Meet Jordi Steenstra, MGBA

Jordi was born in Utah but grew up in locations all over the world including Oregon, Netherlands, New Zealand, and Mexico.  He traveled a lot growing up and eventually settled down in Yuma because of his extended family.  While residing in Yuma, Jordi attended Arizona Western College (AWC) and graduated with his associate degree.  He continued his education at Brigham Young University where he earned a degree in business management.  All his prior education led him to find the Master of Global Business Administration (MGBA) program at NAU-Yuma, where he recently graduated with his MGBA degree.  He hopes to one day run a large international business.  Jordi stated that “NAU was a great option that was local, affordable, and provided me with a high-quality education.”

What does being selected as Graduate Student of the Year mean to you?

I was humbled that I was selected and nominated by one of my professors.  It was an honor to be recognized for the hard work that I have put into my education.

Which academic achievement are you most proud of and why?

Each achievement has been amazing.  When I started at AWC I thought, “I’ll just get a two-year degree.”  When I finished, I thought, “That was amazing, I should keep going and earn a bachelor’s degree.” After I earned my bachelor’s degree, I thought “That was pretty amazing too.  I should keep going and get a master’s degree.”  Each experience has its own special memories.

What achievement are you most proud of outside of the classroom?

I am the proudest of the times that I have given back to the community.  Recently I was part of an effort to raise $72,000 for the local United Way.  I organized the event and I was proud to give back.

Who has been your most influential role model in your academic pursuit?

My father has been the role model for me to follow in my academic pursuit.  He is highly educated and has always encouraged me to get an education and strive for more.  He has taught me that education opens the doors of opportunity.

How has NAU helped you grow as an individual?

NAU has helped me grow and mature as a professional.  The lessons and the quality of the coursework have helped me become more knowledgeable and better prepared to enter and compete in the workforce.

If you could provide one piece of advice to students just starting their graduate studies, what would it be?

I would tell them to just keep going.  It can be difficult to pursue a graduate degree while working and raising a family.  Take it one day at a time, one assignment at a time, and everything will work out.  If you never let go of why you started, you will finish.

As a result of his excellent academic performance, on behalf of the Department of Business and Administration, join me in congratulating Jordi Steenstra for being selected as the 2018 Graduate Student of the Year!