MSM Student Spotlight: Sophie Zabell

Sophie Zabell (MSM ‘25) graduated from the MS Management program last summer. She is currently working on obtaining her JD at Stetson University College of Law. 

Q: Tell us about yourself. 

Zabell: “My name is Sophie Zabell. I am originally from Washington State, but moved to Florida in 2022 when I transferred to UF from American University.”

Q: What was your undergraduate major, and why the MS Management program? 

Zabell: “My undergraduate major was International Studies, and I earned a minor in European Union studies. I enrolled in Hough’s MS Management program to introduce myself to core business principles and learn practical skills that will support a career in business.”

Q: What is the best thing you like about the MS Management program, and how has the program helped you professionally? 

 Zabell: “My favorite part of the MS Management program was the opportunity to participate in the Global Immersion Experience last October, in Budapest, Hungary. There, I was able to learn about the nexus of my undergraduate major and my graduate course of study. I also gained experience presenting in a business environment and strengthened international networking connections.” 

Q: What are your plans now that you have graduated? 

Zabell: “Now that I have graduated, I’m pursuing my J.D. at Stetson University College of Law.” 

Q: What is your advice to other undergraduate students looking at the MS Management program? 

Zabell: “For undergraduate students looking at the MS Management program, I recommend looking at extracurricular activities in the graduate school that you may wish to be a part of early. It is easier to maintain that involvement throughout the program than trying to get involved later on. Also, consider how the program can be applied to your long term career goals and find opportunities to focus on getting specific experiences in that area. I knew I was going to pursue a career in law when I was applying to the MSM program, so I chose to take a few law-related courses as electives. This demonstrated how the MSM degree can support my future career.”

Q: Tell us a cool fact about yourself.

Zabell: “After I moved to Florida to attend UF, my little sister and parents wanted a taste of Gator Nation and sunshine, so they have all made the move too!”