The Bellarmine Blog
Craig Smith '23: Inspired by achieving bachelor's degree, he's now enrolled in Executive MBA program
May 24, 2023

Craig Smith ’23 graduated in May 2023. Why did you decide to enroll in the Degree Completion Program? I started college about 22 years ago, but a divorce and sole custody of my then-2-year-old
daughter meant I had to make some hard life choices and step back from pursuing a
degree at that point. I always wanted to return for my degree, but something was always
in my way: red tape, losing too many credits from my previous attempt, etc. During
my daughter's first semester at Bellarmine University, I received an email about the
Degree Completion Program, and after a 45-minute Zoom call, I knew Bellarmine was
suitable for my goals. Knowing I could transfer many of my 120 credits and not start
over, I applied that day.
How has your program prepared you to succeed in your field? The Degree Completion Program at Bellarmine University has given me the desire and
tenacity to further my studies. As an admitted graduate student, I will pursue my
Executive Master's of Business Administration at Rubel School of Business at Bellarmine
University in the coming semester. Having plateaued in my field, the degree and advanced
degree potential will open many doors soon for me. The undergrad degree has already
earned me a promotion at my current employer.