Class Profile

Undergraduate major: Finance

Class of: 2026

Hometown: Ekiti State, Nigeria

Pre-MBA employer and title: Senior Associate, Actuarial and Quantitative Solutions, Deloitte Nigeria

What are some advantages you’ve seen in earning your MBA in Chapel Hill? One of the key advantages is the program’s ability to help students achieve their career aspirations. This success is driven by the program’s strong relationships with top employers and its focus on equipping students with the skills needed to excel in their chosen industries or functions. Additionally, the diversity of the class significantly enhances the learning experience. Engaging with peers from varied professional and cultural backgrounds elevates the quality of class discussions and fosters invaluable learning opportunities outside the classroom.

What course, club or activity excites you the most at UNC Kenan-Flagler? One of my favorite courses has been Introduction to Entrepreneurship with Professor Atul Nerkar. I appreciate the dynamic case-based teaching approach and the engaging, debate-style discussions that allow us to explore diverse perspectives. Additionally, I am thrilled about the growing influence of the Africa Business Club, as it spearheads impactful initiatives that align with my passion for making meaningful contributions. Other highlights include the camaraderie of the Blue Cup, and the relaxed, engaging nature of Carolina Casuals.

Undergraduate major: Finance

Class of: 2026

Hometown: Temple, Texas

Pre-MBA employer and title: Instructor, U.S. Army

What are some advantages you’ve seen in earning your MBA in Chapel Hill? I’ve been very impressed by how tight-knit and helpful the community really is. Everyone from second-year students to faculty to alumni genuinely wants to see you succeed, and they will do everything in their power to help.

What course, club or activity excites you the most at Kenan-Flagler? From a social standpoint, the Kenan-Flagler Veterans’ Association has been my favorite club by far. The Veterans’ Association hosts several social events a month that are always a good time. From a career standpoint, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the Investment Banking Club and the time and effort the second-year students put into preparing us for internship recruiting.

Undergraduate major: General Studies

Class of: 2026

Hometown: Kansas City, Missouri

Pre-MBA employer and title: Special Operations Civil Affairs Officer, U.S. Army

Aside from your classmates, what key attributes led you to choose UNC Kenan-Flagler’s MBA program? During my time in special operations, I led several medical clinics in Africa and Bangladesh, which gave me firsthand experience in addressing healthcare challenges in diverse environments. UNC’s strong connections to the healthcare sector, combined with experiential learning opportunities like the Healthcare GIE to the UAE, were pivotal in my decision to attend UNC Kenan-Flagler. These programs will allow me to further develop a global perspective on healthcare, which is critical for my journey toward becoming a future leader in the industry.

What course, club, or activity excites you the most at UNC Kenan-Flagler? I’m particularly excited about my Data Analytics and Decision-Making course with Professor Adam Mersereau. Throughout my personal journey, I’ve always sought to drive change based on tangible data, and this course has been an eye-opening experience, showing me just how much there is to learn. I’m eager to continue expanding my knowledge and refining my skills in this critical area.

What are some advantages you’ve seen in earning your MBA in Chapel Hill? The collaborative culture at Chapel Hill cannot be overstated. The support from current students and the extensive network of alumni, who are not only based in major cities along the East Coast but are also eager to return to campus or host us for industry days, is truly remarkable. Additionally, the region’s growing presence in technology, healthcare, and sustainability industries provides invaluable opportunities for networking and internships.

Undergraduate major: Mechanical Engineering

Class of: 2026

Hometown: Bengaluru, India

Pre-MBA employer and title: Board Member and Senior Business Development Manager, Vertex Engineers Pvt. Ltd.

Aside from your classmates, what key attributes led you to choose UNC Kenan-Flagler’s MBA program? I was drawn to UNC Kenan-Flagler for its consulting concentration, which includes practical courses like Introduction to Consulting Skills and Frameworks and structured support from the Consulting Club through career labs and case workshops. Additionally, initiatives such as Student Teams Achieving Results (STAR) and Ad-Hoc Consulting, also stood out as invaluable resources, providing hands-on opportunities to build consulting experience. These elements were especially important to me as someone transitioning into consulting from a non-consulting background.

