This summary represents the highlights of my academic journey at the American Public University System, where I pursued my bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. I chose this university because it offered me the flexibility I needed to complete my academic goals, while working a full time career with a course load that was manageable and taught by some of the best instructors in the country. I chose the Business Administration degree path to strengthen my ability to operate my business as a full time entrepreneur post graduation.

Throughout my studies, I chose courses that taught me to think critically, solve complex problems, and challenged me to the solve real-world issues I would encounter as a business owner. My course load included studies in photography, digital communication, business technology, project management, operations research, accounting, and professional development. In BUSN202 I learned the strategic understanding of how technology drives business and professional careers. In ARTH240 I examined the history of how photographic practices developed over time and was introduced to influential photographers and their techniques which unknowingly developed a deeper understanding of visual storytelling in me.

One of the courses that ended up being the most impactful was the capstone Senior Seminar in Business Administration course. I refer to it as a “sleeper course” because my mindset going into the class was “last class to go, prior to graduation.” But it presented concepts, modules and exercises that allowed me to showcase my skills and develop develop promotional products such as e-portfolios, resumes and cover letters that will make me a viable candidate who will have an immediate impact in the field I am embarking on. In short, by taking those courses I was able was to develop a strong academic foundation that would enhance my practical skills, improve my competitiveness in the workforce, and position me for long-term career growth.

The structure of my portfolio was organized under three main objectives. Make my portfolio easy to navigate, insert as much information that will answer any questions a potential customer may have, without the need to contact me directly, and use visuals & language that showcase my competencies, talent and works experience in the clearest way possible. The contents of my portfolio includes an executive summary, my academic achievements, apprenticeships/volunteer work, gallery exhibitions, visual examples of my creative work, professional reflections, and career development materials. Each section is designed to provide insight into the knowledge, skills, and competencies I developed throughout my degree program, demonstrating both academic achievement and practical application.

Overall, my assessment of the American Public University System degree plan exceed both my personal and professional expectations. Professionally this degree has strengthened my qualifications, expanded my skill set, and increased my confidence in pursuing opportunities in photography, communications, media production, and all related fields under the visual creative umbrella. Personally, completing this program represents a long but rewarding accomplishment on the journey that complies of my life. The determination that carried me to graduate demonstrates the perseverance, discipline, and commitment to lifelong learning. The knowledge and experience gained through this academic journey has prepared me to contribute effectively in the professional environments I will operate in, while I continue to grow as a creative professional, a man and strategic thinker.