MIB Student Spotlight: McHenry Priestly
Military veteran McHenry Priestly (MIB ’24) is graduating this fall with his Master of International Business degree, which he pursued in the online program at 61 years old. In January 2025, he’ll begin pursuing his Ph.D.
Priestly: “I am starting to semi-retire at the age of 61. My aviation business has been a large part of my life over the past 22 years, and now it is time to finish selling the enterprises and move on to the next phase of life. I am a U.S. Navy Veteran, airplane and helicopter pilot, SCUBA diving instructor (hobby and passion), and the proud father of a U.S. Marine. I was born in Pensacola, Florida.”
Q: Why did you decide to do the MIB Online program?
Priestly: “I realized it was time to further my education and increase my professional network. I wanted a business-related program with a recognized university. Since the last 22 years of my business ownership have been involved with international business, the MIB program fit my needs. I wanted to see if any of the MIB program courses would teach me new skills. The answer is yes. I learned quite a lot about international finance principles, presentation skills, better writing techniques, foreign exchange and trade.”
Q: Please tell us what you like the most about the MIB Online program.
Priestly: “There are quite a few that come to mind. The Global Immersion Experience (GIE) to Panama was the best for me.”
Q: Any advice for MIB Online students?
Priestly: “The elective classes can be just as challenging as the core classes. We are all busy, but you need to clear time on your calendar and develop a study plan with personal discipline. The program is challenging, and it becomes difficult to catch up if you fall behind. The professors are fair and will work with you if you make the effort.”
Q: What are your plans after the MIB program?
Priestly: “I am starting my Ph.D. in January 2025.”