What course, club, or activity excites you the most at Kenan-Flagler? The Consulting Club excites me the most because of its structured training for first-year students recruiting for consulting. It played a significant role in my successful summer internship recruitment with Bain & Company.

Undergraduate major: Economics

Class of: 2026

Hometown: Lima, Peru

Pre-MBA employer and title: VP of Financial Planning and Treasury, Vanguard Group International

Aside from your classmates, what key attributes led you to choose UNC Kenan-Flagler’s MBA program? I chose UNC because of its collaborative environment and emphasis on hands-on experience. Being in a collaborative environment was particularly important to me because I value the ability to trust and rely on my peers for support. Additionally, gaining hands-on experience was crucial as I sought to transition into the healthcare industry. Participating in the Healthcare Case Competition (where I was honored as the 2nd runner-up in 2024) and the STAR program, where I worked with a pharmaceutical company on a marketing challenge, allowed me to truly experience what it’s like to work in the healthcare sector. These experiences have been invaluable in preparing me for my career goals.

What course, club or activity excites you the most at Kenan-Flagler…and why? The Healthcare Club is the activity that excites me the most at UNC Kenan-Flagler. It has been incredibly helpful in providing a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare industry, the internship application process, and healthcare-related case competitions. Additionally, the club’s career treks and social activities have created meaningful opportunities to connect with peers and professionals in the field. By addressing all the key aspects needed to thrive in the healthcare industry, the Healthcare Club has become an invaluable resource for my personal and professional growth.

What do you hope to do after graduation (at this point)? After graduation, I hope to join a finance rotational program where I can deepen my understanding of the healthcare industry while applying my finance expertise. I am eager to combine my background in finance with my passion to contribute to an industry that has a meaningful impact on people’s lives.

Undergraduate major: Computer Science

Class of: 2026

Hometown: Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

Pre-MBA employer and title: Senior Associate, Amazon

Aside from your classmates, what key attributes led you to choose UNC Kenan-Flagler’s MBA program? One key aspect that stood out to me about UNC Kenan-Flagler was the incredibly supportive and inclusive environment fostered by its senior students, professors, and staff. From providing guidance during the application process to offering mentorship and insights throughout the program, their willingness to help create a strong sense of community was instrumental in my decision to join. This culture of collaboration and support made me feel confident that I would thrive both personally and professionally at Kenan-Flagler.

What course, club or activity excites you the most at Kenan-Flagler? One of the courses I’ve thoroughly enjoyed at UNC Kenan-Flagler is Operations, taught by Professor Nur Sunar. Her approach not only provided deep insights into operations management but also showcased the kindness and support that professors extend to students. I’m equally excited about the New Drug Development course with Professor Lewis Lynn, whose 36 years of healthcare experience enrich class discussions. Right now she is serving as VP at Innotiv, making the course an invaluable learning opportunity.

What do you hope to do after graduation (at this point)? After graduation, I aspire to work as an operations manager, leveraging data and technology to address complex challenges and drive impactful solutions. My goal is to create sustainable value by optimizing processes, enhancing efficiency, and fostering innovation within organizations.

Undergraduate major: International and Global Studies

Class of: 2026

Hometown: Charlotte, North Carolina

Pre-MBA employer and title: Manager of Government Relations at Madison Services Group, Inc.

What course, club or activity excites you the most at UNC Kenan-Flagler?

I am most excited to participate in the Carolina Women in Business club, which advocates for increased representation of women in business. Previously, I worked for a women-owned, women-founded small business, and I understand the importance of female leadership in male-dominated industries.

Aside from your classmates, what key part of the curriculum or programming led you to choose UNC Kenan-Flagler?

