After completing his undergraduate degree, Cody Adams found himself unsure of his next steps. Evaluating his options, he recognized the strength of Clemson’s MBA Corporate program. With its strong connections and reputation for career advancement, Cody decided to apply. As he prepares to graduate at the end of this month, he reflects on how the program has shaped his career trajectory and personal growth.
Cody credits the MBA program for its practical, real-world applications. The knowledge and skills gained in his courses have directly applied to his professional roles. He highlights the value of working on real-life examples and learning under professors like Dr. David Peyton, who provided mentorship and inspiration. This experience has made Cody eager about the corporate world and confident in his ability to make a meaningful impact through his work.
While pursuing his degree, Cody worked full-time as a manager at Core 24, a gym in downtown Greenville. The MBA program’s flexibility allowed him to manage his professional commitments alongside his studies. Cody emphasizes the support he received from his advisor, Troy Thieman-Ruhl, who played a crucial role in helping him plan his classes and stay on track to graduate. “He was fantastic at making everything clear and simple—a breath of fresh air,” he notes.
In addition to the strong advising support, Cody highlights the Clemson MBA program’s focus on networking as one of its greatest strengths. Events like the Networking Forum and career services connections offered him invaluable opportunities to connect with industry professionals. At the Networking Forum, Cody participated in a brief 10-minute interview with representatives from Robert Half, which led to further discussions and ultimately played a key role in securing his position at TTI.
Starting in January, Cody will begin his new role at TTI in Raleigh, focusing on baseline sales and marketing before transitioning into their corporate program. He admires TTI’s commitment to nurturing employees’ strengths and placing them in roles that align with their skills. Cody is eager to grow within the company, aiming for promotions that will lead to leadership opportunities and eventually allow him to manage his team.
Cody’s journey highlights the importance of perseverance and maximizing available opportunities. “I advise current and prospective MBA students to utilize the program’s resources and prioritize networking fully,” he shares, emphasizing the value of staying disciplined and building connections. For those entering the job market, Cody offers encouragement: “Don’t get discouraged—you never know where things can lead.”
