Robert Penington always knew that he wanted to earn an MBA, but he came to the program by an unusual path.

Before coming to the Illinois MBA, Rob spent nearly ten years in biomedical research. Rob has co-authored three original scientific papers that were published in Gastroenterology, Clinical Cancer Research, and Molecular Cancer Therapeutics, all esteemed journals in the field. He holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in cell and structural biology and a master’s of biomedical science with a specialization in pharmacology, earned from the Mayo Graduate School.

Rob’s belief in the disconnect between scientists and business professionals working in the biotechnology industry inspired him to better understand how these disciplines intersect. The desire to serve as a bridge between the two fields drove Rob’s decision to pursue his MBA.

Now a second-year student pursuing concentrations in finance and marketing, Rob chose the Illinois MBA for its compelling program offerings and academic rigor.  He felt the integrated first-year curriculum provided him with a solid educational foundation, an essential component for individuals making the transition from other disciplines to business.

During his first year, Rob was active in the Graduate Marketing Association and was elected as Finance Chair.  In addition, he participated in an Illinois Business Consulting project and volunteered for the 2005 MBA Admissions Committee. During his second year, his continued commitment to his studies earned him an MBA2 Merit Scholarship, and an invitation to serve on the University Librarians Student Advisory Committee (ULSAC). 
 
Currently Rob holds an extended internship at the Office of Technology Management on campus.  In this position, he uses skills gained in the MBA classroom and his knowledge of biomedical science to evaluate technology for potential commercial applications. After graduation, Rob plans to continue using his passion for science and acumen for business in a strategic marketing or portfolio-planning role at a biotech or pharmaceutical company, preferably in the San Diego area. 

Rob looks forward to a productive final semester. He is confident that the skills he is acquiring in the program will prepare him not only for a dynamic and rewarding professional career, but also for a life rich with meaning and purpose. 

Submitted by Jaya Shoffner