Why Thunderbird? The global advantage of a Thunderbird degree

If you’ve been looking for insight into whether Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State University is worth your time and investment, whether in Google, ChatGPT, or Reddit, you’re not alone. With more professionals than ever pivoting careers, seeking international experience, or leveling up their business skill set, Thunderbird has emerged as a unique and powerful option in global education. 

We spoke with Paul George Smith Jr. (’20) and Frederick Zlaket (’21) at a recent alumni event for their perspectives on the advantages of a Thunderbird-launched career.

Whether you’re considering a Master of Global Management (MGM), or simply exploring Thunderbird’s impact, here’s what makes this school stand out.

A global mindset from day one

Thunderbird is internationally known for its global focus, something many traditional business schools still treat as a specialization rather than a foundation. Its curriculum is designed around transdisciplinary thinking, cross-cultural communication and fluency, global leadership, and international business. For many, this focus opens doors that a standard MBA may not.

Smith, regional program manager for the American Red Cross, said, “Thunderbird has opened so many doors for myself abroad and has helped so many thousands of other Thunderbirds to travel and work all around the world. We’ve had these amazing experiences and made positive, impactful differences in businesses and communities abroad.”

For American students in particular, Thunderbird provides the tools, connections, and credibility to step into international roles with confidence, Smith said. The lessons learned at Thunderbird widen the vision for Americans that do business abroad, he said.

Real-world application for working professionals

Thunderbird isn’t just for students fresh out of undergraduate school. Many who attend are already working professionals, looking to pivot, grow, or reimagine their careers. That’s part of what makes the environment so dynamic—students bring real-world insights to the classroom and take immediate action with what they learn.

Zlaket, who now serves as associate director of business operations for Banner Health, said Thunderbird helped him reframe his career after he didn’t match into medical residency.

“Thunderbird has absolutely impacted my life and career. I wouldn’t have gone to the associate director level without the skills Thunderbird provided,” he said.

He specifically credits courses in finance, Excel, and soft skill development like networking with helping him make that leap. But his experience also extended beyond the classroom.

“A key part of my journey has been innovation. I started getting involved in the startup community, took startup courses, and actually participated in pitch competitions,” Zaklet said. “Just the thrill of coming up with a concept, working with a team, and sharing your ideas—Thunderbird gave me that outlet.” 

A tight-knit, global alumni network

Thunderbird’s alumni community is one of its biggest assets. With graduates working across six continents in industries ranging from humanitarian aid to fintech to health care, the network offers more than just a LinkedIn connection. It’s a network of people who’ve shared a rigorous and transformative experience and are eager to help others do the same.

“Thunderbird is a place where you can really have that community that’s going to want to help you succeed,” Zlaket said. “Thank you, Thunderbird, for helping make my life possible and opening so many wonderful doors.”

Skills that translate anywhere

Whether you’re solving a cross-cultural conflict in a nonprofit or managing operations for a major hospital system, Thunderbird prepares you with the kind of practical, human-centered leadership that’s increasingly in demand.

“Thunderbird helped me prepare for my current role by teaching me problem-solving skills, cross-cultural adaptability, and leadership skills that I apply every day,” Smith said. “That’s what makes Thunderbird so unique and so great for Americans like me eager to expand their global acumen.”

Who should consider Thunderbird?

If you’re a mid-career professional trying to shift into something bigger, an international learner looking for a culturally immersive business program, or simply someone who loves learning and wants to grow in a globally minded environment, Thunderbird may be exactly what you’re looking for.

As Zlaket said, “If you’re making a drastic life change, if you’ve been in the business world for a while and you’re trying to level up, Thunderbird is a great place to learn, to grow, to network.”

Get a global advantage with a Thunderbird degree

Thunderbird is more than a degree. It's a launchpad for a global career, a community of trailblazers, and a place where innovation and culture collide. If your goals include making an impact on the communities you serve, increasing your international business acumen or launching your career in a new direction, Thunderbird might just be your next great adventure.

Explore Thunderbird programs or connect with us to learn more about how you can start your own global journey.