Lyncoya Moore has moved up the ranks quickly in her career, but she knew there was an opportunity to enhance and refine her leadership skills. So, she chose Florida Tech’s Master’s in Organizational Leadership program.
“I chose Florida Tech because of the degree program and, honestly, all of the good things I heard from other graduates who went through one of their online programs. They enticed me and they were not wrong.”
The Huntsville, AL native had the support of her family behind her throughout her journey:
“I have a husband, and four children: three girls and one boy, whom I had the blessing of carrying and birthing during my degree program. My children are my ‘why’ and my husband motivates me to keep going when I feel like throwing in the towel. My mother is still living and she is also a big part of my life; one of the strongest links in my support system. I love her dearly for that.”
We spoke with Moore about her academic journey, what she most enjoyed about the program and more.
Tell us about your background.
I am currently working in the hospitality field, which is the bulk of my professional background. I started as an undergrad and eventually came back after being in the healthcare arena for a couple years. Once I graduated with my bachelor’s, I came back to a different brand and ranked up very quickly. I am now the Director of Sales at my current organization and I hope to be able to move into another leadership role.
How will your Florida Tech degree make a difference in your career?
I feel that my degree will help me advance in my field or step into new doors by preparing me for the challenges ahead. It has instilled more education, confidence, skills and leadership abilities to forge ahead into a career path that is near and dear to my heart, leading by example and learning from every experience.
What surprised you most about taking an online program?
I think I was surprised by the online classes’ amount of the workload, but the support provided by your teachers enables you to complete and learn in an interactive environment.
What was your favorite class and why?
My favorite classes were Leadership Ethics and Foundations of Leadership; these two classes taught me about different types of leaders and leadership and how to continue being a fair and just leader at all times in all situations to the best of my abilities. I loved learning about the different types of leaders, where I fell in that spectrum, what qualities I had that needed growing and those that may need suppressing.
What is your most valuable takeaway from the program?
My most valuable takeaway from the program was when we learned about “getting on the balcony” and listening to others to make the right leadership decisions when needed. I also learned that leadership skills and development is a lifelong process and understanding there are times when leadership types will intersect, but making sure to remain honest in the leader you are. I also learned to have a voice and to back my thoughts up with educated answers.
What soft skills do you think you developed in this program?
I think that I learned most that I am great at organization when it comes to direction in projects as well as being able to put others’ thoughts together with mine in a cohesive manner. I was always designated project manager and recorder. I liked that I did not know I was good at that until others in my courses highlighted that.
Can you speak to why you think earning a leadership degree can provide a competitive advantage?
I feel that earning a master’s degree will give me the competitive advantage of knowing that I can deal with change and new implementation of new ideas in an organization. I also feel that earning my degree will prove that I am willing to go the extra mile to learn, grow and bring innovative and creative ideas to aid their strategic direction. It will showcase that I am dedicated to growing and learning on a continuous basis in my personal and professional life.
What advice would you give other students who are considering enrolling in the program?
My advice would be to soak up everything and apply the concepts you learn every day in your life, so you see your strengths and weaknesses improve in all areas on a continual basis. I would tell them to take their leadership skills to another level by understanding who they are and who they aspire to be.
Who has been your support system?
My family and my teachers were always supportive throughout my journey. I strongly believe in order to be great in life it takes a village of people encouraging and lifting you every day to achieve what you may not feel you are able or ready to accomplish.
What was the most challenging part of your journey?
The most challenging part of my student journey was working across time zones with my peers to get the work complete that we were assigned for groups. Needless to say, we always got it done and on time! I would also say learning the global and cultural ideals that I must face to be more successful was new to me. I must get better in these areas of expertise.
Who or what inspires you to succeed?
My children inspire me to succeed because I want them to have the childhood and entry into adulthood I did not have as a young girl. My peers, who push themselves to succeed, and those people who have been instrumental in my professional growth thus far, my past and current leaders also inspire me.
What is one fun fact about you?
A fun fact about me would be that I love to eat – I mean love to eat! I love seafood and I love pasta. My new favorite show is “Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat,” which talks about the four elements of food that make it so tasty. I want to be a chef too, one day!
Are you a graduate of Florida Tech’s 100% online degree programs? We would love to share your success story in our Student Spotlight series. Contact us at studentspotlight@bisk.com for additional details.
