For Keyshon Wills, enrolling in the MS in Management program at the Costello College of Business was more than just an academic decision—it was a strategic move to bridge the gap between his undergraduate education and the evolving demands of today’s business world.
After earning his bachelor’s degree from the University of Virginia with limited exposure to business coursework, Wills was eager to refine his business acumen and gain practical skills that would translate directly into a full-time role. The MS in Management program offered him that opportunity, along with a unique pathway to explore the intersection of business and cybersecurity through the Information Security Management certificate.
Throughout the program, Wills found inspiration in both the curriculum and the faculty. He recalls several standout courses that helped shape his perspective and skillset. Management of IT with Professor Candace Deans was a favorite due to its presentation-heavy, interactive format that encouraged collaborative learning and exploration of real-world IT challenges. In Managerial Finance with Professor Tiago Requeijo, he appreciated how applicable the coursework was to understanding volatility in the financial markets. And in Organizational Behavior with Professor Patrick McCreesh, Wills gained valuable insight into stakeholder dynamics and how to differentiate himself within an organization.
One particularly impactful moment came during his final project in Economics of Information Security with Professor Kumar Mehta. This capstone experience allowed Wills to analyze heightened cybersecurity risks in the banking industry and connect them to tangible business outcomes. By applying industry-relevant frameworks and methodologies, he developed a deeper understanding of how cyber threats affect strategic decision making—insights he plans to use in his professional life.
The MS in Management program not only provided Wills with technical knowledge but also instilled a leadership mindset. He emphasized the importance of balancing quantitative analysis with the human aspects of leadership—recognizing that in today’s rapidly evolving business environment it takes more than numbers to inspire teams and drive results. Teamwork, shared mindsets, and applied learning were central to his academic experience, and those values continue to influence how he approaches new challenges.
Now, Wills is embarking on his professional journey with Convergint Technologies in Columbia, Maryland. As a participant in the company’s development program, he is receiving specialized training on physical and cybersecurity services before transitioning into a sales role focused on generating new business. Strategic thinking plays a critical role in this position, as he must break into new accounts and build compelling business cases for potential clients. Leadership is equally important, particularly in setting the tone for team collaboration and inspiring others through initiative and dedication.
Wills credits the MS in Management program for helping him navigate the job search and transition confidently into his new role. Through the support of GMU’s Career Services and opportunities to network with professionals and alumni, he gained valuable exposure to shifting employer expectations and discovered pathways that aligned with his interests.
For students considering the program, Wills offers straightforward advice: start early, be proactive, and engage deeply with faculty and alumni. “Reach out to professors to learn about opportunities in their fields, and don’t wait to begin your job search. Leverage the university’s network—it’s a powerful tool for setting yourself apart.”
Culminating his time in the program, Wills was named the MS in Management program’s Student of the Year—an honor that affirmed the impact of his hard work and dedication. “I was humbled and honored,” he said. “It taught me that there are no limits to what you can accomplish and the kind of impact you can have on others.”
As he takes the next steps in his career, Keyshon Wills carries with him not only a well-rounded education but also the confidence and vision to lead in the dynamic worlds of business and cybersecurity.