam, I’m going to order delivery from a restaurant I enjoy or thinking of something fun to do afterward as a reward for completion.”

Advice for future adult learners

For professionals considering a return to school, Skrzypek’s advice is simple: “Do it. It will be challenging, but the time will go quickly and investing in yourself is never foolish,” he said.

His strategies for success include managing time proactively and leading when needed. “Don’t wait until the last minute on anything,” he said. “If you’re in a group, reach out right away, start scheduling check-ins or deadlines. Don’t be afraid to take the lead.”

What's next for Skrzypek?

Now that he has completed his MBA, Skrzypek is focused on advancing in his current role while exploring future opportunities. “I don’t think a Ph.D. is anywhere in the near future,” he said. “I’m working on advancing in my current role and casually testing the waters of the external job market. I have also considered studying for a CFA at some point.”

When reflecting on his experience, he takes the most pride in his academic achievement. “Through high school and undergrad, I had never put in the effort,” he said. “I’ll be proud of myself forever that I achieved a 4.0 for the entire MBA program.”