Along with a variety of classes that align to my interest in pursuing a career in consulting, UNC Kenan-Flagler offers experiential learning programs such as the STAR program that allow students to develop real-world skills before graduation.

Undergraduate major: Finance

Class of: 2026

Hometown: Bath, United Kingdom

Pre-MBA employer and title: Vice President of Finance and Operations at KULKEA

What key part of the Full-Time MBA curriculum led you to choose UNC Kenan-Flagler?

The STAR Program. It is an incredible opportunity to get a real slice of the consulting experience and have the chance to connect our education with the professional world. Given my desired career path of consulting, this stood out to me as a valuable addition to my MBA experience.

What course, club or activity excites you the most at UNC Kenan-Flagler?

The Global Immersion Electives and “Doing Business In” programs – I cannot wait to have the opportunity to travel and spend quality time with my classmates in a new country. I love to have new experiences in different cultures as you really get to know those around you and gain new perspectives.

What are some advantages you’ve seen in earning your MBA in Chapel Hill?

The strength of the relationships you build with not only your classmates, but your professors, mentors, and the general Carolina community. Everyone is proud to be a Tar Heel and wear Carolina blue!

Undergraduate majors: Philosophy and Global Environments & Sustainability

Class of: 2026

Hometown: Boca Raton, Florida

Pre-MBA employer and title: Manager of Project Development at Silicon Ranch Corporation

What key part of the Full-Time MBA curriculum led you to choose UNC Kenan-Flagler?

I was very intentional about choosing a program with strong ties to the energy industry. The UNC Kenan-Flagler Energy concentration is supported by both the strength of the Energy Center and the Energy Club. I had meaningful conversations with Professor Stephen Arbogast both during and after Experience Weekend and his explanation of the opportunities the program would provide solidified my decision to attend Carolina.

What are some advantages you’ve seen in earning your MBA in Chapel Hill?

As a UVA alum, I know how powerful a college town can be. School spirit is woven into the ethos of the community. I also saw the physical proximity of both Duke and NC State as a huge draw. In a 30-mile radius, you have three world-class institutions and thousands of students with similar ambitions. The concentration of intelligence is incredible.  

Undergraduate major: Political Science

Class of: 2026

Hometown: East Orange, New Jersey

Pre-MBA employer and title: Conmotors Limited, founder and CEO

What key part of the Full-Time MBA curriculum led you to choose UNC Kenan-Flagler?

After seven years of owning and managing a business, I identified a critical need to enhance my skills in finance and data analysis. Through honest self-assessment, I recognized the value of a top-tier program that emphasizes finance and core business principles while offering flexibility for exploring various concentrations. UNC Kenan-Flagler meets these needs perfectly, and its ranking among the top business schools is an added benefit.

What course, club or activity excites you the most at Kenan-Flagler?

I am particularly excited about delving deeper into finance at UNC Kenan-Flagler. Gaining a thorough understanding of financial principles will significantly enhance my ability to make informed and strategic business decisions.

Undergraduate major: Economics, with double concentrations in Finance and Social Impact

Class of: 2026

Hometown: San Jose, California

Pre-MBA employer and title: One Acre Fund, Director of Retail Business and Investments

What key part of the Full-Time MBA curriculum led you to choose UNC Kenan-Flagler?

I was certain I wanted to further pivot into investing, and so I went into my school search focused on that outcome. At first, I went deep into the employment reports, but ultimately, it occurred to me that a lot of the people placing into investing roles out of school might have gone into B-school already having had that experience. So I decided to focus instead on looking for the best set of experiential learning opportunities, complemented by a show of commitment from the finance and investing faculty to helping students achieve on their ambitions. I found both of those at UNC Kenan Flagler.

The list of relevant experiential opportunities seemed endless, from the Alpha Challenge (a stock pitch competition hosted at UNC Kenan-Flagler) to the Private Equity Fund to spring internships in investment management through the PRIME Program (Projects in Investment Management Experiential-Learning).

