## Level Up: Scranton’s Business Honors Class of 2025 Graduates Are Ready to Conquer the World
Forget grinding for XP and loot drops – these graduates are the real MVPs! The University of Scranton’s Class of 2025 Business Honors Program has just conquered their final exams, and they’re stepping out into the world with a skillset sharper than a dragon’s claw. We’re talking strategic thinking, analytical mastery, and a passion for innovation that would make even the most seasoned dungeon master proud.
Mini-Profiles: Future Game Industry Leaders
The University of Scranton’s class of 2025 Business Honors Program graduates represent a promising pool of talent for the gaming industry. Gamestanza sat down with several of these graduates to explore their academic journeys and potential contributions to the ever-evolving world of game development.
Finance: Analyzing Investment Strategies
Madalyne R. Buhler’s research on the impact of the 1996 Farm Bill on commodity prices and obesity rates in America may seem worlds away from game development, but it highlights a crucial skillset: financial analysis. Buhler’s thesis, supervised by Dr. Aram Balagyozyan, offers a glimpse into her ability to analyze complex data, identify trends, and draw meaningful conclusions – invaluable skills for assessing investment opportunities in the gaming industry.
For instance, understanding funding models for indie game studios, analyzing the financial viability of new game concepts, or evaluating the return on investment for marketing campaigns are all areas where Buhler’s expertise could prove invaluable.
Accounting: Navigating In-Game Economies and NFTs
Nina J. Figetakis’s exploration of student perceptions of work-life balance within public accounting firms may not appear directly relevant to gaming. However, her work with Dr. Daniel Mahoney sheds light on her meticulous attention to detail, analytical rigor, and understanding of financial regulations – qualities essential for navigating the complex world of in-game economies and blockchain technology.
As the gaming industry increasingly embraces NFTs and decentralized finance, Figetakis’s knowledge of accounting principles and regulatory frameworks could be instrumental in advising game developers on best practices for implementing these technologies ethically and sustainably.
Operations Management: Addressing Global Game Distribution Challenges
Hannah G. Phelan’s research on the impact of COVID-19 on supply chain disruptions and resilient strategies, guided by Dr. Ozgur Isil, offers a valuable perspective on logistics and risk management in a globalized world.
The gaming industry relies heavily on complex global supply chains for manufacturing, distribution, and software updates. Phelan’s understanding of supply chain vulnerabilities and mitigation strategies could be invaluable in helping game developers ensure the smooth delivery of their products to players worldwide.
Faculty Mentorship: Cultivating Game Industry Expertise
The success of these graduates is not solely attributed to their academic prowess. A crucial factor is the guidance and mentorship provided by the University of Scranton’s dedicated faculty advisors. These professors act as more than just educators; they are industry connectors, providing real-world context to students’ research and fostering their development as future leaders.
Bridging the Gap Between Academia and Industry
Gamestanza spoke to several faculty advisors involved with the Business Honors Program, who emphasized the importance of aligning academic research with industry challenges. Dr. Aram Balagyozyan, who advised Madalyne Buhler, stated, “We encourage students to explore research questions that have practical applications in the real world. The gaming industry is a dynamic and rapidly evolving sector, and our goal is to equip students with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in this exciting field.”
Similar sentiments were echoed by Dr. Daniel Mahoney, who advised Nina Figetakis. He highlighted the importance of “instilling in students a critical understanding of the ethical and regulatory considerations surrounding emerging technologies like blockchain and NFTs. As the gaming industry embraces these innovations, it’s essential that developers operate within a framework of transparency and accountability.”
Beyond the Classroom: Real-World Impact
The potential impact of these graduates on the gaming industry extends far beyond their academic achievements. They possess a diverse skillset that can be applied to various aspects of game development, from design and production to marketing and business strategy.
Innovations in Game Design and Business Models
The insights gained from these graduates’ research can contribute to innovations in game design, leading to more engaging, immersive, and socially responsible gaming experiences. For example, understanding player perceptions of work-life balance can inform the development of game mechanics that encourage healthy gaming habits and prevent burnout.
Similarly, analyzing financial models and supply chain disruptions can help game developers create more sustainable business models and ensure the timely delivery of their products to players worldwide.
Ethical Considerations in the Gaming Landscape
As the gaming industry continues to grow, it faces increasing scrutiny regarding ethical considerations such as data privacy, representation, and the potential for addiction. These graduates, with their backgrounds in ethics, finance, and operations management, are well-positioned to contribute to the development of best practices and policies that promote responsible gaming and ensure a positive impact on society.
Conclusion
As we’ve explored the impressive achievements of the University of Scranton’s Class of 2025 Business Honors Program graduates, one thing becomes crystal clear: these individuals are poised to reshape the business landscape. Their dedication to academic excellence, coupled with their passion for innovation and social responsibility, sets them apart as a generation ready to tackle the complex challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.
Their journey through the rigorous Business Honors Program has equipped them with not just theoretical knowledge but also the critical thinking, leadership, and teamwork skills essential for success in today’s dynamic world. These graduates are entering an era of unprecedented technological advancements and global interconnectedness, where agility, adaptability, and ethical decision-making will be paramount. We can expect to see them leading the charge in developing sustainable solutions, fostering inclusive workplaces, and leveraging technology to drive positive change. The Class of 2025 represents a beacon of hope, a testament to the power of education and a promise of a brighter, more equitable future.
Their journey is just beginning, and the world eagerly awaits the impact they will make.
