MSM Student Spotlight: Luke Plugge
MSM Luke Plugge, a Music major, graduating from the MSM Program this spring.
Q: Tell us about yourself.
Plugge: “My name is Luke Plugge and I currently work at the Phillips center with the UF Performing Arts as a Stagehand and Carpenter. My passions are performing music, working out, and going to concerts, for which there are many great opportunities at UF. I have been at the University of Florida for 5 years now, and love everything Gainesville offers. I have worked at the university in several different departments, and every one of them has been a great experience that made my time here at UF.”
Q: What was your undergraduate major, and why the MSM Program?
Plugge: “My undergraduate degree was in General Music at UF, where I specialized in performance and also pursued a minor in Mass Communications. I chose the MSM program because my ideal career is in Orchestra Administration and Fundraising, which requires business and music experience. The program allowed me to still be in the ensembles and bands that I enjoyed performing with while still pursuing my Master’s Degree.”
Q: What is the best thing you like about the MSM program?
Plugge: “My favorite part about MSM is how the professors really want you to succeed. In many of my classes, the professors encouraged a lot of discussion and feedback that really helped me understand the curriculum and get further in-depth than I would have been able to in a large lecture hall. The 8-week structure of the courses also kept the program fast-paced while still manageable.”
Q: What are your plans after graduation? How did the MSM program help you?
Plugge: “I am currently applying for jobs in Administration at music venues and Orchestras across the Southeast and hope to be working full time this upcoming fall. The MSM program and the Warrington School of Business have given me many resources through their online programs that have put me in contact with professionals in my field and given me a leg up on learning the specific software and skills I need for the industry I have chosen to pursue.”
Q: What is your advice to other students looking at the MSM program?
Plugge: “I would advise students looking at the MSM program to consider how the program’s focused 8-week courses can give a huge leg up to any student with any background interested in a career that needs business experience and skills. The MSM program can fit into your schedule, from working full-time to being a full-time student, so that you can go at your own pace, and Warrington will help you every step of the way. I would recommend the MSM program to anyone interested in business management who wants to learn and do more, even if they are hesitant about another commitment. It is definitely worth it!”
Q: One really cool fact about yourself.
Plugge: “One cool thing about me is that I was able to perform in Washington, D.C., at a Low Brass Army conference. Understanding professors and a flexible schedule allowed me to not only attend but also prepare for this performance during my second semester in the program.”