What do you hope to do after graduation (at this point)?

In the long term, my goal is to continue to bend the tools and forces of capitalism to a greater good, and specifically towards the growth and development of lower income economies and communities. I envision someday starting up my own private equity fund to deliver both competitive financial returns and generate significant ESG returns in targeted sectors and markets.

Undergraduate major: Law

Class of: 2026

Hometown: Tokyo, Japan

Pre-MBA employer and title: Kajima Corporation, Assistant Manager, based in Tokyo

What key part of the Full-Time MBA curriculum led you to choose UNC Kenan-Flagler?

The decision to pursue my MBA at UNC Kenan-Flagler was driven by the renowned real estate program. The Wood Center for Real Estate at UNC fosters a robust community of lifelong learners and real estate practitioners, dedicated to industry excellence and career development. I have built my career in Japan, but I plan to transition to a role in U.S. subsidiary, focusing on construction and real estate business in the southeastern U.S. UNC’s real estate programs and strong alumni network are exactly what I was looking for in an MBA program.

What has been your first impression of the Kenan-Flagler MBA students and alumni you’ve met so far?

My first impression of the UNC Kenan-Flagler MBA students is that they are incredibly supportive. Last year, I visited the U.S. for my interview at UNC. Since we were deciding on a place to live for the next two years, I brought my wife and son. While I attended the school’s information sessions and interviews, students at UNC Kenan-Flagler took my family on a tour of Chapel Hill. This act of kindness and hospitality left a lasting impression on us. My family and I were deeply moved by the warm welcome from the students, and it solidified my desire to become part of the UNC community.

Undergraduate major: Biology

Class of: 2006

Hometown: Fayetteville, NC

Pre-MBA employer and title: Cape Fear Valley Hospital, Nursing Assistant

What key part of the Full-Time MBA curriculum led you to choose UNC Kenan-Flagler?

One key aspect of UNC Kenan-Flagler’s MBA curriculum that influenced my decision to choose this business school is the Healthcare Concentration that is offered. This concentration provides a structured curriculum that covers essential topics such as healthcare delivery systems, healthcare economics, policy, and management. As someone studying business and medicine (dual-degree student with the UNC-Chapel Hill School of Medicine), this aspect of the program will equip me with the necessary skills to navigate their intersection.

What has been your first impression of the Kenan-Flagler MBA students and alumni you’ve met so far?

My first impression of UNC Kenan-Flagler MBA students and alumni has been one of amazement. From the start, the school’s focus has been on team building amongst its students, as evidenced by one of the team building events I attended. The activity involved a series of challenging, interactive problem-solving exercises. The genuine camaraderie that developed among team members made for fun memories and strengthened our connections. The UNC Kenan-Flagler community already stands out for its inclusivity and supportiveness, making it clear that success here is not just about individual achievements but also about collective growth.

What course, club or activity excites you the most at Kenan-Flagler?

As an MBA student pursuing a healthcare concentration, the Healthcare Club at UNC Kenan-Flagler excites me the most. This club is particularly appealing because it aligns closely with my career goals and interests. The club’s emphasis on improving healthcare systems and driving innovation aligns with my passion for transforming healthcare delivery.

Undergraduate majors: Business Administration

Class of: 2026

Hometown: Alexandria, Virginia

Pre-MBA employer and title: Lincoln Property Company, Development Associate

What has been your first impression of the Kenan-Flagler MBA students and alumni you’ve met so far?

The UNC Kenan-Flagler MBA students and alumni are incredibly friendly, thoughtful and hard-working. I had the pleasure of working with a UNC Kenan-Flagler alum in real estate before coming to school here. He took me under his wing and helped me learn about new real estate sectors I was not working on directly. He also helped me join the DC Real Estate Group, a group of D.C. real estate professionals under 40 years old who are in the associate to VP level, where I grew my network tremendously and make life-long friends. Outside of work he began inviting me to social events with friends and fun dinners.

