Originally published on June 26, 2019.
Before attending Southern Utah University, William Taylor earned his undergraduate degree in exercise and wellness and worked at a treatment center for youth for two years. William decided it was time to further his education and saw SUU as a great opportunity to earn his master of business administration in order to pursue his dream of owning a business.
While working towards his MBA at SUU, William purchased a local gym. With multiple responsibilities, William said that prioritizing his goals was a struggle. “It is important to keep the goals we have for our lives at the forefront of our minds. For me, running and growing my current business has been the focus of my daily life. At times, I have felt guilty for taking so long to finish or not moving at the pace of others, however I have to ground myself and remember my priorities.”
Despite these challenges William had a great support system at SUU. He credits MBA professors Jared Miller, Ken Hall and Tyler Stillman for playing a key role in helping him assess the business and negotiate the initial purchase.
“Those professors have all had a profound impact on my life,” said William. “Each taught me unique things, and most importantly, has taken the time to sit with me one-on-one on numerous occasions to talk through ideas that go beyond the scope of any one class.”
William currently owns and operates two crossfit gyms, one in Cedar City and one in St. George. “Our mission is to empower the lives of our members and give them the tools to live happy, healthy lives.” said William. His favorite part of the job is helping people achieve things they viewed as previously impossible. “It is an awesome thing to have someone join our gyms and have no idea they can run a mile or do a pull-up and within weeks we can get them to do it.”
“I run a much better and more profitable business due to the things I have learned at SUU,” said William. “The things I learned here have helped me become a better thinker and have the tools necessary to be successful.”
“SUU has been a culture that cares for its students and can be life changing if you embrace your time and take full advantage of every opportunity.”
Learn more about SUU’s MBA program.
Tags: Alumni School of Business MBA
