UNF’s Global MBA program launches alum into international business career

A Jacksonville native who once preferred to stay close to home, Brenna Brisson ('22, '23) never imagined her academic journey would take her across the globe. Today, as a graduate of the University of North Florida's Global MBA program, she credits the experience with transforming her perspective and shaping her career.

When Brisson first enrolled at UNF as a political science major, she was drawn to the campus's natural beauty and the comfort of being near family. Living on campus, she built close friendships with her roommates and embraced the supportive environment.

Everything changed during her senior year in 2021, when she studied abroad in Greece.

"I was always interested in American politics," Brisson said. "But that experience opened my eyes to international politics and different ways of thinking."

Inspired, she enrolled in UNF's Global MBA program, an immersive, multi-country experience designed to give students a global perspective on business.

Her journey began in Germany at Cologne University of Applied Sciences. Arriving months early, Brisson pushed herself outside her comfort zone, navigating a new country on her own before the program began.

"I was nervous at first, but that time helped me build my confidence," she said.

Once the cohort assembles, those nerves quickly gave way to strong connections. With only three women in the program, the group bonded instantly, forming friendships that would last long after the program ended.

The next step took her to Poland, where she spent a rigorous winter semester at the University of Warsaw. With eight courses, the term was academically demanding, filled with presentations, exams and long hours of study.

Her final international destination brought her to Daegu, South Korea, where she studied at Kyungpook National University. With fewer classes, Brisson had more time to immerse herself in the culture. It quickly became her favorite of the countries she visited.

One moment, in particular, left a lasting impression.

After accidentally leaving her phone on the bus, Brisson found herself alone and unable to communicate. A local couple stepped in, using translation apps to help her locate the bus stop and recover her phone. They even paid for a taxi to ensure she made it home safely.

"That experience changed me," Brisson said. "It made me want to be better to others."

She returned to Jacksonville for her final semester, where she welcomed her international classmates to her hometown while completing the most academically challenging portion of the program.

After graduation, Brisson's global experience quickly translated into career success. She secured a role with PGA TOUR's international media team, working with partners around the world on broadcasting rights. Later, leveraging connections made through UNF's Women in Business Society, she joined Terr Innovations, a North Florida-based luxury development company, where she was recently promoted to marketing implementation manager.

As a recipient of the Elizabeth M. Head Global MBA Endowed Fellowship and the Thomas C. Hendrick Study Abroad Endowed Scholarship, Brisson knows the importance of community support.

"Scholarships meant the world to me - literally," she said.

Raised by a single mother alongside her two sisters, Brisson said the financial support not only made her education possible but also opened the door to international experiences that shaped her career and passions.

Now living in Jacksonville, she remains connected to UNF, advocating for students with similar backgrounds.

"All of these experiences made me who I am today," she said.