Ventures Fall 2017 | Page 23

ALUMNUS PROFILE

Finding a Home in the Stevenson Community

Already working as a technical recruiter , Adrian Russo ( business and technology management ’ 15M ) decided to pursue a master ’ s degree because he wanted to gain a better understanding of the business professionals with whom he worked . He originally attended a well-known distance learning university but after a semester of taking a computer science course , Russo felt that there was no connection with his faculty or fellow students and was uncomfortable with the method of instruction . After some research , he chose Stevenson .
“ I could tell that the Business and Technology Management program was different as early as the first open house ,” Russo says . “ The faculty took time to understand my goals and assisted me in selecting a program that matched my desired outcome . They took care to make sure that I felt comfortable with my education plan and had the actual professors who would be teaching me give their advice . The contrast in the level of engagement between the previous university and Stevenson was stark .”
Russo considers Stevenson ’ s curriculum to be highly relevant with coursework that extended well beyond what he had expected . “ My professors were very well qualified and possessed extensive academic and real-world experience . For example , Information Technology Law was taught by an attorney who practices technology transfer and eDiscovery law ,” he says . “ My professor for Enterprise Application Development quite literally held every development certification offered by Microsoft . The faculty at Stevenson is world-class and second to none .”
In fact , his Stevenson education changed Russo ’ s career goals . Today , he owns a business and consults
Adrian Russo ’ 15M
on the technical side of talent acquisition . “ I develop applications and architect recruiting solutions ,” he explains . “ My studies at Stevenson really changed the way I approach HR and talent acquisition .”
Another difference between Stevenson online programs and those at other institutions ? That it actually feels like a community , Russo notes . “ I still keep in contact with classmates , professors , advisors , and staff . Everyone genuinely cares for each other . It is evident during school activities , whether in an online environment or a campus event .
“ Stevenson is the type university that you just want to be a part of . I formed real connections with classmates and professors and enjoy being a part of the SU community .”
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