Real goals, real flexibility, real results

When Brandon Diebolt ’20 began looking at graduate programs, he wasn’t chasing a title—he was building a foundation. With a background in accounting and finance, and a growing interest in logistics and operations, Diebolt sought a program that would help him become a well-rounded professional, ready to lead wherever opportunity took him. 

“I was looking for something that would give me more confidence in those areas that I hadn't touched in a long time or didn't have a lot of experience with,” he said. “I was kind of at that point where I was like, how do I keep improving myself?” 

Now serving as the director of finance for Child and Family Charities in Lansing, Michigan, Diebolt works across departments and sees the complexity of nonprofit decision-making firsthand. 

“You’re working with people that don’t necessarily come from a finance background,” he said. “You might not have perfect information, and then you have to explain why. You’re trying to make good decisions, ethical decisions.” 

That real-world focus is central to CMU’s online MBA program. From case studies and projects to faculty who bring industry experience into the classroom, students gain more than knowledge—they gain practical tools and connections that accelerate their careers. 

“CMU’s MBA program prepares our graduates to tackle multidimensional challenges,” said MBA program director Aparna Lhila. “For example, our capstone simulation requires students to take a 360-degree view of the company and devise strategies based on how finance, accounting, marketing and other functions interconnect. We also know that today’s MBA students are balancing jobs, caregiving, and more—so our flexible format allows them to fit school into their lives, including the option to take a break when life happens.” 

For Leah Moskovitz ’21, flexibility was key. 

“It was structured in a way that worked for me,” she said. “It was online, it was flexible, and it allowed me to take classes at my own pace. I felt like I could still work and do other things.” 

The format didn’t mean students were left to figure it out alone, either. 

“The professors were incredibly helpful and responsive,” Moskovitz added. “Any time I had a question or concern, they were willing to work with me. It was a very supportive environment.” 

Designed to meet professionals where they are, CMU’s MBA offers online options that make it possible to advance without putting life on hold. Whether students are seeking to move up, switch paths, or simply grow in their current role, the program gives them room to define—and pursue—their goals. 

“You’ve got to trust the process,” Diebolt said. “You don’t need to compare yourself to others—everyone has their own path.” 

And for anyone wondering if now is the right time? 

“There’s always going to be something going on in your life,” he said. “But if you’re ready to do it, I would recommend it to anybody.” 

Ready to set your own pace and pursue your goals with confidence? Learn more and get started today.