Brandon Swindell G'25
When COVID-19 disrupted life in 2020, Brandon Swindell G’25 seized the opportunity to pursue a long-held goal: earning an MBA. By 2021, he had enrolled in Elon University’s MBA program, driven by the desire to stay competitive and gain new skills for his career.
“Elon provided excellent value,” he said. “The ability to adjust the pace of the program based on my family and work commitments made it an easy decision.” The flexibility allowed him to balance his academic pursuits with personal and professional responsibilities seamlessly.
As a team leader at Fidelity Investments from New Bern, N.C., Swindell became increasingly excited about AI’s potential in financial services as he progressed through the program. “AI can transform our industry, from enhancing security and fraud monitoring to helping advisors and clients make informed financial decisions,” he said. He sees AI as a key driver of innovation and efficiency in the coming years, a vision shaped significantly by his experiences at Elon.
Integral to his success were the professors at Elon, who left lasting impressions on him. Swindell said that Associate Dean Haya Ajjan’s insights on AI opened his eyes to the possibilities of technology in education and the workplace. Professors Jo Buck, Raj Gupta, and Ashley Gangloff also imparted valuable lessons in leadership, community, and strategic thinking, further enriching his educational journey.
Balancing career, school, and family life required careful planning, a skill Swindell mastered during his time at Elon. “I coordinate weekly plans with my wife to ensure we take care of ourselves and our responsibilities,” he said. This balance was crucial to his success, allowing him to manage various aspects of his life effectively.
For those considering or starting their MBA journey, Swindell has valuable advice. He encourages prospective students to connect with current students and alumni for insights. His mantra for those starting their MBA journey is “Discipline over Motivation.”