Exploring creativity and leadership opens doors you may never expect.
At UMBC, students in the Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Leadership (EIL) M.P.S. program gain important skills. These skills help increase their confidence. They also expand their vision.
In this episode of UMBC Mic’d Up, Thomas Jasmine, M.P.S. ’24, shares his experience. He explains how the program helped him blend his passion for music and media. This has led him to a wider path in entrepreneurship.
Responses have been lightly edited for clarity while preserving the speaker’s intent.
Choosing UMBC for Graduate Study
Dennise:
What inspired you to pursue your master’s degree in entrepreneurship at UMBC?
Thomas Jasmine:
I never expected to continue my education. The UMBC community encouraged me to explore new possibilities. Faculty and staff pushed me to consider graduate school.
When I discovered the Entrepreneurship, Innovation & Leadership program, I realized it offered a creative approach unlike a traditional MBA. That difference resonated with me and my entrepreneurial mindset.
Building a Media Career with Entrepreneurial Tools
Dennise:
Can you share what you’re doing now and how your degree supports that?
Thomas Jasmine:
I describe myself as a media specialist. My foundation is in music technology, but I also expanded into videography, podcasting, and photography.
The EIL program gave me the structure and skills to grow these creative pursuits into a sustainable business.
Storytelling as the Heart of Entrepreneurship
Dennise:
What draws you to storytelling, videography, and podcasting?
Thomas Jasmine:
Storytelling is powerful because everyone has a unique perspective. Podcasting and videography let me create spaces where people feel comfortable. Capturing stories in motion fulfills me and strengthens my connection to others.
Adapting to a Post-Pandemic World
Dennise:
How has COVID-19 shifted people’s comfort with being on camera?
Thomas Jasmine:
Before the pandemic, people were hesitant in front of cameras. Now, after years of online work, people are more comfortable sharing virtually.
That shift also encouraged me to step in front of the camera more, which helped me build confidence in telling my own story.
Expanding Professional Goals Beyond Music
Dennise:
What were your goals before the program, and how have they changed?
Thomas Jasmine:
Initially, I only wanted to be a music producer. The EIL program opened my eyes to a bigger picture. I now see myself building a multimedia complex and even exploring project management opportunities.
These new directions complement and strengthen my entrepreneurial goals.
Faculty and Mentors Who Inspire Growth
Dennise:
Can you share a class or experience that impacted you deeply?
Thomas Jasmine:
The professors stood out because they were entrepreneurs themselves. They shared real-time projects, deals, and investments. Carol Bogash reshaped how I thought about teamwork.
Carl Douglas became a mentor and poured invaluable knowledge into me and my business. Their mentorship changed the way I see myself as an entrepreneur.
The Power of Mentorship in Leadership
Dennise:
How did mentorship play a role in your journey?
Thomas Jasmine:
Mentorship is critical. I actively sought mentors, and their guidance transformed my career. I also believe in paying it forward. Once you benefit from mentorship, it’s important to mentor others and strengthen the next generation.
Practical Skills to Explore New Possibilities
Dennise:
What practical skills did you gain from the EIL program?
Thomas Jasmine:
I learned financial tools, project management, and marketing strategies. These are essential for entrepreneurs who often self-teach through social media.
The program gave me proven resources and concepts. Learning with other entrepreneurs added energy and fresh ideas. It truly created an environment where iron sharpens iron.
Applying Lessons to Real-World Ventures
Dennise:
Have you applied what you learned to your business?
Thomas Jasmine:
Absolutely. I already owned my business, Soul Vision LLC, and applied lessons as I learned them. Marketing strategies made a huge impact.
For example, I now target wedding clients by promoting during engagement season and graduation clients during spring. These changes increased bookings and revenue.
Strengthening Leadership and Innovation
Dennise:
How has the program shaped your leadership and innovation?
Thomas Jasmine:
It unlocked my creativity and helped me differentiate myself. I also developed stronger leadership tools—listening better, valuing people, and fostering collaboration.
I learned from Amazon and Microsoft how to create workplaces where people feel invested.
Next Steps After Graduation
Dennise:
What’s next for you after graduation?
Thomas Jasmine:
I’m finishing my final season DJing with UMBC, while also pursuing opportunities with Carnival Cruise Lines. I may take a corporate role in project management to broaden my skills and secure resources for my business.
The degree gave me the flexibility to apply my knowledge anywhere and see the world as full of possibilities.
Advice for Future Entrepreneurs
Dennise:
What advice would you give prospective students?
Thomas Jasmine:
The program is what you make of it. The more effort you put in, the more you gain. I built lasting connections with classmates and professors, even outside class.
If you have big dreams or ideas, this program can help you explore new options and take them further than you thought.
Conclusion
The Entrepreneurship, Innovation & Leadership program at UMBC provides students with the tools, confidence, and mentorship to transform their careers. Thomas’s story shows that the program does more than prepare graduates for jobs. It helps them explore new options and create meaningful futures.
Watch the full recorded podcast on YouTube!
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