With rising concern for our environment and our people, many corporations are being held accountable for the impact they have on our planet. Emerging careers such as corporate sustainability and environmental finance have created a new market with companies looking to hire people with backgrounds in both business and environmental management. We’re proud to offer the MSEM-MBA dual degree that qualifies as a STEM degree and offers a saving of 12 units. Currently, we have four continuing MSEM students beginning the MBA program this Fall. We got to have a Q&A session with second-year MSEM, first-year MBA student, Elijah Ashiagbor, to hear about what led him into both programs and what he hopes to accomplish after graduation.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and why you chose the dual degree program?
I’m from Ghana in West Africa. Graduated from Arizona State University with a BS in Management. I served in the US Naval Aviation from 2011- 2015 and did tours to the Middle East and Asia. I have over 20 years of work experience in the financial service, foodservice and defense contractor industries. I decided to pursue the MSEM-MBA dual degree as a stepping stone in switching careers and following my passion to start a solid waste management and recycling business.
What about the MSEM-MBA program interests you? And what are you hoping to gain from the dual degree?
I have always had a passion to start a recycling and municipal solid waste management program in Ghana. I believe the MSEM program gives me the foundational knowledge about this industry and the MBA program will provide the necessary business acumen I need to start the business in a challenging Ghanaian market.
What are some classes you’re looking forward to taking this fall in both programs?
I’m excited about taking Advanced GIS in the MSEM program. This will enable me to get the GIS certificate. Also, the MSEM courses have given me the necessary insight to evaluate business models and financial statements of companies in the recycling and waste management industries which will help me as I begin my MBA. As for the MBA program I’m most looking forward to taking Business Analytics and Financial Management.
What are some of your goals and what do you hope to do after graduating?
My goal is to have a well-thought-out business plan and develop a strong network of USF faculty, students, and alumni by the time I graduate. I believe that a strong network will help me as I navigate starting my own business.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time from classes?
I enjoy both hiking and dedicating my time to volunteer work with non-profit groups like Redwood Empire Food Bank, Farm to Pantry, and Farm to Fight Hunger, all within Sonoma County.
If you’re interested in reading a Master’s Project from a recent MSEM-MBA grad, check out “Between Disclosure and Transparency: Sustainable Sourcing of Minerals in the Electronics Industry” by Henintsoa Rakotoarisaona class of ‘21
If you’d like to learn more about the MSEM-MBA dual degree program, you can find details here.
