Aaron’s Path to Success: How the College of Business MBA Program Shaped a Career in Mental Health

When Aaron embarked on his academic journey at Texas A&M University-Commerce in 2020, he sought more than just a degree—he was searching for a transformative experience that would open doors to new career opportunities.

Today, as the director of Marketing and Operations at Aletheia Therapy, Aaron reflects on how the MBA program at the College of Business provided the foundation for his success, even as his career path led him into the mental health field.

“My academic journey at A&M-Commerce began after I graduated with a humanities degree from a small college in Dallas,” Aaron said. “I knew I needed to enhance my resume, and the College of Business' MBA program offered the perfect combination of remote learning, active student engagement, and supportive professors who genuinely cared about my success.”

He continued, “The program was an ideal fit, especially during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Aaron initially pursued an MBA with the goal of establishing a career in corporate management. The program equipped him with essential business acumen, which proved invaluable in his early role as an assistant to the VP of Finance. “The knowledge I gained in the classroom was directly applicable to my work, allowing me to excel in real-world situations,” he noted.

However, Aaron’s career path took an unexpected turn when he moved into the mental health field, where he now applies his business management expertise to optimize workflows and guide practice operations at Aletheia Therapy.

“My MBA has been instrumental in my role as director of Marketing and Operations. I leverage the skills I learned at TAMUC to help other mental health professionals refine their businesses and expand their reach into corporate America,” Aaron shared.

Reflecting on his time at the College of Business, Aaron highlighted the responsiveness of the faculty and the competitive tuition as key factors that drew him.

“The faculty's willingness to answer questions and the program’s affordability were crucial, especially during the uncertainty of the pandemic,” Aaron said. “The sense of community fostered through collaborative class projects and alumni mixers also played a significant role in my professional development.”

Dr. Alex Williams, department head and associate professor of Management, commended Aaron's journey, stating, “Aaron’s success is a testament to the versatility and real-world applicability of our MBA program. We are proud of his achievements and the impact he is making in the mental health field. His story is a powerful example of how the skills and knowledge gained at TAMUC can be applied across diverse industries.”

To prospective students considering the College of Business, Aaron's valuable advice is, “Focus on applying classroom knowledge to real-world situations. Seek internships or part-time jobs to gain practical experience and build a portfolio of business projects to enhance your job prospects. Above all, prioritize your mental health—balancing studies with self-care is crucial for long-term success.”