Drew Hilger
Drew Hilger is a student in the Finance and Marketing Program at SVSU. He eventually wants to work in the insurance industry, where a wide variety of skills can be put to work. Before he does this, he wants to continue his education, including his MBA. “I am hoping my studies, combined with extra-curricular experiences, will provide me with a competitive edge in the job market.”
SVSU was an ideal choice for Drew from the start. The small class size and well-rounded curriculum were two requirements of Drew’s that SVSU filled. “I couldn’t see myself going to a large university to be lectured about interacting with people professionally (business is rarely conducted in lecture format). I wanted more of a ‘learn by doing environment’ and SVSU provided that.”
Drew has received a great education thus far. “SVSU’s business program offers students a broad base of knowledge before you can embark on your concentration. Every general education course I have taken can be applied in business. The Communications courses, as well as English courses, that I have taken have been the most beneficial. Most people do not realize how important these skills are. Good communication skills are the link between your technical skills and the business world.”
Faculty student interaction is so important, and SVSU provides this. Drew feels that working with the faculty gives students experiences much like they will find in the business world. “A professor told me this and I agree with him, ‘An SVSU student may have trouble finding a job (compared to BIG name universities), but once they do they will have no trouble becoming the boss.’ The opportunity to work with people of all ages in a classroom setting is unique and this professor feels it will give students a leg up on future coworkers.”
Internships are a very important aspect of any business degree and Drew was lucky to obtain a great one. “I worked at Frankenmuth Mutual Insurance Company and it was a first class experience. I gained exposure in several departments. This internship allowed me to put my broad base of knowledge, gained at SVSU, to work.” On top of this great internship which provided Drew with essential skills, he also is the chairman of the Student Advisory Council for the College of Business and Management. Being the chairman has given Drew the opportunity to hone his communication and management skills.
When asked about the opportunities available to Business graduates from SVSU, Drew responded with, “Every business needs accountants, marketing staff, financing, management, etc. so the job outlook will always be there. While the economy in Michigan is less than stellar, making the job market a challenge, professors and other faculty have developed relationships with business leaders providing a link to local businesses. Developing relationships with your professors can be beneficial in the job search. Additionally, SVSU’s growth has put the university on the map, giving more credibility to your future degree.”