Shannon Borden

Tell us about your career as a professional Muay Thai fighter.

I suffered a debilitating hip injury in high school. My doctor suggested that I work out in order to prevent relapse. I tried going to the gym but was quickly bored by treadmills, bikes, and aerobics classes. A friend suggested I try Muay Thai. I did, became addicted, and had my first fight three months later. I lost that fight to a Canadian who was a national champion. I never lost another fight and won two national Muay Thai championships.

And after your fighting career, you became a City of Henderson police officer?

It was during my fighting career that I became a police officer. A friend asked me to test for the Henderson PD with her. I ended up making it through the testing process and became a police officer. I continued fighting while I attended the police academy and throughout field training after the academy. An on-the-job injury ended both my fighting and my police career in 2001. 

How are you enjoying your studies in the dual JD/MBA program?

I am really enjoying the dual JD/MBA program. I am meeting a very diverse group of people in both the JD and MBA programs. It is a broader range of experience and contacts than I expected. The MBA courses are interesting, and I have been learning to step out of my box when it comes to team projects. 

How do you envision your career path following graduation?
I would like to have a career as in-house counsel.  The MBA will not only help me with an in-house counsel position — knowing the business aspect will help me give more tailored advice built around business considerations — but it will also come in handy if I ever decide to open my own practice.