Michael Marcellino has been working with MBA students at the Robert H. Smith School of Business for 12 years. He started working at the school while he was pursuing his master's degree in business, which he felt would round out the previous education he had received in engineering. In his current role as senior director of professional programs and services he oversees a number of aspects at Smith that affect the full-time and part-time MBA programs. Some of these responsibilities include curricular implementation and design, joint-degree program development, course scheduling, and registration of courses. In this position Marcellino has the opportunity to interact with and get feedback from students through working with student leaders and analyzing survey data and casual conversations. Through the feedback he is provided, Marcellino is able to make the changes that students want to see at the Smith School.

Included in the changes that Marcellino is making on a daily bases is his attempt to streamline Smith’s communication with students and provide it to them in a more timely manner. He is in the process of trying to make the student portal “Networth” the central location for all students to go to for information by raising awareness about the tool among students. Marcellino encourages students to provide feedback so that continuous changes and improvements such as this can be made, and the program can grow.

There are a number of things Marcellino likes about working at the Smith School. One aspect is being part of a team that is encouraged to take risks, dares to be unique and aspires for greatness. He enjoys being part of a program that is continually growing in stature and is never satisfied with status quo. Another part of Smith that he really enjoys is having the opportunity to work with dynamic individuals everyday that are some of the best and brightest in their respective areas. Marcellino says it is the most invigorating aspect of his job and he feels privileged to be a part of this community.

While not at Smith, Marcellino likes to work on his house, watch sports and spend time with his family. He moved into a new house about a year ago and even though it is a continuous flow of one project after another, he really enjoys spending the time to complete each one. Marcellino also has a large family in the area so he gets to enjoy spending time with them at family functions. He says there is never a shortage of birthdays, dinners and plays. It may comes as no surprise that Marcellino’s favorite holiday is Thanksgiving. His love of sports and spending time with his family, plus all the food that comes with the holiday, makes this a perfect fit.

The years that Marcellino has spent at Smith have provided him with some insight that he would like to share with Smith School students. First, “Cherish your time and spend it wisely. Time is precious. You have decided to spend your time with Smith so don’t miss any opportunities.” He also encourages students to get to know their classmates, professors and administrators. They will be able to help you throughout your career, as well as provide a friendly face. “We are a strong and diverse community that provides students with many opportunities. Take advantage of them and you will be pleased with the outcome.”

Story by Lettie Goodridge, MBA Candidate 2008, Smith Media Group