GV Grad Fact Friday: Student Spotlight Edition

I decided to change it up a bit this week.  This student spotlight article was in our November newsletter and I thought it would be great to post it on my blog.  Enjoy.

A Student Perspective: Peter Kiernan, Business


Peter Kiernan decided to pursue a graduate education after a discussion of career path planning at his employer, John Deere. He saw an opportunity to advance his level of education, communication skills and credentials, for both his career and personal growth goals.

Peter has a long tradition with Grand View. He graduated with a double major in Accounting and Business Administration in 1994 and is successfully completing his first semester of graduate studies. In addition, he has been appointed to President Henning's Advisory Council and as the student representative on the Graduate Council.

"I looked at Grand View’s program because I wanted to focus on improving my leadership skills and to gain an understanding of the dynamics of leadership. After looking at Grand View's curriculum, a traditional MBA would not meet this objective. I was interested in expanding my knowledge in areas other than business. Since my undergraduate degree from Grand View was in Business and Accounting, this prepared and has provided me a very successful career with John Deere."

Peter has worked for John Deere for the past ten years and is currently a pricing analyst in the Intelligent Vehicle Solutions Division. They develop and manufacture satellite technology to provide combines and tractors field solutions of yield mapping and hands-free steering. Peter was raised on a farm south of Des Moines that has been in his family since 1855. Today he farms southeast of Des Moines, which allows him to stay current with farming practices, technologies, and marketing of commodities. So he was also looking for a graduate program with plenty of flexibility to match his busy schedule.

"I’ve really been impressed with the caliber of the subject matter and the professors at Grand View. This is a tremendous learning opportunity, and I’m also having a great time. The interdisciplinary nature of the program means classes have a great mix of students, a very diverse group with different perspectives and personal experiences. That matters because leaders will not always be interacting with the same type of people in one area at the same time. "I encourage those contemplating graduate study to look at their own career and personal goals, their strengths and areas where there is room for improvement. Then look at what Grand View offers to meet these goals. My great grandfather used to say, your life is what you make of it; Grand View has definitely prepared the foundation to allow me to not only set goals but to obtain them."