Jason Vitug

Q: “Tell us about yourself: your family, friends, interests and hobbies.”
A: “I'm the fourth child of a large family and the happy uncle of 12 nieces and nephews. What drives my spirit is a sense of adventure and purpose. I've visited 49 states and traveled to 40 countries. When exploring these areas, I try the different food, speak with locals, visit museums and hike mountains. I enjoy the outdoors, and nothing beats a beautiful sunset. And I love being around friends but also value my personal time, which I spend on meditation, breathwork, and my yoga practice.”

Q: “Please describe briefly your professional experience and current employment.”    
A: “My first real job was working in the first-class lounges at Newark Airport serving drinks and cleaning toilets. After graduating with my bachelor’s, I entered retail banking, started as a teller, and worked my way up to VP of marketing and business development. Eventually, I left banking and journeyed into entrepreneurship and writing. I'm currently self-employed, owning multiple businesses.”

Q: “What was your motivation for pursuing your degree?”    
A: “I pursued my MBA because I wanted to fast-track my career into the C-suite. I knew learning more about business and methodologies would give me the education and skills to reach my, then, career goals.”

Q: “What are your future professional plans?”    
A: “I've found my path in storytelling and will continue on this journey. I envision more books and films that share the human stories of redemption, reinvention, self-love and acceptance.” 

Q: “Why did you choose Norwich?”    
A: “I learned about Norwich from my best friend. Norwich is unique because of its history, mission, and purpose-driven initiatives. It's not just talked about, but I see the work being done. The Norwich program stands out because of the structure, technology, and especially the alumni network.”

Q: “Did you have any uncertainties with choosing an online program?”    
A: “The cost was a significant factor in choosing an online program. Having my former employer offer tuition reimbursement helped lower the cost of attending. The deciding factor in choosing an online degree was the convenience: it's pretty challenging to work full-time, have a semblance of personal life, and pursue a master's degree.”

Q: “Prior to beginning your courses, what were some of your expectations for an online degree?”
A: “It's been some time since I graduated, but one expectation I remember was a desire to feel connected to other students and the school. I wanted to feel a sense of pride, not just have a piece of paper. I have been blown away by how amazing the connection to the school I attended online has been. I feel connected partly due to my desire to give back to the university.”

Q: “What is one piece of advice you would give to future students enrolling in one of Norwich's online programs?”    
A: “The one piece of advice I'd give to future students enrolling in Norwich's online programs is to take advantage of the many ways to connect with fellow students and opportunities to engage with the school. The lessons I learned online were amplified by the connections I made offline. Do not limit your online learning experience; find ways to engage with fellow students and participate within the Norwich family.”

Q: “How do you plan to use your degree in your career?”    
A: “My Norwich MBA has helped me achieve my "first" dream career: becoming an executive. The degree continues to serve me in my entrepreneurial pursuits. The degree emphasizes my background, which is helpful as an expert on money, wellness, and business.”

Q: “What has been your biggest personal or professional success since starting your degree?”    
A: “My most significant professional and personal success was getting published and having my first book become a bestseller and reviewed in the New York Times. Norwich celebrated my success and helped by sharing with the Norwich family about the book. I'm sure it helped with book sales. I have a second book, and Norwich continues to be part of that journey.”

Q: “Please tell us about a time in which you could put your knowledge gained in the classroom to work immediately at your job.”    
A: “I used my capstone project experience to assess my employer's strategic initiatives. The strategy I created was used by senior management. I was recognized for my efforts which became the rocket fuel for my ascent into senior management.”

Q: “What aspects of your Norwich experience will you carry most strongly with you?”    
A: “The connection to the mission. I may not have attended Norwich in person, but I feel tied to the community and to the university's continued success.”

Q: “Is there anything else you would like to tell us about your experiences at Norwich or the impact of Norwich on your life?”    
A: “Norwich remains committed to highlighting the success of its graduates, which has supported the trajectory of my life.”