Marcus Rountree

Degree earned: Full-time MBA
Graduation: 2012
Current title/organization: Senior Product Manager – Marketing Technology, Nordstrom
LinkedIn Profile

Q: Why did you choose the NC State Jenkins MBA program for your graduate education?

The Jenkins MBA program provided a great balance of real world experience and a focus on technology and innovation. The value of my MBA continues to grow and I’m fortunate to have a Red MBA!

Q: How did your experience in the program contribute to your professional achievements and successes?

The strategy class during my second year in-school changed my career. I fell in love with strategy and decided to make that a focus for my career. Through continued education after the foundation built at NC State Jenkins MBA, I’ve been able to grow my career as a strategist.

Q: What did you enjoy most about your time in the Jenkins MBA program?

The people. My classmates were awesome, some have become family. We worked really hard to get our MBA and those memories will always be special.

Q: What do you miss most now that you have graduated?

I miss Raleigh. Each Jenkins MBA class gets better and better. The campus is continuing to grow and the talent that is joining the program is extremely high.

Q: What are a few of the most impactful classes/lessons you learned during your time at NC State?

Strategy Strategy Strategy! The other thing for me was international experience. Instead of having an internship, I decided to study abroad in Prague. It was a life changing experience for me and something I will always cherish. It changed my perspective and taught me that I can survive anywhere and adapt.

Q: What advice would you give for prospective and current students who are interested in your industry/profession?

I would say focus on strategy. Strategy is becoming the most important aspect of business.