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Not many would make the parallel with basketball and project management, but Lady Bears senior Lee Ann Polowy did just that.
“What gives you success in basketball also will give you success in project management,” said the Jefferson City native. “Time management, leadership, energy positive, cohesion you need for teamwork is really key in project management.”
Polowy plays her role on the court and is paving a trail off it. On Friday she became the first female at Missouri State University to graduate with a degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology and did so with honors.
“I think of it as an advantage because there’s not a lot of people like me, so might as well use it to your advantage,” said Polowy, who took 18 credit hours last semester.
Polowy came to MSU for basketball, but quickly realized her future was elsewhere.
“Basketball is going to end at some point, so how am I going to get that little niche that I need that gets me going in the morning,” said Polowy.
That niche is building robots and designing projects through a combination of high-level math and physics; something she’s excelled at her entire life.
She’s also excelled at three-point shooting in her college career (14-28 3-pt FG this season). On Saturday Polowy came off the bench to hit four 2nd half three-pointers, setting a new career high with 12 points.
Not many fans in the stands would equate that kind of athletic ability with her off-court talents.
“I don’t think she fits the typical description of project management,” said Lady Bears head coach Kellie Harper. “She is a very social, outgoing young lady, who’s into fashion. I think she’s just a unique personality and she’s a good one.”
Polowy picked up her undergraduate degree in three-and-a-half years despite entering college with zero credits. She’s on track to get her master’s degree later this spring and has already accepted a professional position with a project management firm in St. Louis.
But before all that, she’s got three more months of basketball and spending time with her beloved teammates.
“(it’s been) unforgettable,” said Polowy. “I couldn’t ask for a better experience with the people. My teammates are amazing, my class in particular, we’ll be lifelong friends.”
And despite a difficult non-conference schedule, Polowy believes the Lady Bears are on track for their goal of winning a Missouri Valley Conference title.
“She always puts the team first,” said Harper. “She wants to win more than anything. I think that’s the great quality of a teammate.”
And a great employer.
NOTE: Polowy was a three-time all-state selection at Blair Oaks High School where she is the career leader in points (1,912) and 3-pointers (210).
