“It feels like home.”
That’s how any business school should feel. It should be a place that brings out who you are…at your best. It is a space that embodies how you see the world – a retreat that brings comfort, confirmation and a camaraderie with those around you. The sights, sounds, and smells are more than background drapery: They are imbued with memories that foster a profound connection between student and community.
For the Class of 2020, Washington University’s Olin Business School already feels like home – a time to safely find their identity and a place they can truly make their own. Felicia Kola-Amodu, who has already made the rugged transition from journalist to business manager, calls it a “sense of ownership” that’s woven into the culture. Bruno Moreira Yamamura, who made a similar leap from engineering to marketing, touts the program’s “intimate community,” one steeped with a “feeling of belonging and inclusion. More important, Moreira Yamamura adds, Olin is a place where you’ll never be overlooked.
“I didn’t want to be just a number,” he says, “but a valued member of the program.”
Olin MBAs listening to a speaker.
GETTING TO KNOW PEOPLE ON A DEEPER LEVEL
Richard Obiora seconds this sentiment. A “gritty visionary” with a background in political science, Obiora believes that this tone is set by a tested structure as much as a consciously-crafted culture. “I chose Olin Business School because of its emphasis on small class sizes and commitment to diversity,” he explains. “At Olin, you can get to know your classmates, professors, and faculty on a deeper level. When I attended Admitted Student’s Weekend, I was amazed at the presentation that Assistant Dean Ruthie Pyles Stiffler delivered. She took the time to learn every admitted student’s story, and from memory highlighted what makes us unique and why Olin is a great fit. At that moment I knew I would not only be getting a top MBA degree, but also gaining a family.”
Among this family, you’ll find impressive characters across the spectrum. Abraham Kola-Amodu is a “published author with a knack for business, travelling, photography and farming.” While Kola-Amodu is a poet, Brinda Gupta expresses herself as an Odissi classical dancer: a dance form that illustrates religious stories and tenets – and is regarded as the oldest form of dance in India. Compare that to Justin Smith, a former Green Berets captain in the U.S. Army who’ll be returning to service after graduation.
Their career paths are equally diverse. Bruno Moreira Yamamura, “an engineer by training and an entrepreneur at heart,” comes to St. Louis after finally taking his family online in 2014. Now, eCommerce accounts for a third of the revenue. At the University of Utah, Kris Fenn turned around the Alternative Breaks program, where students would complete volunteer projects during fall and spring break (not to mention weekends). Focusing more on programming devoted to community partnerships, diversity and impact, his staff took home the university’s Program of the Year in 2014. Before he was a financial analyst, Shaun Brij Vaid was once a TV star…well, he appeared in a Pepsi commercial with Kyrie Irving for the Uncle Drew spot. However, he really became a star when he worked on a project for the State of Tennessee, to reduce the number of Emergency Department walk-outs (i.e. patients who leave without receiving care).
“Through this new process, we reduced walk-outs by 77%,” he shares. “I remember that on the second day of our pilot, one of the nurses entered the war room and excitedly told us that the new process we implemented saved somebody’s life. That project crystallized the reason why I love working in healthcare.”
Olin Exterior
CLASS DEFINED BY CURIOSITY AND HUMILITY
Such experiences also led the 2020 Class to pursuing an MBA. Erik Andrew, an operations officer with the U.S. Marine Corps, hopes to “sharpen the hard skills” he’ll need to become a more “well-rounded” leader. For Justin Smith, who aspires to be a U.S. Army Major, an MBA offers the best training for what he needs most as a Major: The ability to “think strategically and frame problem sets from many different perspectives.” Then again, the MBA is the means for Jessica Sanchez Chavez to receive the respect that has often eluded her.
“It was the frustration of not being listened to by others,” she admits. “I have always had a strong voice, and I have worked very hard to sustain it on solid arguments. Having been in positions in which I was ignored because I was at a lower level challenged me to for more. I had to work hard to figure out the way, but I knew I was able to get through it.”
Classmate caliber is one reason why the MBA amplifies the value and reputation of graduates. By that measure, you can expect an impressive graduating class when raw talents are transformed into polished performers. Brinda Gupta, for one, is impressed by how curious her classmates are. “During lectures, I am always impressed by the quality of questions my classmates ask. They challenge preconceived notions, continually try to find the most innovative ways to solve problems, and consider diverse perspectives when proposing solutions.”
Belonging is another adjective that gets tossed around with the class. Just ask Felicia Kola-Amodu, who is secure that there will always be someone there to bring up her day. “It’s great walking in the hallway feeling overwhelmed and your classmates call out to you saying, “We’ll get through this!”
Olin MBAs preparing for a competition.
However, Shaun Brij Vaid finds a different virtue defines his first year peers: Humble. “I am surrounded by people who have served their country, generated millions in value for their previous employers, and climbed the socioeconomic ladder,” he explains, “yet I have not once gotten the sense that any of my peers, despite their incredible accomplishments, view themselves as more deserving or better than their classmates. It is a privilege to be in a class with so many smart, innovative thinkers who are willing to listen to each other and collaborate to find the best solutions to complex problems.”
PERCENTAGE OF WOMEN CLIMBS TO 42%
It is also a class that closely resembles its predecessors in some ways. It includes 135 members, 10 less than the previous class. That may be a product of two factors. First, the school received 59 fewer applications. That said, the school accepted nearly 100 fewer applications, resulting in the acceptance rate falling seven points to 33%. In other words, it will likely be harder for applicants to get into Olin going forward.
Despite fewer applications, the academic quality remained high. While the average GMAT fell a point to 693, median GMAT held steady at 700. GMATs also rose slightly (Average 3.47 vs. 3.45) and (Median 3.52 vs. 3.42). Demographically, the growth of women were the biggest change. The 2020 Class broke the coveted 40 mark, with women comprising 42% of the class. At the same time, the percentage of minority students climbed from 19% to 22%. During the 2017-2018 cycle, many graduate business programs witnessed a decline in international students – and Olin was no different. This year, 31% of the class hails from overseas, down seven points from years previous.
The percentage of women, in particular, appealed to Kris Fenn. who listed it as a key metric in choosing the school. “I am thrilled to be a member of the 2020 class which houses the highest percentage of women Olin has ever seen. This is merely one data point that indicates the commitment Olin’s administration, staff, and faculty have to supporting diverse representation. During Women’s Weekend, Olin’s leadership talked openly about gender equity (among other equity topics) and explained their strategy for empowering individuals to address systemic disparities. The concepts of identity and inclusion were integrated into our orientation, and the students chosen for this program value this asset of our community.”
Dean Mark Taylor with students.
A FLEXIBLE CURRICULUM AND A BEEFED UP CAREER SERVICES
Academically, the class earned undergraduate degrees in a wide range of fields. Business and Social Sciences represent the largest segments of the class at 26% each. Technically, STEM majors are the biggest bloc, however. Combined, Engineering (21%) and Natural Sciences (11%) take up 32% of class seats. At the same time, Economics (10%), and Humanities (6%) make up the rest of the class. Professionally, the school doesn’t report the industry backgrounds of its first years.
