Analytics and problem-solving have long motivated Trent Gould, a dual-degree graduate student pursuing the full-time MBA and a master’s in business analytics at the University of Kansas. After earning his undergraduate degree in computer science, Gould set out to build a career at the intersection of technology, data, and business. 

Gould chose KU for opportunity, including his selection as a Self Engineering Leadership Fellow (SELF), a competitive program for high-achieving engineering and computer science students interested in leadership and innovation. Through SELF, he was introduced to the MBA engineering bridge program, which allowed him to begin graduate business coursework during his final year as an undergraduate.

His leadership skills were tested during his junior year when he served as project manager for SELF on the Road, leading a group of 40 students on a weeklong professional development trip to Portland. Managing logistics, budgets, and real-world challenges gave Gould firsthand experience in project management, decision-making, and accountability under pressure.

Drawn by the chance to broaden his perspective, Gould committed to dual master’s degrees in business administration and business analytics. He values the KU School of Business’ collaborative, discussion-based environment, where small class sizes and faculty support allow students from varied professional backgrounds to learn from one another and apply concepts in practical ways.

Gould’s academic performance and work ethic earned him the 2025–26 Madison and Lila Self Memorial Scholarship, awarded to just four graduate students in the KU School of Business. The recognition affirmed his commitment to an ambitious course load and long-term career preparation focused on leadership and impact.

Looking ahead, Gould is exploring consulting and other roles that allow him to integrate business strategy with technical expertise. His goal is to be equally fluent in both worlds, bringing a balanced, cross-disciplinary perspective that positions him to lead in data-driven organizations.