Leveraging Knowledge and Networks: How Broad’s EMBA Transformed Setback to Success

James Costello (center) with his EMBA team, Team 5

With Broad’s Executive MBA program, connections and coursework combine to create a transformative student experience. Broad’s commitment to collaboration and practical knowledge is what makes it one of the top EMBA programs, giving students a competitive edge in their careers. The curriculum is rooted in real-world challenges and project-based learning, allowing students to forge professional relationships while gaining in-demand skills to thrive in today’s business environment.

James Costello, product support manager at KLA, earned an EMBA from Broad in 2022 and found the knowledge gained and connections made to be invaluable. While in the program, he experienced a layoff. What most would consider a setback was an exciting new opportunity for Costello, who leveraged his new network and MSU resources to secure a position with KLA. He highlighted how valuable peer connections were during this time.

“Your network [in the EMBA program] will be a large group of highly successful, like-minded individuals on the same track of success that you are on… You will absolutely benefit from knowing them. It may be something big like a sale or a new job or something small like a rare post on LinkedIn that inspires you to look at a problem in a new way.”

Costello encourages students to document everything they learn through the EMBA program, noting the lasting value of the tactical knowledge gained. He points to the wealth of practical knowledge and the importance of having it readily available for future reference.

“Keep all your textbooks and binders,” said Costello. “I promise in a few months or years you will absolutely be texting your teammates, ‘Hey what class did we learn about Business Model Canvassing in?’ Keep everything and keep it organized.”

Professional networking leads to innovation, opportunity, and connection. It is an invaluable tool with the potential to accelerate career growth. This is why top EMBA programs, like Broad’s, are focused on facilitating the creation of networks among students. Collaboration is a pillar of the program, allowing students to forge professional relationships that are certain to last a lifetime.

Costello’s experience demonstrates how every moment of the EMBA program is an opportunity. Students make meaningful connections and learn practical applications that will continue to serve them throughout their careers. Costello credits much of his success to the skills he gained during the program. His technical background, mixed with an EMBA, made him a standout and helped him receive 2 promotions in his 4 years with KLA.

“With each promotion, I’ve been able to leverage more and more of what I learned during my MBA,” he said. “The MSU EMBA changed my life. Full stop.”