Finding Her Path: How Eller's MSM Program Helped Paige Schlobohm Build on Her Passions
For Paige Schlobohm ’25 MSM, the journey to graduate school wasn't a straight line. After completing her bachelor’s degree in Anthropology with a minor in Pre-Law at the University of Arizona in 2023, she took a year to reflect on her next steps. That year of consideration led her to Eller College of Management Master of Science in Marketing program, where she found the perfect intersection of her passions.
During her time as an undergraduate student, Schlobohm discovered her love for museums and gallery spaces through classes, professors and volunteer work. She also served as a resident assistant, developing community among hundreds of incoming first-year students and creating educational programs centered around personal growth, responsibility, and connection.
When researching graduate programs, Paige found that Eller was ranked among the top programs with world-class professors and professional growth opportunities.
"Pursuing a graduate degree in marketing allows me to connect my passion for museums and galleries with my love of building community and connection," she explains. "I believe that marketing, when used effectively, can open the world of museums to people of all backgrounds and walks of life, facilitating the development of community and sharing of knowledge across cultures and generations."
These experiences laid the groundwork for her current role as a student gallery manager in the Lionel Rombach and Joseph Gross Galleries with the School of Art, where she puts her marketing education into practice.
"I knew Eller would give me the tools I need to succeed in my future," she says. "The outstanding faculty at Eller bring such unique and diverse expertise and experience into the classroom that offers students a one-of-a-kind learning experience."
Beyond classroom learning, Schlobohm values Eller's career coaching, networking opportunities, and internship connections that prepare students for successful post-graduate careers.
"As someone who came into the MSM program with zero marketing or business education, Eller and the MSM program have laid the groundwork for me to enter my professional career with confidence and the skills to back it up."
Despite not having the undergraduate business background that many of her peers share, Schlobohm quickly found a supportive community within her MSM cohort.
"My fellow MSM students have created a network of connections I will value for the rest of my professional career," she shares. "From group work to in-class discussions, each of us offer a unique perspective and understanding of the world that has impacted my learning just as much as my professors."
In 2024, Schlobom’s family faced medical challenges that shifted her perspective on school, work and family priorities. During this difficult time, she received the Douglas Paddison Memorial Scholarship, which became a turning point.
"It was a reminder of my potential and a solidifying factor in my decision to return and finish my degree," she reflects. "The timing was so powerful, and it gave me the encouragement and practical support I needed to push through a difficult period."
She credits Eller with teaching her adaptability and resilience. "Eller has given me the tools I need to face both professional and personal obstacles with flexibility, motivation, and resilience."
Currently in the middle of her internship search, Schlobohm is applying to galleries and museums throughout Arizona, eager to put her new marketing skills into practice.
"As someone who came into the MSM program with zero marketing or business education, Eller and the MSM program have laid the groundwork for me to enter my professional career with confidence and the skills to back it up," she says.
For students just starting their college careers, Paige offers this advice: "Find what you love and pursue it! Your path may not be everyone else's and that's okay. You get to forge your own way in the world, do it with purpose and you might just be surprised where you land."
She also emphasizes the importance of building connections and saying "yes" to new opportunities. "It always pays off to expand your comfort zone and practice open-mindedness in both your personal and professional life."