Like any home, the Olin Business School requires renovation. Let’s just say Dean Mark Taylor is doing far more than a fresh paint job according to a 2018 interview with P&Q, Taking a page out of the London Business School, Taylor shares that his team is making the MBA more flexible, with departure options ranging from 14 months to 2 years. The goal, he says, will be to “accelerate their studies and enter the workforce faster, or combine their MBA training with a specialized master’s degree in accounting, finance, business analytics, or supply chain management.”
Taylor also reveals that program was beefing up its career center staff by a third, with staffers now found on the east and coasts – and China too. “One highlight of the past 12 months is a top-to-bottom restructuring of Olin Business School’s Weston Career Center” he tells P&Q in a September statement. “In partnership with Boston Consulting Group—which independently engaged with students and recruiters to understand their needs while conducting a competitive analysis—Olin implemented sweeping changes aimed at better aligning support for students, capitalizing on emerging employment trends, and providing a singular point of contact for students throughout their Olin career. The restructuring centralized Olin’s corporate relations and business development to further generate and expand existing career opportunities across industries, functions, and the globe.”
An Olin MBA classroom.
REQUIRED GLOBAL IMMERSION AHEAD
“The global” is critical for Dean Taylor, who hopes his legacy includes making Olin “the most international program in the world.” That will start with a mandatory six week global immersion to kick off the program. “Students starting Olin’s full-time MBA in 2019 will embark on the nation’s – and possibly the world’s – richest global experience in business education,” he explains. “Our newly redesigned program, well into the planning stages, will take beginning MBA students around the world at the start of their studies. They’ll become deeply grounded in the principles of business management and leadership—but they’ll do it in the context of a series of global experiences.”
How will it work? Well, Dean Taylor has it already plotted out. “They’ll spend a week emerged in the intersection of business and policy at the Brookings Institution in Washington, DC, leveraging a partnership with the world’s premier think-tank that’s unique in business education,” he writes. “They’ll spend two weeks in Barcelona, following by 17 days in Shanghai, learning core business principles in the morning and applying them to real-world situations through team projects, in-depth research, and engagement with corporate partners on the ground. They’ll return to the WashU campus with an appreciation for how business works—and leadership decisions are affected—by the global context in which they work.”
Such global programming will only increase the program’s appeal to incoming students like Lizaveta Miadzvedskaya, a Belarus native who studied chemistry as an undergrad. “As a first-generation immigrant, I have first-hand experience navigating two different cultures and have found that understanding a culture can completely change the world of opportunities for an individual or a company. I chose Olin because its programs, diverse student body, and study abroad opportunities will allow me to gain the cultural competency that I need to succeed in my career.”
ST. LOUIS, HERE WE COME!
Olin MBA students in a conference room.
What does Dean Taylor that applicants knew more about? That would come down to the program’s rich tradition – and broader vision for the future. While he wouldn’t characterize the program as “underrated,” Dean Taylor does consider it more “understated.”
“From our beginning in 1917, Olin has been a leading influence on business, cultivating leaders who make decisions based on their individual, corporate, or societal values—grounded in their rich analysis of the data and the evidence,” he adds. “With the launch of our strategic plan in 2017, we’ve made a bold claim on what’s always been in our DNA: That we develop business leaders skilled at applying that appreciation for data and values—creating change, for good.”
That’s not to say the program won’t continue to play to its traditional strengths. The investment in the Weston Career Center comes amid the program continuously ranking among the top MBA programs for placement. Within three months of graduation, for example, 97.2% of the Class of 2017 had already landed jobs, with starting pay coming out to $149,407. That school also features an unexpected benefit: St. Louis itself. Home to 10 Fortune 500 firms – including Express Scripts, Centene, Emerson Electric, Monsanto and Edward Jones. On top of that, the Gateway City has emerged as a tech and startup hub, ranking among the top metros for both tech jobs (ZipRecruiter) and young entrepreneurs (Lending Tree).
“The key factor that led me to choose this program was its location in St. Louis,” says Shaun Brij Vaid. “The city has become a center for innovation in the tech industry and continues to make incredible strides in the fight for racial equity.”
CEL A POPULAR DESTINATION
Where is the Class of 2020 starting after arriving on campus? Many are making a b-line to Olin’s Center for Experiential Learning (CEL), where students can apply what they learned in partnership with real companies on real projects. In the process, students are gaining resume-building experience during CEL, with the goal of formulating lasting solutions.
Olin students gather after class.
“You are paired with a company, startup, local nonprofit, or national NGO to dig in and solve critical issues facing their organization,” Kris Fenn explains. “I am excited to work with nonprofits in St. Louis—an area I am quickly falling in love with! I also plan to be a part of the Olin Women in Business organization. They have several exciting initiatives happening around equity and ally ship I am eager to explore.”
This eagerness will soon be turned to startup pursuits. Looking ahead, Erik Andrew, for example, plans to start a business that serves the St. Louis community. Felicia Kola-Amodu’s plans are even bigger, as she is already laying plans for her “Adopt a Child’s Education” non-profit. More personally, Bruno Moreira Yamamura is dreaming of stepping out of the family business and launching a startup of his own.
For her part, Jessica Sanchez Chavez hopes to become an example for what others can achieve.
“I see myself in a recognized position, managing a great team and solving complex problems. Every MBA’s dream, right? I want to do different things that I’m really passionate about at my job, and I see myself transmitting that to others.”
What led these professionals to enter business schools? Which programs did they also consider? What strategies did they use to choose their MBA program? What was the major event that defined them? Find the answers to these questions and many more in the in-depth profiles of these incoming MBA candidates.
DON’T MISS: MEET THE MBA CLASS OF 2020: PROFILES IN COURAGE
| Student |
Hometown |
Alma Mater |
Last Employer |
| Erik Andrew |
St. Louis, MO |
University of Missouri |
US Marine Corps |
| Kris Fenn |
Salt Lake City, UT |
Wesleyan College |
University of Utah (Eccles School of Business) |
| Brinda Gupta |
Naperville, IL |
Saint Louis University |
Washington University (Brown School) |
| Abraham Kola-Amodu |
Lagos, Nigeria |
Bowen University |
KPMG |
| Felicia Kola-Amodu |
Oyo, Nigeria |
Bowen University |
Enterprise Holdings |
| Lizaveta Miadzvedskaya |
Krichev, Belarus |
University of Texas-Dallas |
Baker Botts |
| Bruno Moreira Yamamura |
São Paulo, Brazil |
University of Campinas |
Ponta Iluminação |
| Richard Obiora |
Atlanta, GA |
Emory University |
Logicworks |
| Claudia Ortiz Albert |
Valencia, Spain |
Campbell University |
Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria S.A. |
| Jessica Sanchez Chavez |
Havana, Cuba |
University of Havana |
Citibank |
| Justin Smith |
Granite City, IL |
Southern Illinois University |
United States Army |
| Shaun Brij Vaid |
St. Louis, MO |
George Washington University |
BJC Healthcare |
Erik Andrew
“I am a passionate, outgoing, and positive leader focused on results and team building.”
