Pursuing M.B.A. Helped Alumna Land Budget Analyst Position with Allegheny County Wednesday, November 26, 2014
Meet Kasey Betush
Job title: Budget Analyst
Employer: Allegheny County Emergency Services/Region 13
Degrees earned: M.B.A., international business concentration, Point Park University and B.S. in business management and political science, University of Pittsburgh
Graduated: 2013 and 2007
Hometown and current residence: Sarver, Pa.
High School: Freeport Senior High School
Hobbies/interests: Reading, traveling, going to the theatre and running
How did your M.B.A. play a role in helping you become a budget analyst for Allegheny County?
When I first applied for the position I was in the process of obtaining my degree and the interview panel was impressed that I was continuing my education. Having my M.B.A. degree has equipped me with the skills I need to perform my daily duties and has prepared me for challenges that may arise. It has also helped me communicate effectively with the numerous committees and staff members I deal with on a daily basis.
What factors made you select Point Park for graduate school?
The main reason I chose Point Park was for the delivery formats offered. I loved that Point Park recognized that not all management is the same and presented classes that piqued my interest and encouraged me to grow.
What were some of your favorite M.B.A. classes and why?
Accounting. I loved Professor Maharaja. My favorite part of his class was our final presentation. Each group had to present for 15-20 minutes on a business plan we created. The catch was we were only allowed to use five slides with no more than 20 words on a slide. My first thought was, "There is no way this can be done. How can someone possibly give a presentation that long with so little?" However, Professor Maharaja was right! He really showed me how sometimes less is actually more. I will never forget that.
Also, I genuinely enjoyed my Legal Environment for Business class with Instructor Lisa DiCerbo. She really made the class interesting for me! She changed my perception by bringing a subject that I thought would be dry to life.
What advice do you have for individuals considering going back to school for a graduate degree?
It can be very intimidating going back to school, especially if you have been done for a while. It's not easy, but it is most certainly worth it! Winston Churchill said, "Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts." You are taking on a task that many individuals would not, so allow yourself the time to adjust and go at your own pace. Each experience is individual, and you shouldn't measure yourself against others. Most importantly, enjoy it.
What are your career goals?
I want to continue my journey with grants management. The possibilities are endless in this multifaceted field. I have been working with Homeland Security grants for almost three years now and have already learned a tremendous amount but I know I'm just beginning to scratch the surface and that's exciting.
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
I believe relationships are essential in any career. You can learn so much from the people who come before you and even those who come after. Last, but not least, I leave with a quote from Abraham Lincoln: "Whatever you are, be a good one."