Business Owner, Grad Student Enhancing Her Entrepreneurial Skills Through MBA Program

Meet Sara Pilarski

Job Title & Employer: Co-Owner, Bruster’s Real Ice Cream in Gibsonia
Major/Program: M.B.A.
Minor: MBA Concentration: Management
Graduation: April 2019
College Activities: Graduate assistant for the Rowland School of Business
Scholarships: Graduate assistantship
Hometown: Hampton Township, Pa.
High School: Hampton High School
Now Living In: Gibsonia, Pa.
Hobbies & Interests: Reading, writing, playing sports, especially basketball, and spending time with my family and friends

"Point Park’s MBA program allows students to explore outside of the classroom environment with assignments and projects that delve into applicable and current business topics and events. The ability to apply business theory to current business ventures allows students to think creatively and strengthen their critical thinking and teamwork skills, all of which are needed to be a successful entrepreneur."

Sara Pilarski

As a small business owner, what factors made you choose Point Park University for graduate school?

I chose Point Park University for graduate school because of its prime location in the heart of Downtown Pittsburgh while also being a short commute from my store. Point Park classes offered me the flexibility to be a commuter without feeling overwhelmed by being a graduate assistant, business owner and full-time student.

How have your MBA classes helped you in the work you do?

The MBA classes have allowed me to apply business theories in real time. I am able to implement concepts and ideas within my store, and use class projects and assignments as an opportunity to gain feedback from my professors and peers on new ideas I wish to instate.

In what ways have our faculty impacted you?

Point Park faculty are engaging, approachable and knowledgeable, which has allowed me to connect with them on both a professional and personal level. They genuinely care about my academic and professional success which has allowed me to grow academically, professionally and personally. Point Park's faculty has afforded me the opportunity to create an academic environment catered to my career goals and aspirations. They are always open to me discussing my business ideas and often provide guidance based upon their professional experiences.

How do you think our MBA program helps entrepreneurs?

Point Park’s MBA program allows students to explore outside of the classroom environment with assignments and projects that delve into applicable and current business topics and events. The ability to apply business theory to current business ventures allows students to think creatively and strengthen their critical thinking and teamwork skills, all of which are needed to be a successful entrepreneur.

What are your career goals?

My hope is to continue to own and operate a variety of businesses. Ideally, I'd like to find a way to turn my love for sports, coffee and baking into three separate business ventures. My plan is to continue to work hard and be open to all career possibilities, since you never know what business venture you may fall in love with. Ultimately, my career goal is to find happiness in my job, whatever that may be, although attaining great wealth would not be bad either!

Business Owner, Grad Student Enhancing Her Entrepreneurial Skills Through MBA Program Student Profile