Hometown: St. Louis, Missouri
Fun Fact About Yourself: I love making beer and cooking for my family and friends.
Undergraduate School and Major: University of Missouri – Columbia; Secondary Education-Language Arts
Most Recent Employer and Job Title: US Marine Corps, Recruiting Station Operations Officer
Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: The accomplishment I am most proud of is successfully leading a team of Marines on deployment to Helmand Province, Afghanistan. This opportunity afforded me the chance to serve my country while developing the leadership skills I plan to use during and after business school.
What quality best describes the MBA classmates you’ve met so far and why? The quality that comes to mind in describing my MBA classmates is eager. Everyone in the class embraces the community at Olin and is excited to begin the journey.
Aside from your classmates, what was the key factor that led you to choose this program for your full-time MBA and why was it so important to you? Olin’s sense of community, support, and focus on developing their students into responsible citizens who have a strong values base led me to choose this program. The holistic approach to ensuring student success will create a well-rounded business leader able to think critically and act ethically.
What club or activity are you looking most forward to in business school? I am proud to be a member of the Olin Veterans Association.
What led you to pursue an MBA at this point in your career? While I have a background in leadership and management, I wanted the chance to develop and sharpen the “hard” skills that will help me be a more well-rounded business leader.
How did you decide if an MBA was worth the investment? When looking at the business landscape across my target area, it became clear to me that a solid educational foundation was essential for continued growth. The investment in an MBA program reaps significant dividends beyond the bottom line: the network of community, business leaders, and peers also add to the value of this investment.
What other MBA programs did you apply to? None.
How did you determine your fit at various schools? N/A
What was your defining moment and how did it shape who you are? My defining moment was when I decided I wanted to serve my country as a US Marine. This goal and the achievement of it has defined who I am as a person by allowing me to express my desire to give back to this country in a big way. Volunteerism and service have always been a big part of my life, and that decision instilled in me the confidence that I can accomplish whatever I set out to do.
What do you plan to do after you graduate? I am interested in either working in consulting or in an entrepreneurial-focused small or medium sized business.
Where do you see yourself in five years? I would love to eventually own my own business that works within and for the St. Louis community!
Kris Fenn
“Recovering public sector groupie, ready to explore the intersection between strategy and human capital.”
Hometown: Salt Lake City, Utah
Fun Fact About Yourself: I dig true crime podcasts and documentaries.
Undergraduate School and Major:
Bachelor of Arts in Women’s Studies: Wesleyan College, Macon GA
Master of Public Administration: University of Utah
Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Program Manager, David Eccles School of Business, University of Utah
Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: I led the University of Utah Alternative Breaks team in restructuring and building their program to focus on stronger community partnerships, measurable impact, and diversity and inclusion programming. As a result, we were named “Program of the Year” in 2014.
What quality best describes the MBA classmates you’ve met so far and why? Generous: My classmates are willing to go above and beyond to make you feel welcome, explain a concept, or deeply explore a tough case study.
Aside from your classmates, what was the key factor that led you to choose this program for your full-time MBA and why was it so important to you? I developed a matrix to compare programs, and WashU consistently delivered on my priorities. While career placement, average salary, and the program’s academic rigor narrowed my list to 15 schools, my highest priority was diverse representation and program culture. I am thrilled to be a member of the 2020 class which houses the highest percentage of women Olin has ever seen. This is merely one data point that indicates the commitment Olin’s administration, staff, and faculty have to supporting diverse representation. During Women’s Weekend, Olin’s leadership talked openly about gender equity (among other equity topics) and explained their strategy for empowering individuals to address systemic disparities. The concepts of identity and inclusion were integrated into our orientation, and the students chosen for this program value this asset of our community. At Olin, I felt at home.
What club or activity are you looking most forward to in business school? Olin’s Center for Experiential Learning projects provide real work experience for real world change. You are paired with a company, startup, local nonprofit, or national NGO to dig in and solve critical issues facing their organization. I am excited to work with nonprofits in St. Louis—an area I am quickly falling in love with! I also plan to be a part of the Olin Women in Business organization. They have several exciting initiatives happening around equity and ally ship I am eager to explore.
What led you to pursue an MBA at this point in your career? I enjoyed my time in the public sector, where I developed a strong sense of my ethics and values through my experience. After finishing a Master Degree in Public Administration and working in the field for another five years, I was struggling to identify future pathways for me that would provide the challenge and growth I craved. I started looking at alternative pathways and industries to apply my experience and skillsets to, and quickly realized that an MBA could help me pivot into the private sector and develop a business acumen.
How did you decide if an MBA was worth the investment? The ROI on an MBA is magnificent, especially for a previous public-sector employee. My decision formula was as follows:
If the following formula proved true, I felt it would be worth it:
(Mean Salary at end of B-School) – (Current Public-Sector Salary) > Anticipated Loans
The ROI is much more than a salary, however. At Olin, specifically, the network of alumni and peers I am instantly connected to was a large factor for me. This community will go out of its way to support and develop its own, and that investment was worth a higher cost for me. Now that I am in and taking courses, I realize the education I am receiving delivers a value above the tuition amount. The faculty both challenge and support us, and the academic rigor expected in the classroom is demanding.
What other MBA programs did you apply to? Notre Dame, University of Illinois, Vanderbilt, Rice
How did you determine your fit at various schools? I looked at school ranking, academic rigor, job placement, average salary, and company placement to start to narrow my search of schools. From there, I looked deeper at the culture and fit with the institution such as a clear focus on inclusion and diversity, social impact initiatives, and the representation of women the school reflected. From there, I frequented Poets & Quants, and researched cultural fit by talking to current and past students. I didn’t have the funds to visit many places, so I gleaned what I could from my interactions with the staff/students, and online resources.
What was your defining moment and how did it shape who you are? In my prior job, one of my responsibilities was creating and delivering diversity and inclusion trainings to students, staff, and faculty. To be able to perform in that arena, I had to do a lot of work on my own personal biases. This process was transformative and served as a catalyst for how I view and interpret the world in a more analytical way. It has shifted my approach to teaming, and how I engage with my community.
What do you plan to do after you graduate? I have some exploring to do. In reflecting on my experience, I thrive at the intersection of strategy and human capital. I am fulfilled when I am building a team, goal-setting, and coaching a team to success. I hope to transfer this passion into the HR strategy and change management field.
Where do you see yourself in five years? My partner and I will definitely have adopted a dog or two, and I anticipate I will be developing the future workforce at an organization or company I resonate with.
Brinda Gupta
School: Olin Business School at Washington University in St. Louis
“It is hard to find me without a smile – I am an energetic, optimistic person.”
Hometown: Naperville, IL
Fun Fact About Yourself: I am an Odissi Indian classical dancer. Odissi is one of the oldest dance forms in India and the world. I have performed in front of more than 2,000 people in my life.
Undergraduate School and Major: Saint Louis University, Public Health
Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis, Program Coordinator
Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: As part of the Coro Fellowship, I worked at the St. Louis County Department of Public Health in partnership with the St. Louis Regional Health Commission for a three-week consulting placement. During this time, I conducted qualitative interviews with stakeholders in the medical field, analyzed census-tract data, and taught myself GIS mapping software. By keeping the perspectives of patients at the center of the project, I was able to tell a story about healthcare in St. Louis. These recommendations will help inform strategic practices and enhance medical care at federally qualified health centers.
What quality best describes the MBA classmates you’ve met so far and why? My classmates are very curious. During lectures, I am always impressed by the quality of questions my classmates ask. They challenge preconceived notions, continually try to find the most innovative ways to solve problems, and consider diverse perspectives when proposing solutions.
Aside from your classmates, what was the key factor that led you to choose this program for your full-time MBA and why was it so important to you? I sought a business school where students are collaborative. In my future career, I will likely work with partners from diverse backgrounds with regards to the sector they work in, personal experiences, and work responsibilities. It is important to be in an environment where I have the opportunity to work with others and understand how to be most effective in teams.
What club or activity are you looking most forward to in business school? I look forward to being a member of Net Impact and Olin Women in Business, and perform at the Diwali show. I am also helping launch a new university-wide Social Policy Institute. The business sector has a large influence on policy in local, state, and national levels and I am excited to contribute to this planning process.
What led you to pursue an MBA at this point in your career? I wanted to take more coursework in areas such as finance and marketing to supplement my background in public health. This will help me become a better-rounded person. I ultimately want to advance my career in healthcare and an MBA program will equip me with the tools to navigate this dynamic, interdisciplinary, and nuanced field.
How did you decide if an MBA was worth the investment? I primarily had informational interviews with MBA students who explained how transformative the experience was. After I attended admissions sessions from universities and learned more about the program structure, I knew it was the right fit for me.
What other MBA programs did you apply to? I applied to Northwestern (Kellogg), Carnegie Mellon (Tepper), Emory (Goizueta), and Yale SOM.
How did you determine your fit at various schools? I spoke with current students and alumni to see how an MBA program prepared them for an internship or the job market. I used tools such as webinars to learn more about specific schools and researched culture through blog posts and personal conversations. I wanted a collaborate school that would have a strong core curriculum, but also gave me the flexibility to take electives in the field I am interested in.
What was your defining moment and how did it shape who you are? I was part of the medical staff at Camp Floyd Rogers, a residential summer camp for more than 100 type 1 diabetic children in Omaha, Nebraska. I aspired to provide the same support to others as campers did with one another. However, I was the only non-diabetic present including medical staff. I had no idea that raspberry glucose tablets were supposed to taste better than orange ones, insulin injection sites rotate, and certain lancets hurt more than others. Additional camp experiences helped me become more empathetic. I gave myself saline injections to show an 8-year-old how to self-administer insulin. I was referred to as a “dia-buddy” when I counted carbohydrates before meals. Campers checked my blood glucose levels after I checked theirs. These meaningful interactions at Camp Floyd Rogers served as a testament to the value of compassion and trust in relationships. Being a medical staff assistant reinforced my interest in healthcare and reminded me to always consider patient perspectives, as I witnessed the individual and collaborative efforts that went into empowering diabetics.
What do you plan to do after you graduate? I would like to work in business development or strategy and innovation for a healthcare organization. I am also exploring healthcare consulting opportunities.
Where do you see yourself in five years? I hope to be leading a business development team in the healthcare sector with a diverse, compassionate team.
Abraham Kola-Amodu
“A published author with a knack for business, travelling, photography and farming.”
Hometown: Lagos, Nigeria
Fun Fact About Yourself: I compose poems in minutes, and dance to beats formed in my head.
Undergraduate School and Major: Bowen University, Nigeria – Agricultural Economics
Washington University in St. Louis – MBA Finance
Most Recent Employer and Job Title: KPMG – (Senior Audit Associate)
Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: Publishing my book.
What quality best describes the MBA classmates you’ve met so far and why? Diverse and well exposed. Everyone seems to have a very captivating story and know a lot about everything.
Aside from your classmates, what was the key factor that led you to choose this program for your full-time MBA and why was it so important to you? I want to build of my accounting background, and get fully launched into finance. Also, the MBA program is an extensive learning process that encompasses business as a whole. I need this to become a C-suite executive.
What club or activity are you looking most forward to in business school? Olin Blog and Public speaking
What led you to pursue an MBA at this point in your career? Delve into the finance world and career advancement.
How did you decide if an MBA was worth the investment? I applied to work with a top Fortune 500 firm that I’d worked with, in another country. When I asked how much my yearly income would be, it was half what an MBA student would get if both offered the job. At that point, I knew the MBA was the next logical step for me to take.
What other MBA programs did you apply to?
- Tepper School of Business
- SC Johnson College of Business
- Goizueta Business School
- Kelly School of Business
How did you determine your fit at various schools?
- School ranking
- City cost of living and reputation
- Warmth and accessibility of current students, alumni and Admin staff.
What was your defining moment and how did it shape who you are? Olin Business School made the mark for me. The students were forthcoming and the faculty and administrative members were quick to respond to emails and made me feel important. Finally, my spouse and I got into the program.
What do you plan to do after you graduate? Join the Leadership Rotation Program of a top firm to have a full grasp of the whole business.
Where do you see yourself in five years? I see myself as a senior finance manager of a top multinational and having published my second book. I should have a startup running also.
Felicia Kola-Amodu
“A Nigerian-raised food and nap connoisseur, always pursuing more knowledge.”
Hometown: Ibadan, Oyo, Nigeria
Fun Fact About Yourself: I mentally edit (grammar and spelling) all messages I get, including texts. I also did my first editing gig on a book, “30 Before 30”.
Undergraduate School and Major: Bowen University, Nigeria (Undergraduate), Indiana University, Bloomington (Graduate)
Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Enterprise Holdings, Manager
Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: Being able to successfully cross over from journalism into B2C (business to consumer) management.
What quality best describes the MBA classmates you’ve met so far and why? Responsibility. My classmates have a huge sense of responsibility for each other. This has created a general sense of belonging for me and I believe, for everyone also. It’s great walking in the hallway feeling overwhelmed and your classmates call out to you saying, “We’ll get through this!”
Aside from your classmates, what was the key factor that led you to choose this program for your full-time MBA and why was it so important to you? There was a sense of ownership of the program and even of the student body with every single person I spoke to. I felt the most comfortable when I came in contact with Olin. The application process was not where it stopped, neither was it at the interview process. The moment I came in contact with Olin after my application submission, they stayed in contact up until now. This told me I was not just a number or just a student. I am a part of a community. I felt that way before I got an admission.
What club or activity are you looking most forward to in business school? I am looking forward to joining the Student Senate for the GBSA. I am also hoping to become an ambassador for Communication @ OLIN. Lastly, I am hoping to join the Admission Committee to help further expand the diversity at OLIN.
What led you to pursue an MBA at this point in your career? I don’t have a traditional business background. After my Master’s degree in Journalism, I went with a career in B2C. Although, I excelled in the last 3 years doing that, I knew there was a level of training I did not have to continue to excel and move wider and farther in my career. An MBA at Olin will give me that training.
How did you decide if an MBA was worth the investment? After starting a new career in sales-B2C management in 2015, my main five-year goal became “Getting my MBA”. I made that decision because I knew that was the career path I wanted to be in. I also knew I was lacking the educational training to thrive long term in that field. I knew that for my long term career goals, there would be costs attached—time, money and a lot of effort. I knew they would all be worth it in the end.
What other MBA programs did you apply to? I applied to Emory University, University of Texas, Austin, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Indiana University.
How did you determine your fit at various schools? I started by looking at the school rankings for their marketing programs. I then narrowed them down by the geographical locations I was interested in. The last thing I did was to connect with some alumni, current students or other representatives of the schools. I did this through LinkedIn and attended events like Forté Women’s.
What was your defining moment and how did it shape who you are? My defining moment was when I lost my dad. I had moved to the US only six months before. Prior to that, I was a daddy’s girl and had mostly done everything leaning on my family. Losing my dad gave me a growth sprout, mentally and emotionally. I became independent even though I still have my family’s support. I began to make use of my dad’s words, “Temi, you can do anything you set your mind to”. All those things brought me to where I am today.
What do you plan to do after you graduate? I want to join a forward-thinking diverse organization, in a B2B (business to business) marketing management role.
Where do you see yourself in five years? In five years, I hope to have been well versed in my career and moving forward. I hope to have registered and pushed forward my not-for-profit “movement” called “Adopt A Child’s Education.”
Lizaveta Miadzvedskaya
School: Olin Business School
“A bookworm, curious traveler, and connoisseur of gluten free foods.”
Hometown: Krichev, Belarus
Fun Fact About Yourself: I ran my first 5K last spring, here in St. Louis— the Color Run!
Undergraduate School and Major: University of Texas at Dallas, Chemistry
Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Baker Botts LLP, Summer Associate
Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: My biggest accomplishment so far is getting to where I am today: being a part of the joint JD/MBA program at Olin and having had the opportunity to spend two summers working with talented professionals at a world-class international law firm.
What quality best describes the MBA classmates you’ve met so far and why? Diverse – My classmates come from many different walks of life and from all over the world. I am honored to have the opportunity to learn from them over the next two years.
Aside from your classmates, what was the key factor that led you to choose this program for your full-time MBA and why was it so important to you? The approach to teaching from a global perspective led me to apply to the Olin MBA program. As a first-generation immigrant, I have first-hand experience navigating two different cultures and have found that understanding a culture can completely change the world of opportunities for an individual or a company. I chose Olin because its programs, diverse student body, and study abroad opportunities will allow me to gain the cultural competency that I need to succeed in my career.
What club or activity are you looking most forward to in business school? I hope to join Olin Cares Club, which allows students to engage more closely with both Washington University and the St. Louis community through donation drives mentorship programs, and other volunteer activities.
What led you to pursue an MBA at this point in your career? Both my experiences as a summer associate and as an InSITE Fellow consulting for St. Louis companies showed me it is very important to understand the client’s business to effectively identify and present the best options to the client. I know that going through the MBA program in addition to my JD will allow me to not only help clients access the risks associated with various legal alternatives but also to help craft creative solutions to accomplishing their objectives within the existing legal and regulatory frameworks.
How did you decide if an MBA was worth the investment?I spent a lot of time working with Olin students over the past two years, speaking with JD/MBA students, and consulting professionals regarding the value of taking an extra year to complete both programs. In the end, everyone I spoke with indicated it was a phenomenal opportunity and that the skills I would gain through the program would open more doors for me down the road.
What other MBA programs did you apply to? I applied only to Olin.
How did you determine your fit at various schools? Prior applying to Olin, I had worked closely with several MBA and JD/MBA students from Olin. This gave me a great deal of insight into the culture and types of learning experiences available at the business school. I did additional research on my own and decided that the combined JD/MBA program at WashU, which allows me to get both degrees in four years, is the best fit for me.
What was your defining moment and how did it shape who you are? Life is full of defining moments, which are equal parts action and reaction: many of the pivotal moments in life are difficult ones, yet they are also the moments that are the most conducive to personal growth and transformation. These types of moments have helped me to become more resourceful, patient, and persistent in working towards my goals. They have also taught me that mistakes and failure are often the early stepping stones to success.
What do you plan to do after you graduate? I plan to continue my legal training after I complete the JD/MBA program, practicing intellectual property law.
Where do you see yourself in five years? I expect to be a much more accomplished attorney, runner, and yogi.
Bruno Moreira Yamamura
“An engineer by training and an entrepreneur at heart.”
Hometown: São Paulo, Brazil
Fun Fact About Yourself: Even though I am from Brazil, I am a descendant of immigrant families from Japan, Portugal, and Italy.
Undergraduate School and Major: University of Campinas, B.S. in Mechanical Engineering
Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Ponta Iluminação, Head of Marketing and Business Development
Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: Over the course of three years, I was able to establish an online store in partnership with the family business (a small lighting and décor store in São Paulo) and maintain a 30% growth per month on average. By the end of 2017, the total sales of the e-commerce platform alone represented about 35% of total revenues of the company (both the storefront and online channels).
What quality best describes the MBA classmates you’ve met so far and why? Diversity in training, experiences, cultural or ethnic background. From the experiences I have had so far, I can foresee enhanced learning opportunities both inside and outside the classroom.
Aside from your classmates, what was the key factor that led you to choose this program for your full-time MBA and why was it so important to you? While visiting Olin Business School last fall and connecting with current students, I was impressed by the intimate community and the feeling of belonging and inclusion. This was particularly important to me because I really felt that my personal needs and interests would be recognized and addressed. I didn’t want to be just a number, but a valued member of the program.
What club or activity are you looking most forward to in business school? Participating in the CEL (Center for Experiential Learning) projects, where I will have a unique opportunity to apply classroom concepts to real companies with real issues, with the ultimate goal of creating impactful solutions.
What led you to pursue an MBA at this point in your career? The Brazilian market has developed rapidly in the past several years, making entrepreneurship more difficult. Existing companies are experiencing increased competitiveness and facing new challenges, such as the e-commerce expansion and cannibalization of traditional retailing stores. Conscious of the evolving market, I am confident that an MBA is essential to my future success as an entrepreneur. Business schools are certainly not the only route to gaining expertise. However, the MBA is the most accelerated, rigorous, and integrative path – one that also provides benefits, such as networking and soft skills, that work experience alone cannot give me.
How did you decide if an MBA was worth the investment? As an engineer with little business expertise, it was necessary to set aside the next two years to invest in my future career as an entrepreneur.
What other MBA programs did you apply to? Duke’s Fuqua School of Business and University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business
How did you determine your fit at various schools? I prioritized a school with a strong entrepreneurial platform and a flourishing startup community where I could get hands-on experience. I evaluated schools through rankings and success of recent alumni in my field of interest. I also contacted graduate offices and current students to better understand the school’s culture. After visiting campus and talking with current students and program recruiters, I was confident that Olin Business School could provide me with the tools I needed to fully grow personally and professionally.
What was your defining moment and how did it shape who you are? My path to the business world started when I studied abroad in Australia. Due to my flexible program curriculum, I took courses in economics and marketing to expand my knowledge of relevant topics outside of engineering. My internet marketing class ultimately inspired me to establish my own online retail store in partnership with the family business.
What do you plan to do after you graduate? I plan to expand both the storefront and online channels of the family business using the expertise and experiences gained through the MBA program.
Where do you see yourself in five years? With five more years’ worth of training and experiences, I aim to branch out from the family business to establish a new company of my own.
Richard Obiora
“A well-rounded risk taker. A gritty visionary that equally loves reading and movie binging.”
Hometown: Atlanta, Georgia
Fun Fact About Yourself: When I was 11 years old, I was an extra in the Movie, The Fighting Temptations and I think I can very slightly be spotted in a scene with Beyonce.
Undergraduate School and Major: Emory University, Political Science
Most Recent Employer and Job Title:
Logicworks – Sales Operations Support Associate
Sisense Business Intelligence – Sales Development Manager
Yext- Small & Medium Business Sales Associate
Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: In my professional career I have worked for two promising tech startups, (Yext and Sisense). While working for pre-IPO companies, I’ve been involved in initiatives to increase brand awareness, introduced new products to businesses, and worked for a company that went public.
What quality best describes the MBA classmates you’ve met so far and why? The classmates I met so far have been smart and extremely helpful.
Aside from your classmates, what was the key factor that led you to choose this program for your full-time MBA and why was it so important to you? I chose Olin Business School because of its emphasis on small class sizes and commitment to diversity. At Olin, you can get to know your classmates, professors, and faculty on a deeper level. When I attended Admitted Student’s weekend, I was amazed at the presentation that Assistant Dean Ruthie Pyles Stiffler delivered. She took the time to learn every admitted student’s story, and from memory highlighted what makes us unique and why Olin is a great fit. At that moment I knew I would not only be getting a top MBA degree, but also gaining a family.
What club or activity are you looking most forward to in business school? I am looking forward to working within our Center for Experiential Learning, where I’ll get a chance to work on consulting projects with real companies. The experience of leading a team in solving complex business problems is exactly what I want to get out of MBA.
What led you to pursue an MBA at this point in your career? At this point in my career, I felt I had gained some good professional experience and had an interesting background. I knew I needed to enhance my business knowledge and analytical skills to have a much larger impact in my post MBA career.
How did you decide if an MBA was worth the investment? I researched the benefits of going to business school, and reached out to colleagues that have received their MBA
What other MBA programs did you apply to? Georgetown, Emory, and UNC
How did you determine your fit at various schools? I mainly read the popular MBA articles, forums, and website that focus on all the aspects in the MBA process. I also invested a lot of time in making multiple visits to each school I was interested in. I was looking for a top program with small class sizes, and a strong consulting platform.
What was your defining moment and how did it shape who you are? When I traveled out of the country for the first time to do a study abroad at the University of Oxford in England, and when I graduated from Emory University. I thought of how lucky I was to have parents that worked extremely hard for me to have this opportunity. These experiences motivate me to continue improving myself, and remind me that, with the right amount of grit, and determination you can accomplish a lot of great things.
What do you plan to do after you graduate? I plan to pivot into management consulting.
Where do you see yourself in five years? I hope to have a leadership position with a large, innovative company, gaining global business experience in strategic management.
Claudia Ortiz Albert
“I am passionate, competitive, and caring. I work hard to achieve my goals.”
Hometown: Valencia, Spain
Fun Fact About Yourself: I have studied and/or worked in five cities, three countries and two continents in the past two years.
Undergraduate School and Major: Campbell University, B.B.A. in International Business (Magna Cum Laude)
Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria S.A., Corporate & Investment Banking Analyst
Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: Presenting an intrapreneurial new product to the head of global finance at BBVA and receiving support to introduce the product to clients.
What quality best describes the MBA classmates you’ve met so far and why? Supportive. Over the past three weeks together, they have been very welcoming and encouraging as we begin this journey together. Being an international student, it is very important to feel that you have a home away from home. There is such a great vibe in our class! When I met them, I knew I came to the right place at the right time.
Aside from your classmates, what was the key factor that led you to choose this program for your full-time MBA and why was it so important to you? The key factors for me in coming to Olin were the school’s reputation and the generous support I received from the school through Forté Foundation. I firmly believe that Olin’s reputation, faculty, and career opportunities will all help me discover my path, guide my passions, and explore my interests to have a greater impact on the world.
What club or activity are you looking most forward to in business school? I am so excited to join the Olin Women in Business because I want to use my MBA to improve gender equality and empower women to achieve their goals.
What led you to pursue an MBA at this point in your career? I consider Fall 2018 as the right time to start my graduate studies because I know that the MBA will provide new and greater opportunities than those I had back home. I will be able to take advantage of the classes, network, and resources that WashU has available to advance my short- and long-term professional goals. An MBA from Olin will enhance my career opportunities and facilitate my professional growth by giving me the knowledge and confidence to excel in any environment. When combined with my desire to have an impact on others’ lives, my education at WashU will give me the ability to enact the changes I want to see in tomorrow´s society.
How did you decide if an MBA was worth the investment? Yes, I firmly believe this MBA is worth the investment in money and time because it will enrich not only my career, but also my personal life experience. For me, leaving my home country is a huge sacrifice mainly because all my family and friends are there. However, I know that this effort and investment will be worth it for my personal and professional future.
What other MBA programs did you apply to? Georgetown and UNC Chapel Hill
How did you determine your fit at various schools? I wanted to attend a top-quality program that would provide great career opportunities after graduation. Olin also stood out to me because from the first interaction I had with the admissions team, they made me feel like I belonged here.
What was your defining moment and how did it shape who you are? In March 2012, I decided to leave behind everything I knew to start a new adventure. I discovered that through an athletic scholarship I could combine my two passions – business and tennis – and continue my athletic career. I decided to get out of my comfort zone and challenge myself.
Until that point, I was just a regular Spanish person. I had graduated from high school and I was majoring in Law and Business Administration in a nearby university. Similar to most people my age in Spain, I had a very comfortable life studying while living with my parents near my friends, family, and boyfriend. Unfortunately, the Spanish education system makes it nearly impossible to combine sports with classes. Like many other athletes in Spain, I had to decide whether I wanted to pursue a career in tennis or study a degree in college. Since I had to choose, I decided that a good education was the best choice for my future.
After I discovered I could continue my tennis career while studying, I became engulfed by the idea. However, I was unsure about how I could return and compete at such a high level after a two-year break. Despite the temptation to stay, I decided to break out of my comfort zone and pursue this new opportunity. After many hours of practice, fight, and hard work, I rediscovered the silent resilience and determination that tennis gave me through many years of training and competition. I received a full scholarship to attend Campbell University in the United States.
At first, my transition to the US was difficult. I had to adapt to a new culture, language, and the intensity of being a student athlete at a Division I school. I overcame these challenges and found my true home at Campbell, where I became a leader on the court and in the classroom. My experience getting to the US proved to me that (i) it is never too late, and (ii) as we say in Spain, “todo esfuerzo tiene surecompensa” (Every effort has its reward).
Studying and competing in the US gave me the confidence to know that I can achieve anything I put my mind to. My experiences have transferred into my professional success. After college, I took an investment banking position with BBVA in London with the confidence I could succeed in any environment. I was able to quickly become a contributing and valued team member while spearheading initiatives like organizing a Bloomberg training session and padel tournament. I know that if you work hard and have a clear goal, you can make dreams become a reality. This has been my motif in every experience I have had, so far, and I am positive that it will continue to be instrumental in my career.
What do you plan to do after you graduate? I want to continue my career in investment banking after I graduate from Olin. My short-term goal is to work at a major investment bank on Wall Street. I discovered my passion for investment banking during my loan syndicate internship in London. Similar to tennis, I enjoyed working there and I was eager to learn more every day. I love the dynamic, team-oriented, and client-focused career investment banking provides. I want to find a position at a company where I can grow and take on new challenges over time. Ultimately, I’d like to start assuming more management responsibilities and begin taking the steps to become a leader in the industry
Where do you see yourself in five years? In five years, I see myself working for an investment firm where I can grow and increase my responsibilities over time. I see myself in a company where I can learn something new every day and have a feeling of pride to represent such company.
With regards to my long-term goals, besides a career in investment banking, I want to have an impact on society by becoming more involved through volunteering and collaborating with international organizations to achieve gender equality and promote women’s safety. I believe if you can develop stable economies that can raise the standard of living in poor areas, women will have a better opportunity to get a stronger education, acquire more rights, and reduce their abuse.
In many cases, businesses have a greater and quicker impact on initiating social change. In five years, I see myself helping women in various countries establish businesses, gain financial strength, and empowerment while using my knowledge to consult with organizations on developing policies to assist women through different programs. I want to be involved from the grassroots initiatives all the way to the top. I believe that I will add a lot of value to these organizations by using my MBA, career in investment banking, and network to assist in their strategic planning and success. I am eager to use my time and abilities to inspire everyone to strive for a better world.
Jessica Sanchez Chavez
“Born and raised until adulthood in Cuba, with an “always happy” and warrior nature.”
Hometown: Havana, Cuba
Fun Fact About Yourself: Every time I am nervous I have nightmares with waves.
Undergraduate School and Major: Undergraduate: University of Havana, Major in Economics
Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Citibank, Area Banker
Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: Even though it could sound general, at this point of my life, I am sure that my biggest accomplishment in my career has been to get into business school. I have proven myself many times to be able to adapt to different environments, analyze data, provide outstanding customer service and be great at teamwork. However, how hard I had to work to get into a top ranked business school in this country, and all the introspection I took in that journey, were priceless to what I feel capable of today.
What quality best describes the MBA classmates you’ve met so far and why? They are all extremely intelligent and capable. I feel honored to be among them and to have the opportunity to listen to their perspectives.
Aside from your classmates, what was the key factor that led you to choose this program for your full-time MBA and why was it so important to you? The faculty members made me feel confident instead of intimidated. It was mostly a feeling, and my feelings are never wrong. At the Orientation Program of the Consortium this past June, the only school that counted with at least one faculty member per student was Olin. I haven’t done one thing related to my career without their guidance and support since I decided to come here, even before I accepted the offer. I am very lucky!
What club or activity are you looking most forward to in business school? Marketing clubs, Latin/Hispanic association, Pride Club, Volunteering clubs.
What led you to pursue an MBA at this point in your career? Most of the times, it was the frustration of not being listened to by others. I have always had a strong voice, and I have worked very hard to sustain it on solid arguments. Having been in positions in which I was ignored because I was at a lower level challenged me to go for more. I had to work hard to figure out the way, but I knew I was able to get through it. I am very grateful that there were people that wanted to meet me and gave me a vote of confidence. My goal is to gather more foundation that allow me to make my voice listened to, and consequently to increase trust in Hispanic talent.
How did you decide if an MBA was worth the investment? The benefits of strengthening my knowledge, meeting all these great minds (colleagues and professors), and getting access to top companies are incomparable to any money or time investment.
What other MBA programs did you apply to? Emory, Goizueta Business School and Rochester, Simons Business School
How did you determine your fit at various schools? I did the research based on my GMAT score range and the concentrations fields. I also checked factors such as companies that employ from the school and positioning in certain industries. I used US rankings mostly, but I also attended several MBA fairs and tours. The best way I found to research culture was visiting the schools, the fit was pretty obvious, for me was about the people (but I am a people person).
What was your defining moment and how did it shape who you are? My defining moment was a surgery I had around 5 years ago, in which my life was in danger. It was a long process that affected my health, personal life, my family, and my attendance at school. That experience is a big part of me that definitely changed my lens. I didn’t know I was so strong until that moment. I never stopped laughing and being positive, mostly because I didn’t want my family and friends to be worried about my mental health facing that experience. However, the most significant accomplishment was the recovery of an affected nerve functionality, what takes incredible time of dedication and desperation management. It built resilience and hope, and those are the values that move me in every step of my life since then.
What do you plan to do after you graduate? I want to pursue a career in marketing, since I want to specialize in consumers’ insights and market research. I want to know how to solve people needs, and I want to tell them that there is a lot of work on it – that there are good business people that worry about their happiness. Also, I want to help people from other countries that want to go big in the business world, the ones that can’t afford it and the ones that don’t know how do it like me.
Where do you see yourself in five years? I want to be seen as an example that it can be done. I see myself in a recognized position, managing a great team and solving complex problems. Every MBA’s dream, right? I want to do different things that I’m really passionate about at my job, and I see myself transmitting that to others.
Justin Smith
“Assertive, yet thoughtful and caring person who sees the big picture … and loves golden-doodles.”
Hometown: Military brat, but I call the Saint Louis area home since my parents retired in O’Fallon, IL, and I attended high school in Granite City, Illinois.
Fun Fact About Yourself: I have been in the military for 19 years, and I have a golden-doodle.
Undergraduate School and Major: Speech Communications at Southern Illinois University
Most Recent Employer and Job Title: United States Army Special Forces Officer; Captain in the Green Berets
Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: My selection to and completion of the United States Army Special Forces Qualification Course.