What course, club or activity excites you the most at Kenan-Flagler (and why)?

I am most excited for engaging different sports clubs. I love exercise, competition and making new friends through sports.

Undergraduate majors: Business Administration with a focus in finance, and Political Science

Class of: 2026

Hometown: Denver, Colorado

Pre-MBA employer and title: Colorado Department of Education, Principal Consultant

What are some advantages you’ve seen in earning your MBA in Chapel Hill?

A strong and active alumni community was a recurring theme in conversations with students during my application process. The program excels in preparing you for your next career move, but it’s the people it attracts and the community they build that truly drives success. You can always reach out to an alum and receive invaluable support, knowing you share the same background as a Tar Heel.

What course, club or activity excites you the most at Kenan-Flagler?

Through the Center for Excellence in Investment Management, a Fundamental Investment Practicum is offered for those interested in a career in analyzing fundamental investments. This non-credit course, taught by a UNC alumnus and partner at an investment firm, starts in mid-July – much earlier than when our orientation starts. For someone pivoting from education, this course has been tremendously helpful and intellectually stimulating, providing practical insights and knowledge essential for my new desired career path. It also helps to introduce me to other classmates that are interested in this area of finance.

Undergraduate majors: Computer Science and Engineering

Class of: 2026

Hometown: Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India

Pre-MBA employer and title: Deloitte, Senior Consultant

What key part of the Full-Time MBA curriculum led you to choose UNC Kenan-Flagler?

One of the key aspects of UNC Kenan-Flagler’s MBA program that stood out to me was the flexibility to choose and combine concentrations. This feature was pivotal in my decision to join UNC Kenan-Flagler because it allows me to tailor my MBA experience to align with my unique career aspirations.

Coming from a strong tech background with substantial experience in consulting, I have a passion for healthcare and a burgeoning interest in finance. UNC Kenan-Flagler provides the perfect environment for me to integrate my existing skills with my future interests. The school’s renowned finance program and robust healthcare concentration offer me the opportunity to craft a career trajectory that encompasses both my past experiences and my future goals.

What course, club or activity excites you the most at Kenan-Flagler?

I’m most excited about joining the Carolina Women in Business Club (CWIB) at UNC Kenan-Flagler. Collaborating with inspiring women business leaders promises to be a significant source of motivation for me. Additionally, the Global Immersion Elective (GIE) offers an incredible opportunity to travel, tackle global business challenges, and build a community with my peers.

As a Forte Fellow, I look forward to mentoring undergraduate women and supporting future female leaders. I am enthusiastic about the STAR program, as it allows me to apply classroom knowledge to real-world consulting projects. These experiences align perfectly with my passion for international business and my commitment to empowering women in business.

Undergraduate majors: Finance and International Business, with a minor in Economics

Class of: 2026

Hometown: East Sandwich, Massachusetts

Pre-MBA employer and title: STAG Industrial, Inc., Associate, Acquisitions

What are some advantages you’ve seen in earning your MBA in Chapel Hill?

UNC Kenan-Flagler stands out as the MBA program with the resources best suited for my personal and professional growth. With the ability to combine my interests in real estate, entrepreneurship and energy in a customizable curriculum, I believe UNC Kenan-Flagler offers me the best opportunities for success. Unlike other MBA programs UNC Kenan-Flagler puts an emphasis on community, encouraging students to engage in community impact both locally in the Triangle and across the world. Supported by a strong alumni network, this community involvement shapes well-rounded leaders with business knowledge.

What course, club or activity excites you the most at Kenan-Flagler?

As a Vetter Dean’s Fellow, I am excited for the opportunity to make an impact in the community. Part of the reason for getting my MBA was to shift away from low touch investing and focus on investing that makes a tangible difference. One way I hope to achieve this during my MBA experience is to work with both UNC and local housing affiliates to better develop and understand community impact through real estate.