SNHU Spotlight: Luis Polanco, BS in Business Administration Grad

Luis Polanco ‘23G wanted to further his education, propel his career forward and set a high standard for his children by earning his online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Business Administration in 2023. But before he enrolled at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) to achieve these goals, he said he jumped from school to school, looking for an institution that would be understanding of his needs and responsibilities as a military learner. 

After speaking to an SNHU admission counselor, Polanco knew SNHU was the place for him. Having served nine years in the U.S. Army, Polanco said he feels SNHU not only understands military learners but appreciates them. 

At the 2023 SNHU Commencement ceremony, Polanco traveled from Sicklerville, New Jersey, with his family, who are a major inspiration in his life. A first-generation college graduate, Polanco said the responsibility was nerve-wracking at first, but he wanted to set a high standard for his children and encourage them to go even further.   

“Hopefully, in the next 18 years, my son and my daughter will also be up here graduating," he said. 

At the Commencement ceremony, Polanco represented his achievements and history by wearing Latino and first-generation stoles along with cords from his nine years of military service, and his status as an honor student and his membership in The National Society of Leadership and Success. After crossing the finish line and receiving his degree, Polanco said it felt amazing. 

Currently working as a recruiter for a retail company, Polanco said he hopes to use his degree to continue moving forward and to further his career. 

“I have a better understanding of the business aspects and models now,” he said. 

With the extensive research and insights he has acquired, Polanco noted that he has a fuller understanding of business and can offer insights of his own. 

Polanco said everything has changed from the beginning of his program to his graduation — his mindset, his eagerness to learn and his willingness to pursue knowledge has all been impacted by his time at SNHU. 

“I feel like SNHU has given me a brighter outlook on what I should be doing with life,” he said.

Abigayle Mahnken ’22 is an assistant content writer at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), where she earned a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in English and is currently earning a Master of Arts (MA) in English and Creative Writing. Passionate about storytelling and education, she enjoys learning from fellow students' experiences and sharing their stories. In her free time, she loves spending time with her family, reading, and learning. She also really likes video games. Connect with her on LinkedIn.