Brett Stovall points to the 'versatility' of a business degree for his choice of major

Brett Stovall

Please tell us a little bit about yourself and share a bit about your background and how it relates to your major.

My name is Brett Stovall, and I am from Hermitage, Arkansas. I am currently a junior at Henderson State obtaining my bachelor’s degree in Business Management. I am pleased to have maintained a relatively high GPA and have been on the Chancellor’s list multiple times. I am currently a member of the Henderson State ROTC program having obtained many leadership positions, while also enhancing my leadership abilities.

Are you a first-generation college student? If not, which family members have attended college?

Both of my parents have attended college, therefore I have always been pushed to better myself through higher-level education.

What inspired you to major in business?

I decided to major in business fairly early in my college career, due to it being a degree that is highly versatile in today’s workforce. I feel that I can pursue several careers with a degree in business.

Why did you choose Henderson to pursue your degree?

I chose Henderson State due to its fairly-small campus, the location being not far from home, the ROTC program, and the hospitality shown by staff when touring the campus.

What has been your favorite class so far, and why?

My favorite class thus far has to be the Principles of Management class I am taking due to its ethical discussions, and workplace mannerisms discussed. I feel that what I am being taught in this class is very applicable to the actual work environment.

Which professors have had a significant impact on your college experience?

Mrs. (Lisa) Bell has made a huge impact on my college experience, along with my professor MSG Flanagan over at ROTC. I have learned from both of them important life and people skills such as speaking and leading individuals to success, not only in college, but outside of college in the workforce.

Are you involved in any clubs, organizations, or extracurricular activities on campus?

Apart from ROTC, in which I have been involved for several years, I am also a part of the Student Advisory Council for the School of Business. Both of these extracurriculars have enhanced my ability to speak with individuals, give input on campus problems, impact my community, network with individuals, and overall lead me to success in establishing a career after graduation.

What advice would you give to incoming students to make the most of their experience at Henderson?

Be involved! Begin your college experience with the attitude of making connections. I have gotten further in my college career, military career, and life in general by speaking and making connections with individuals. It is rarely about what you know, but rather who you know. Join on-campus organizations.

Is there anything you wish you had known when you first started college?

I wish I had known how much of an impact that being involved would have on my life before starting college.

What are your career aspirations or plans after graduation?

After graduation, I will be commissioned as a 2LT in the U.S. Army National Guard, while also obtaining a bachelor’s degree in Business Management. I plan to seek a career in medical device sales in central Arkansas.

Please share something about yourself that would surprise most people, including your friends.

Apart from those in ROTC, many people do not know that I am the first person in the Henderson State ROTC program’s history to receive the title of Burke’s Raider. This title comes from a week-long set of events that are both mentally and physically strenuous. I am proud to wear this title and represent the legacy of distinguished alumni and Medal of Honor recipient Lloyd L. Burke.

If you could have lunch with any historical figure, who would it be? And why?

It would have to be someone like Alexander the Great, due to his responsibilities at such a young age. I think I’d enjoy picking his brain and asking questions about how it felt to have so much power at such a young age, and diving into what It was like to be alive at that time.

Who is your biggest inspiration? And why?

My biggest inspiration would have to be my grandfather. I have learned more life skills from him than any other individual. I seek to have his level of patience and be half the man that he is. He has taught me not only life skills, but also relationship skills in which I wish to use to have a successful God-centered marriage.