The MSU MBA: A Diamond Anniversary

Frida Roeyset

photos by Logan Kirkland

FALL 2018 | DIVIDENDS

The MSU MBA: A Diamond Anniversary

By Joni W. Seitz

In 1958, the Hope Diamond was donated to the Smithsonian, Elvis Presley was inducted into the United States Army, the microchip was patented and Mississippi State College was renamed

Mississippi State University.

That was also the year Russia launched Sputnik 3 into space, resulting in a national call for expanded graduate education in a broad range of fields. One way in which the newly renamed university answered the call was by establishing a Master of Business Administration degree program in what was then known as the College of Business and Industry.

The first to graduate from the program was Roland Jones, a true-maroon Bulldog who also completed his doctorate at MSU and eventually became the head of the Marketing Department in the College.

The program has evolved during the 60 years following Jones’ graduation, but students from around the world still follow Jones’ legacy and passion for succeeding.

One such student is Frida Roeyset of Hareid, Norway, whose MBA journey coincides with the 60th anniversary year of the program. Roeyset’s connection to MSU dates back a generation to Turner Wingo, another true-maroon Bulldog with a philanthropic legacy at MSU.

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS | MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY

Roeyset’s mother Anne stayed with business alumnus Wingo and his late wife Sherry as an exchange student when Anne was in high school. The connection was so special that it continued and grew over the years. Anne calls Wingo her “American Dad.” Roeyset describes him as her grandfather and calls him “T.”

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When asked why she chose MSU, Roeyset explains that she and her mother liked the idea of her being close to T, who has a home in Starkville. In addition, she says that the students and alumni have a wonderful relationship with their University.

“Back home it is just school, a building you go to and then you’re done,” she remarks. “But here it’s almost who you are. For example, when I was growing up, T had MSU newsletters and articles hanging on his office walls, and he went to all the athletic events. He always wore MSU shirts, hats and pants. He even gave me an MSU cheerleading outfit when I was little. I didn’t understand what the Bulldog family was at the time, but I do now – it’s who you are.

“Actually, it’s who we are,” Roeyset corrects herself with a smile. “And it is great to be a part of it!”

Roeyset consults with Angelia Knight

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MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY | COLLEGE OF BUSINESS

Along with wanting to be part of the Bulldog family, Roeyset chose an MBA to differentiate herself from others when she returns to Norway.

“Attaining an MBA, especially in a different country, in a different language from my first language, will give me a competitive edge,” she explains.

Securing her place in the MBA program brought out Roeyset’s competitive edge, as well as her creativity. As part of the selection process, candidates are required to make a five-minute presentation on a topic of their choice. The purpose is to judge their presentation skills while getting a glimpse of their personalities.

Roeyset’s presentation centered on an activity she loves, one her grandmother taught her when she was five – knitting.

“I love knitting because it connects me to my grandmother, and it is challenging,” she explained at the time. “Everything I knit is different and requires focus on what I’m doing in that moment.”

Angelia Knight, Director of MBA programs in the Graduate Studies in Business Department, calls her knitting presentation exceptional.

“Frida’s presentation stood out because she was able to enthusiastically illustrate how to knit a beautiful sweater made with a traditional Norwegian pattern,” Knight explains. “She was able to connect with us as she described the story of her grandmother sharing her talent and skills. She inspired everyone on the panel to want to learn more, which is the hallmark of a great presentation and a characteristic of the future leaders we want in this program.”

DIVIDENDS | FALL 2018

FALL 2018 | DIVIDENDS

Roeyset has made the most of her acceptance into MSU’s nationally ranked MBA program, which focuses on developing the strengths of emerging leaders, helping them extend their capabilities.

“The program has been tough but well worth it,” she says. “This is a safe place to learn and make mistakes because everyone involved in the program is welcoming and obviously wants us to succeed.”

Roeyset enjoys the enthusiasm her professors show in the classroom.

“They all want us to do well,” she states. “From the first day of classes, professors encouraged us to call or text or come to their offices if we need help. They are truly sincere and very committed to helping us do the best we can.”

Roeyset also likes to be in classes in which professors have real-world experiences to share, making the material come to life.

“One day I want to teach at the high school or college level,” she says. “I think it is important for me to work outside education first in order to bring hands-on applications to my future students. I don’t know what field I want to work in, yet. Right now, I’m considering all my options. I have time to make that decision while I focus on the work that’s in front of me at the moment.”

It’s a lesson she learned while knitting with her grandmother.

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS | MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY

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