Student Spotlight

Boris Pettit

Wesley Chapel, FL

Where Flexibility Fuels the Future

Boris Pettit (MBA expected '25, BBA '23) began his educational journey with the University of Management and Technology (UMT) when his coworker at the United States Air Force and good friend, Cristina Bennett, recommended the school and highlighted the self-paced structure of the programs. Boris was looking for a university that would help him prepare for retirement and the transition to civilian life without compromising any present aspect of his life; he found that UMT was just what he was looking for. "Cristina was already enrolled at UMT and had great things to say about the experience," Boris recalled. "She emphasized how flexible and self-paced the programs were, which really stood out to me as someone juggling multiple commitments."

Flexibility was the key. Boris needed an educational institution that could accommodate his busy schedule. The self-paced aspect particularly appealed to him, as it allows individuals with demanding jobs to balance work, family, and education successfully. "I was able to study at my own speed while still dedicating enough time to other commitments in my life," he shared.

As the completion of his MBA degree approaches, Boris believes his degrees will significantly impact and change his life and career. "I believe my degrees will provide me with the knowledge and skills to advance my professional journey," Boris expressed. "With the knowledge I learned in both programs, I will be able to enhance my qualifications, which will make me more competitive in the job market. Hopefully it opens more career opportunities, too." He also believes that his academic achievements will boost his confidence and act as a steppingstone towards achieving his long-term career goals.

One of the most rewarding aspects of his UMT experience has been the practical, relevant curriculum. "The courses are well-structured and provide real-world applications, equipping me with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in my career while making my educational journey both engaging and rewarding." He applied this learning directly to his role in the Air Force, working on a project focused on optimizing operational processes. "By implementing the management and analytical skills I acquired through my coursework, I not only improved the project efficiency within my team but also demonstrated the practical application of my studies."

His educational journey wasn't without its obstacles. To stay on track, Boris developed strong time-management strategies and leaned into UMT's supportive learning community. "I developed a structured schedule by mapping out my days, setting priorities, and finding study windows that worked around my schedule – like early mornings or late evenings," he explained, "I also reached out to my professors and peers whenever I needed assistance or clarification on course material. The supportive community at UMT provided guidance and encouragement, which helped me stay motivated." To manage stress, he also incorporated regular physical activity and mindfulness into his routine.

While studying at UMT, Boris praised the flexibility of the programs, the practical and relevant curriculum, and the supportive faculty and community of students. "Engaging with the faculty and a diverse group of peers has provided me with valuable insights and connections," Boris explained.

With the completion of his master's degree in sight, Boris is deeply thankful for his experience at UMT. "I have thoroughly enjoyed my educational journey with UMT and wholeheartedly recommend their programs," he expressed. "Attending UMT has been instrumental in preparing me to achieve my personal and professional goals as I transition from military to civilian life seamlessly. The experience allowed me to learn and gain the confidence needed to embark on a new chapter without missing a beat."

"At UMT, I never felt like I was going through this journey alone—the encouragement from both faculty and fellow students created a strong sense of community that lifted me through every challenge and reminded me that success is always within reach. Through every course, I not only gained practical knowledge, but also the confidence to move forward with purpose and clarity."


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