Master’s student pivots to new career path with dual MBA/MS-Business Analytics program
JennyLou Spoon discovers possibilities after teaching in the Peace Corps through KU Business master’s degree programs
When COVID-19 unexpectedly ended her time in Indonesia with the Peace Corps, JennyLou Spoon was pushed to explore a new path, one that led her back home to the University of Kansas’ MBA program.
Spoon’s path to pursuing an MBA/Master of Science in business analytics was not linear, but she found that the program at KU was exactly what she was looking for. She discovered growth and success opportunities tailored to her diverse experiences that would equip her with the skills to drive her career forward.
Before making her way to KU, Spoon’s journey began with a strong educational foundation and a passion for helping others. The Topeka native grew up surrounded by educators and aspired to pursue a graduate degree after earning her bachelor’s degree in international studies and public health from American University.
Her interest in international relations and community development led her to the Peace Corps, where she spent seven months teaching English in Indonesia, gaining valuable skills in leadership and adaptability.
However, when the pandemic abruptly ended her time in Indonesia, Spoon found herself back home, seeking her next opportunity. While awaiting the possibility of returning to the Peace Corps, Spoon volunteered with the Red Cross and worked as a full-time substitute teacher, taking on a role that kept schools open and ensured teachers’ safety. This experience further reinforced her desire to continue her education and pursue a career in business.
During her final year as a substitute teacher, Spoon took the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) and applied to the KU School of Business among others, in hopes of pursuing an MBA. She was searching for a program that could provide her with practical skills and accommodate her non-business background.
“What really won me over was that KU’s program is specifically geared toward students without business backgrounds,” Spoon said. “I’m so happy with my decision; it has allowed me to stay close to family while preparing for my future career.”
Spoon began the MBA program in fall 2023, where she completed core courses like SCM 718 Operations and Supply Chain Management and BSAN 810 Statistics and Decision Tools, both of which helped her to rediscover her knack for math and pushed her to explore a dual-enrollment track.
Over the summer, Spoon began a position with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas as the new venture initiatives intern, where she was able to put some of her learning to the test. She didn’t have concrete post-graduation plans yet, so she figured there was no harm in exploring her interests in data analysis the following semester. She then enrolled in the MBA/MS-Business Analytics dual degree program.
The dual degree program allows students to earn both degrees in two years on the Lawrence campus, making it an ideal choice for those looking to expand their business knowledge while diving into the field of data analytics.
“The second semester’s Introduction to Business Analytics course really solidified my interest in adding the BSAN track,” Spoon said. “I talked to the amazing people in the MBA office and found out that doing the dual program would only add an extra semester. They could work with me to extend my financial aid as well. That made the decision a lot easier.”
Beyond the academic structure of the program, Spoon found the program’s community played a crucial role in her success.
“[The program] creates a strong sense of community, especially in our shared lounge space for MBA and MS-BSAN students,” said Spoon. “It’s a comfortable, welcoming space that makes it easier to stay focused and spend time on campus when needed.”
As Spoon approaches her graduation in May, she has secured a full-time position with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas as a business intelligence data scientist, where she plans to apply the skills acquired through both graduate programs to help improve operations within the company.
Spoon says between the coursework, presentation practice and team-based projects of the master’s in business analytics program, she felt confident when applying and interviewing for this position.
“Our discussions around HR, especially the hiring process, helped me understand how to stand out as a candidate,” Spoon said. “The program also offered great networking opportunities and support with resume building. Honestly, just about every part of the program played a role in helping me secure my internship, which was the key first step toward landing this full-time position.”
Overall, Spoon says that despite not having a business background, the programs at the School of Business have provided her with the necessary tools to start her career and understand the work she will be doing.
“Thanks to my unique MS-BSAN background, I feel like there are very few conversations where I won’t have something meaningful to contribute.”
The KU MBA/MS-Business Analytics dual degree program, with both flexibility and support for anyone looking to enhance their business skills, can help take professional journeys to new heights.
“If I had to do it all over again, I’d absolutely choose the same path at KU,” Spoon said. “The experiences, connections and opportunities I’ve had here have really shaped where I’m headed, and I’m grateful for that.”
Learn more about the MBA/MS-Business Analytics dual degree program at business.ku.edu/mba-ms-bsan. Registration is open for an MBA and Master of Science programs virtual info session on May 8.
By Lauryn Zebrowski
