In this Real Humans: MBA Students, we meet four members of the Class of 2028 at Michigan State University Eli Broad College of Business. Whether seeking to change careers, build on existing expertise, or pursue new professional passions, these students have chosen Broad for its strong academic offerings, extensive career resources, and welcoming community.
To start, Tia Messerlian brings experience in healthcare operations and biotechnology recruiting. After three and a half years as a medical office coordinator at Bogikian Medical Corp, she decided to pursue an MBA to transition into a more corporate role and expand her career opportunities. Next, Dyson Mingo rejoins MSU, having already earned his undergraduate degree in environmental science there. With experience spanning esports, Clean Water Action, and the Belle Isle Conservancy, Mingo is passionate about combining sustainability with business strategy. He is particularly excited to be among the first students to pursue Broad’s new sustainability concentration alongside supply chain management.
We then meet Michael Maksymowski, who arrives at Broad after 11 years working in higher education, where he focused on student leadership development and community engagement. A graduate of Eastern Michigan University with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and international relations, he also holds a master’s degree in educational administration from the University of the Pacific. Maksymowski spent two years at California State University, Los Angeles, before moving to UNC Charlotte, where he managed leadership programs for nine years and helped launch the university’s TEDx event. Seeking a career change and a return to the Midwest, he chose Broad for its strong alumni connections in Detroit and Chicago and its support for students transitioning into new industries. Rounding out our featured students is Ella Squire, who earned her bachelor’s degree in biology, health, and society from the University of Michigan. Although she initially envisioned a career in medicine, her two and a half years working as an operations specialist at Bivouac in Ann Arbor sparked a passion for the outdoor apparel and equipment industry. Inspired to follow this new direction, Squire decided to pursue an MBA immediately after completing her undergraduate studies.
Together, these four students highlight the range of experiences, perspectives, and aspirations represented in Michigan State Broad’s MBA Class of 2028. Click through the following pages to learn more about their paths to Broad, their advice for prospective applicants, and what they are most excited to experience as members of the Spartan community.
