Jeff Shafer, Online MBA

By the time Jeff Shafer enrolled at Michigan Ross, his professional and academic journeys were well under way. Jeff had spent nearly six years as a PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) associate, and had nearly completed a law degree at the University of Pennsylvania Law School. However, his education wouldn’t be complete — nor his future career aspirations realized — without an MBA. Pursuing corporate law meant needing to understand the legal and business aspects of the field. Additionally, a business background would help him work more effectively with professional clients. Jeff thus began building upon his undergrad business-administration degree upon applying to Ross. The opportunity was perfect for him, especially since the Online MBA program would allow him to hit the job market more quickly. 

Discovering the Michigan Ross Difference 

Jeff was initially drawn to Michigan Ross due to its academic rigor and strong brand recognition. His positive first impressions were reinforced by chats with multiple Ross students about the OMBA program’s reputation and action-based learning approach. Strong school spirit and a sense of community shone through in every conversation — two things he believed were lacking at other schools. Wolverine sports programs were also a draw, and thus another way to become invested in the university. 

Like many other OMBA students, Jeff continues to balance his studies with family obligations — supporting his marriage, his newborn son, and coordinating a move to New York City. He believed that Ross gave him the best opportunity to tackle life’s growing challenges. Jeff wouldn’t have to choose between supporting his family and earning an MBA, as the curriculum is substantial without being overly demanding.

Once I found out about the program, I spoke to a number of [my now] fellow classmates before I accepted my offer to join. Just hearing about their experiences and about how innovative the program was — and the fact that you were being taught by the same professors as the full-time MBA program, [plus] the fact that you’re still getting that action-based learning part of the curriculum that Ross is so well-known for — really spoke to what I wanted.

Jeff’s acceptance into Ross was a massive relief. Pursuing an MBA has been a long-time goal. Additionally, extracurricular experiences with organizations like InSite really solidified the importance of a business degree. Jeff realized how complementary his degrees would be while pursuing corporate law — his long standing passion. Upon announcing his acceptance, Jeff was immediately encouraged and welcomed by fellow Wolverines on social media. 

“A bunch of people [whom] I didn't even know went to Michigan started saying “Go Blue.” People that I knew already — but I didn’t know went to Michigan for undergrad or graduate school — [made me go] “Oh, wow.” I was beginning to see how widespread the community was, and the alumni base, so it was really cool. Even when I was in the hospital with my wife in preparation for the delivery of our son, one of the doctors came in and [noticed my Michigan laptop logo]. She was like, “Oh, I went there — Go Blue!” It was really cool [to see] how widespread the community is.” 

Jeff joined Michigan Ross during the COVID-19 pandemic. Thankfully, his virtual curriculum has allowed him to stay connected despite that challenge. While he hasn’t yet visited Michigan or Ann Arbor, he looks forward to it when possible to fulfill his residency requirements. The program will allow him to complete this portion of the curriculum according to his preferences. 

Constant communication with administrators, professors, and other students kept Jeff current with program updates. Slack channels and emails make it easy to converse and understand student expectations. 

In the meantime, student projects with companies like the NRP Group have tapped into Jeff’s love for real estate while promoting good teamwork. Through the Living Business Leadership Experience, he was able to help companies brainstorm ideas and implement them at an organizational level. This experience spanned an entire semester. 

Finding Community Early On

Jeff is still in the early stages of the OMBA program, yet has focused on getting to know his peers. He’s found it easy to meet classmates and develop relationships with students he interacts with the most. Clubs and similar groups are fantastic pathways for students to connect and build those relationships. Jeff has befriended many in his cohort, and — through calls and other organized events — has found interaction easy throughout the semester and beyond. 

“[Catch-up calls] are things we try to [have], typically once a quarter...but we also have our own Slack group that we use for more consistent communication — whether we’re talking about classwork, what classes we plan on taking for the next semester, or whether we’re talking about the NBA playoffs…”

Students aren’t pressured to maintain social connections within the OMBA program, but opportunities are plentiful. Accordingly, Jeff described it as a “choose your own adventure,” meaning that you can connect as much as you choose to. He pointed to game nights, happy hours, group chats, and Slack as popular social outlets. “People have gotten really creative just to create this sense of community, with Slack being a home base,” Jeff shared. He also said it’s fairly easy to connect with peers from different time zones. 

Finding Purpose in Encouraging Others

In addition to pursuing his MBA, Jeff aims to publish a book this year called “Black Excellence.” His newborn son has been a key inspiration for his book, as he hopes his book will serve as a guidebook while he grows up — giving him confidence, sparking his imagination, and proving how business can teach valuable life lessons. 

Jeff is also motivated by a strong belief that business’ lasting narrative can be a positive one — written by diverse professionals who believe in something bigger than themselves. He understands from personal experience how one person’s success can elevate others. Accordingly, business is a pathway through which professionals can give back to those around them. Jeff himself mentioned just how integral the support of those around him has been in achieving his goals. 

Jeff is excited about publishing his book and is grateful for the lessons he learned in his marketing class that aided him in promoting his book. He’s also appreciative of the immense encouragement he has received from Michigan Ross professors who are published authors—including many who have pre-ordered his book. 

A Nugget of Wisdom for Incoming Students

Prospective students are often wondering what life might be like at Ross. Jeff recommends making an effort to contact alumni or those currently in the OMBA program. Setting up calls, chats, or email threads can help people decide if Ross is a good match. Conversations with students who had families and varied backgrounds ultimately helped steer Jeff’s enrollment decision. Members of the Michigan Ross community are eager to share their experiences; all you need to do is ask.