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December 5, 2025December 5, 2025

My Stern Experience: From Lagos to New York

Author: Rhema Obiefuna is a second-year MBA candidate at NYU Stern, specializing in Strategy, