Change is constant in today’s business world — and confidence is what allows professionals to embrace it. At Bellevue University, College of Business faculty design learning experiences that go beyond technical expertise. Students gain not only knowledge and skills, but also the confidence to adapt, lead and pursue new opportunities as their careers evolve.
We asked two of our faculty members and one of our adjunct instructors to share their perspectives on how College of Business students build the confidence to pivot when opportunity arrives.
What skills do you see your students strengthening that give them confidence to grow or shift in their careers?
Monica McElhaney, Associate Professor of Accountancy: “In my accounting courses, students build a powerful mix of technical and professional skills — analytical thinking, ethical decision-making, data literacy and communication. These abilities extend far beyond accounting roles; they’re the foundation of any career that values critical thinking and sound judgment. When students begin to see how their coursework connects to real business challenges, their confidence grows. They recognize that their skills can help organizations make smarter, more strategic decisions.”
Marcia Brown, Assistant Professor of Educational and Organizational Leadership: “Students are developing adaptability and learning to navigate opportunities and challenges with confidence. As they strengthen their critical thinking, communication and collaboration skills, they begin to realize that leadership isn’t limited to a title — it’s about leading through ideas, initiative and influence. That realization gives them the courage to pursue new directions.”
Brian Brittain, Adjunct Business Instructor: “The most important skill I see students strengthening is their critical thinking. It improves with practice and our MBA curriculum provides that practice in every assignment. As they engage with complex problems, they become better decision-makers and more adaptable professionals. That confidence carries over to the workplace immediately.”
How do applied learning experiences translate to confidence on the job?
McElhaney: “We bring concepts to life with simulations and data-driven projects using tools like Power BI and Tableau. Students experience how theory turns into practice — how insights can shape strategy. That’s when they ‘connect the dots’ and see themselves not just as learners, but as contributors.”
Brown: “Assignments that ask students to apply learning directly to their work or personal experience have the most value. Case studies and applied projects help them see that they already use these skills — they just needed the vocabulary and framework to explain them. That’s often the turning point in their confidence.”
Brittain: “Many of my students are already in the workforce, so they see concepts play out in real time. When they recognize theories like situational leadership or power and influence tactics in action, it clicks — they’re able to name what they’ve observed for years and use it intentionally. That’s powerful.”
What sets Bellevue students apart as they pursue new opportunities?
Brittain: “Bellevue University does an exceptional job of preparing students to be both practitioners and people — not just technically capable but emotionally intelligent, strategic and self-aware. They don’t just study theories; they learn how to apply them daily. That readiness to act is what helps them pivot successfully.”
McElhaney: “Our students learn to see accounting — and business — as a language of influence. They’re not only interpreting data but communicating it clearly and ethically to drive outcomes. That ability to connect numbers with strategy builds lasting confidence.”
Brown: “They combine curiosity with humility. They understand that learning doesn’t stop at graduation — adaptability and an innovative mindset will define their success. When students realize they can keep learning, they stop fearing change and start leading through it.”
Looking ahead, what advice would you offer to professionals preparing for a career pivot?
McElhaney: “View skill-building as a lifelong journey. Keep learning new tools and technologies, but also continue developing communication and leadership abilities. The more you bridge theory and practice, the more prepared you’ll feel for whatever comes next.”
Brown: “Stay open, stay curious and lead with confidence and humility. The ability to adapt and innovate will be just as valuable as any credential.”
Brittain: “Apply what you learn daily. Knowledge alone doesn’t create growth — using it does. When students take that step, their confidence grows exponentially.”