Like Father, Like Son

For many, taking the next step in their educational journey can be intimidating. But for two recent graduates of the Master of Business Administration program, the stress is lessened for a very special reason: It’s a family affair.

Oswaldo Ortiz Sr. and his son, Oswaldo Ortiz Jr., enrolled in the part-time MBA at the same time and took the same courses.

“I thought this program would be a great opportunity for my dad and I to learn together and spend time together,” says Ortiz Jr. “It’s great to get this time with my dad because you get less and less time with your parents as you transition to the professional workforce. It also helps us both grow professionally, too.”

While Ortiz Jr. attended the program after finishing his bachelor’s at UT Dallas, Ortiz Sr. picked up graduate school after earning his bachelor’s degree from the Autonomous Metropolitan University in Mexico City in 1995.

By navigating a graduate academic program together, the pair have solidified their bonds, learned from one another, and grown alongside each other as they worked toward their fall 2024 graduation.

“I am thankful for our time here at UT Arlington,” says Ortiz Jr. “This has been an amazing opportunity for us. My dad and I have definitely made a lot of milestones in this program.”