Ryan Gorman
National Sales Manager
Tri-Source Title Agency
M.S. in Marketing & Communication Student

Why did you choose Franklin University?
I really liked the Marketing & Communication Program. I did a lot of research before choosing it, and was considering getting my MBA. But the MCM Program was more suited to my strengths and ambitions.

Why did you decide to return to college?
After I earned my bachelor’s degree, I worked for a year in Cleveland, and then spent a year playing professional basketball in Ireland. It was wonderful — a real eye-opening experience that resonated with me on a lot of levels. After I returned to the states and got back into the professional world, I realized that I wanted to tap into parts of myself that I discovered overseas; to be ready for new opportunities. It just made sense to get more knowledge and be better prepared for what's to come.

What kind of commitments did you have in addition to school?
I’m in a great entrepreneurial environment with a couple different businesses, for which I have a great deal of responsibility. It can be pretty demanding and time consuming, but I genuinely enjoy the challenges.

How did you feel about being an adult student?
It’s completely different than going to college as a traditional student. As an undergrad at a small private school, I had a great experience playing basketball, getting an excellent education and learning a lot about growing up. Now, as a working adult student, I’m very focused on how the coursework applies to my job. The emphasis is on communication, collaboration and diplomacy. We’re expected to contribute equally to group projects, so it’s a different kind of “growing up” learning experience.

Any thoughts about the MCM Program?
Very rewarding! Most of the assignments require us to use current business experiences, and I can see that my on-the-job decision-making abilities have improved. Also, the classes that helped us develop our emotional intelligence were fascinating and I find myself consciously applying those lessons to my interactions with people on and off the job.

What is your overall experience with Franklin?
It’s been first-rate. The professors are extremely professional and I’ve made great contacts and friendships with my classmates. Overall, gaining this extra knowledge gives me peace of mind that I’ll have more career and personal options down the road.