Since Dag Seim launched his career in 1985, the business landscape has significantly changed. Back then, a degree wasn’t needed to break into the finance industry. Originally from Norway, Seim dropped out of the University of Bergen for a job as a foreign exchange trainee and junior dealer at Christiania Bank in Oslo. He primarily ran the bank’s telex machine, but leveraged his experience to land promotions at currency exchange companies in Frankfurt, Vienna, and New York City.
Seim has succeeded without a formal education but decided to enroll in Robinson’s online B.B.A. program as a finance major. He graduates in May.
“I worked 30 years in foreign currency exchange and don’t need to move ahead in my career,” he said. “I’m earning the degree so I can learn something to carry into retirement.”
In today’s market, telex machines are as rare as job opportunities for people without a degree. Seim understands the necessity for young professionals to gain academic credentials and encouraged his three children to attend college.
The online program allows Seim to study while traveling to visit family in Norway as well as his kids, who live in three different U.S. cities. His classmates inspire him with their ambition, often working one or two jobs while remaining committed to school.
“The online B.B.A is on the cutting-edge of education’s evolution, with virtual offerings for students who can’t be on campus every day,” Seim said. “It’s never too late to earn a degree, and Robinson makes it possible through this fantastic program.”
Seim and his sons joke about enrolling in a graduate program together. While he has no concrete plans to earn a master’s or Ph.D., anything is possible.