A Conversation with Incoming Minerva Graduate Student Marcus Gong

This is part of a series of profiles introducing students from Minerva’s incoming Fall 2024 graduate class. If you would like to learn more about our programs, please visit our website.

Minerva’s Master in Decision Analysis program brings together candidates of different backgrounds and lived experiences with a shared interest in interdisciplinary, forward-thinking approaches to solving the world’s most pressing problems.

The work and background of incoming graduate student Marcus Gong is a prime example of solving problems through interdisciplinary methodology. Originally from South Korea, he holds a bachelor’s degree in Design Business and English Literature from Kyonggi University. His career has transcended the administrative, marketing, and teaching fields, where across varying roles, he has honed in on his project management skills and adaptability. His drive to learn has not stopped there. He is currently diving into the world of multimedia, specifically content creation, a field he “recognize[s] as crucial in today’s digital landscape.”

Minerva stood out to Marcus for its interdisciplinary approach. The Master in Decision Analysis program will both welcome and advance Marcus’ interdisciplinary background through its content and pedagogy.

“In today’s rapidly evolving world, there’s a critical need for the fusion of knowledge across various domains, especially with the rise of AI and big data. Minerva’s focus on teaching the core principles of decision-making rather than confining students to a single discipline perfectly aligns with this need.”

Marcus is also excited to experience Minerva’s online, active learning format. Much of Marcus’ undergraduate learning experience was conducted virtually during COVID-19. From this experience he realized that online learning both accommodates different learning styles and prepares students for an, “increasingly digital workplace.” Minerva’s niche combination of “flexibility, global exposure, and innovative virtual learning” enhances learning effectiveness and knowledge application grounded in reality.

Through interweaving his various skills and areas of knowledge, Marcus strives to become a leader in creating work environments that enhance both employee well-being and organizational efficiency; two key workplace elements that often feel at odds with one another. To do so, Marcus views learning how to make information-based decisions as a crucial first step as an aspiring leader:

“It is crucial for leaders to understand how to make information-based decisions because a single decision can have significant impacts. For a leader, this influence is even greater. In my experience, I’ve seen how relying solely on intuition, which can be tainted by psychological biases or simple luck, is not sufficient. Information-based decisions ensure that choices are made based on data and evidence, leading to more reliable and effective outcomes. This approach minimizes the risk of errors and maximizes the positive impact of their decisions.”

Minerva’s master’s program will enable Marcus to make information-based decisions as a project manager striving to improve the work environments around us.

“After graduating from Minerva, I see myself excelling as a data-driven project manager capable of making informed and impactful decisions. I aim to leverage the strategic thinking and interdisciplinary skills gained from the program to lead successful projects. My goal is to take on leadership roles that allow me to implement effective decision-making processes and contribute to solving real-world problems.”