What quality best describes the MBA classmates you’ve met so far and why? Diverse, supportive, and confident. My MBA classmates come from around the world, bringing different experiences and expertise – an asset allowing us to look at problem sets through multiple lenses and draw from a vast amount of capabilities.
Aside from your classmates, what was the key factor that led you to choose this program for your full-time MBA and why was it so important to you? The location of the school. Olin is located in Saint Louis, where my wife and I call home. Plus, with the deep history as the gateway to the west, current elite businesses, and variety of extracurricular activities, Saint Louis was the top option for me.
What club or activity are you looking most forward to in business school? I am most excited to participate in the Center for Experiential Learning (CEL). Learning through experience has always worked best for me, so having the opportunity to gain real-world experience while learning overseas in a complex environment strongly appeals to me.
What led you to pursue an MBA at this point in your career? As an Army Officer, I will advance to senior leadership with my promotion to Major. This will require me to think strategically and frame problem sets from many different perspectives. Obtaining my MBA will enable me to think as a strategic leader and leverage new skillsets, such as accounting, to make well-informed decisions.
How did you decide if an MBA was worth the investment? I weighed the pros and cons of other masters degrees, sought advice from peers who have masters degrees, and reached out to my supervisors for input to make sure I was making the best decision for my family and me.
What other MBA programs did you apply to? I applied to multiple MBA programs, including Florida State University, Fuqua School of Business at Duke, and University of Miami (in Coral Gables).
How did you determine your fit at various schools? I assessed location, reputation, and veteran-friendliness of programs. I searched school websites, analyzed historical graduates and job placement through LinkedIn, and contacted other veterans at the schools I was interested in attending. I also attended functions at my top-choice schools to get a better vibe for the culture as compared to what was portrayed online or by the administration. I searched clubs and also searched local news activities to see how active they were on the campus and in the community. I realized Olin fit my career goals after attending the diversity weekend, meeting with veterans and guidance counselors, and talking to current students. The people I spoke with were very hospitable and supportive. The amount of support and comfort I felt when talking with people made it the right choice for me.
What was your defining moment and how did it shape who you are? Leading my first platoon in the Infantry. After one of my first missions, I knew how important it was to lead by example and always take the time to think through as many contingencies as possible to plan effectively.
What do you plan to do after you graduate? I plan to return to 7th SFG (A) in Florida and lead a company. I will continue to grow as a professional as I prepare to enter the civilian job force.
Where do you see yourself in five years? In five years, I see myself preparing to enter the civilian workforce as a senior level executive or working at a small startup.
Shaun Brij Vaid
Describe yourself in 15 words or less: Dad jokes.
Hometown: St. Louis, MO
Fun Fact About Yourself: I was in a Pepsi commercial with Kyrie Irving for the Uncle Drew series.
Undergraduate School and Major: The George Washington University, Economics and Religion
Most Recent Employer and Job Title: BJC Healthcare, Senior Financial Analyst
Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: I worked on an Emergency Department turnaround project in Tennessee a few years ago that was successful in reducing patient walk-outs. We spent several days working with stakeholders at all levels of the organization to create a new process by which we would triage patients within the Emergency Department. The path we took was difficult, but well-worth the struggle. Through this new process, we reduced walk-outs by 77%. I remember that on the second day of our pilot, one of the nurses entered the war room and excitedly told us that the new process we implemented saved somebody’s life. That project crystallized the reason why I love working in healthcare.
What quality best describes the MBA classmates you’ve met so far and why? Humble. I am surrounded by people who have served their country, generated millions in value for their previous employers, and climbed the socioeconomic ladder, yet I have not once gotten the sense that any of my peers, despite their incredible accomplishments, view themselves as more deserving or better than their classmates. It is a privilege to be in a class with so many smart, innovative thinkers who are willing to listen to each other and collaborate to find the best solutions to complex problems.
Aside from your classmates, what was the key factor that led you to choose this program for your full-time MBA and why was it so important to you? The key factor that led me to choose this program was its location in St. Louis. The city has become a center for innovation in the tech industry and continues to make incredible strides in the fight for racial equity. Washington University has sponsored projects like For the Sake of All, which investigates disparate health outcomes for children from different parts of the city. The findings of this research are jarring – the economic costs of health disparities in the African-American community are estimated to be around $4 billion annually. When I was weighing my options between schools, I felt compelled to stay in the city where I grew up and help close the gap in health outcomes. I have worked in the healthcare industry for six years and have seen payment systems slowly shift from a fee-for-service model to an outcomes-based model that rewards quality of care. With the For the Sake of All research in-hand and this new healthcare climate, I see a significant opportunity to “do right” without sacrificing the bottom line. Washington University’s commitment to working on this issue coupled with its membership in the Consortium for Graduate Study in Management closed the deal for me. I wanted to be part of an institution that valued the same things I value, and Washington University met that criteria.
What club or activity are you looking most forward to in business school? I am excited to take on projects with the East St. Louis Initiative (ESLI), a student-led pro-bono consulting organization for entrepreneurs from East St. Louis, one of the country’s most underserved communities. Additionally, Washington University’s Center for Experiential Learning has a program called the Taylor Community Consulting Project that brings together students as consulting teams to work with nonprofit organizations in St. Louis.
What led you to pursue an MBA at this point in your career? I spoke with one of my old bosses, who I consider a good friend and mentor, and discussed different paths my career could take if I remained in the workforce or pursued an MBA. After some career war-gaming, I ultimately decided to pursue the MBA because of the networking and exploration opportunities that a great program could provide me.
How did you decide if an MBA was worth the investment? Getting an MBA from a top program almost guarantees you the things that truly matter – a roof over your head and the capability to feed your family three times a day. As a bonus, you have the chance to do something you love after two years of studying and self-improvement. The investment made sense once I checked all of those boxes.
What other MBA programs did you apply to? Fuqua, Wharton, Columbia
How did you determine your fit at various schools? I prioritized institutional values and industry alignment. I would like to stay in the healthcare industry, so it was important to identify schools that had specific focuses in healthcare and a track record of producing leaders in the industry. I also connected with as many alumni and current students as possible to ask about their experiences and what advice they would offer younger versions of themselves before they entered MBA programs. From those discussions, I felt like I had a good sense of what each schools’ culture was like and was able to make well-informed decisions on where to spend my energy applying to schools.
What was your defining moment and how did it shape who you are? I was laid off in 2016 as part of a cost-cutting strategy and admittedly felt a punch to my ego when the announcement came out. I took a few months to travel with friends, spend time with family, and re-assess what I was looking for in a career. That period helped me shape my approach to not only my career, but to my volunteer work and life’s mission. I believe that those months off gave me clarity and allowed me to focus on creating value in communities through business.
What do you plan to do after you graduate? Entrepreneurship or consulting.
Where do you see yourself in five years? Working alongside smart, intellectually curious people who want to use business to change the world for the better.
