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Student Spotlight: Marc-Anthony Blackburn’22 (Business Administration)

The Cutting Edge of Marketing

“There will be a lot of ups and downs [in college]. How you choose to move forward is what’s going to define you.”

Marc-Anthony is a student athlete hailing all the way from Ontario, Canada. This young man recently graduated with his bachelor’s degree but isn’t stopping there. As a lifelong learner, he plans to stay with Roberts to earn his master’s degree.

What’s one important lesson you’ve learned at Roberts?

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned at Roberts is how to effectively manage myself and my business. Another crucial lesson that I’ve developed is confidence. I’ve learned to be confident in myself and my craft. When you’re confident, this helps people respect, value, and believe in you.

My favorite class was Organizational Leadership. That was taught by Jamarr Myers. I take pride in leadership and enjoy learning in-depth strategies. He taught me how to be a more effective leader.

Regarding your academic coursework at Roberts, what do you feel will be the most helpful after you graduate?

I think the most helpful thing would be the various marketing, leadership, and management classes I’ve taken here. I’ve loved learning about the power of social media and word-of-mouth marketing.

What are your career plans after graduation?

First, I’m coming back to Roberts to get my Masters of Strategic Leadership. After that, I plan to pursue my soccer career.

When that time has come to an end, I want to work in the business field, preferably as a salesman or marketer. Ultimately, I want to save up enough money to open up a professional barber shop with my brother.

Tell us about your business!

When I was younger and needed to pay for college, I learned how to cut hair. I’ve been practicing this art for five years now. I do it because I want my clients to feel good about themselves.

My brother and I have created our own barbershop back in Canada called Platinum Cutz. I have also started a smaller barbershop in my dorm here at Roberts. Lastly, I started an apprenticeship program, teaching the fundamentals of haircutting to younger people who share my passion.

How do you aspire to serve others?

I focus on going out of my way to do at least one good deed for others each and every day!

What advice would you give to incoming freshmen?

Come into college with an open mind. Be ready to explore, grow, and learn. Don't be afraid to try new things and put yourself out there!

Failure is inevitable, but it is important to keep moving forward and learning from mistakes to make yourself a better version of yourself. There will be a lot of ups and downs. How you choose to move forward is what’s going to define you.

Faculty Feedback

"I've had the opportunity to work alongside Marc as his academic advisor and hear his passion for helping others, being a good servant leader, and setting a good legacy for others to follow. It’s no shock that other students look up to Marc as a mentor, whether within their business studies or on the soccer field."

-Lindsey Groves, Assistant Professor of Management

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