Ashley Breaux

Tell us about your decision to get your MBA at CSUSM?

I had received my bachelor’s degree from CSUSM, so it made sense to stay there for my MBA as well. Throughout my undergrad, I had come to love the environment that CSUSM offers, as well as how small the programs were so that it was easy to create a teacher-student bond. This program also offered the accelerated specialized MBA program which was very convenient for my schedule and allowed me to put an emphasis on my learning. 

Where has you career path taken you since graduating?

Since graduating, I have recently accepted a role as an Associate Marketing Programs Manager at Illumina. Having an MBA has really made me more of a prospect to employers. 

Tell us about your current organization?

Illumina is one of the largest biotech companies and is a leader in manufacturing, developing, and marketing life science tools. They have created affordable ways to explore DNA at its entirety and dives deep into the complexity of the genome. 

Tell us about your role at Illumina?

I help to market oncology testing done at Illumina. Despite the effects of COVID-19, we have been able to put together virtual events to keep our communities engaged and up to date on our latest findings.

What is your  favorite part of your job?

My favorite part is being able to promote a company that continues to have amazing breakthroughs as well as working with such a great team that constantly collaborates and supports one another. 

Important lessons you have learned in management/leadership roles?

Being in leadership and management roles, I have learned that it is important to take into account everyone’s input while also having a healthy balance of delegation and collaboration. 

 

Any advice for students or alumni?

My advice for current students would be to get as involved as possible with programs and events that the school has to offer. For alumni, I would say not to get discouraged if you’re not finding a job right away. Don’t settle for just any offer, be patient and wait until you find a job that is worth doing. That’s what I did and it has truly paid off. 

What is your favorite memory from CSUSM MBA?

My favorite memories from the CSUSM MBA program were all of the group activities that I participated in with my cohort because it gave me an opportunity to become friends with people from all over the world and create long lasting connections with everyone.