Boardroom: Houston
Position while enrolled: Strategic Planning Advisor, ExxonMobil
Undergraduate studies: Chemical engineering, North Carolina State University
“I’ve been surprised by how much of a bond has been created across cohort teams. The technology enabled seamless communication that has bonded classmates across multiple cities.”
I decided to pursue an MBA to sharpen my business and commercial acumen. With my engineering background, I had experience in multiple technical roles, including leading technical and operations teams. Obtaining an MBA would complement my existing technical competencies by providing a broad business curriculum.
A primary consideration was obtaining an Ivy League education from a top business school and access to world-class faculty and the alumni network. A secondary consideration was the convenience of attending classes in my local city without sacrificing quality of education. Third was the diversity of the student pool from different industries across multiple cities in North and South America. I believe the learning process is enhanced by listening and engaging the different perspectives across industries and nationalities.
The program was key in enabling me to transition roles within my company. During the program I transitioned into the business analysis and reporting organization, which is responsible for near-term and long-term business strategy and planning. In this role, I leverage finance, corporate reporting, and strategy skills acquired during the program.
I really enjoyed Marketing with Professor Manoj Thomas. I had no prior marketing experience and was surprised to find out how much quantitative analysis was involved in the subject, including data analytics, financial analysis, and more. His approach to teaching was also practical and memorable, combining case study methods and the use of learning worksheets to retain and put key marketing frameworks into practice.
I’ve been surprised by how much of a bond has been created across cohort teams. The technology enabled seamless communication that has bonded classmates across multiple cities. I’ve made connections in the program and found friends that I plan to keep in touch with for a long time.
The ability to attend classes in other cities when necessary. I attended classes in Monterrey, Mexico, and in New York. My Houston team also got a chance to visit Los Angeles, Seattle, Washington, Mexico City, and Calgary. It’s an excellent way to build your network, experience new cities, and connect with other classmates.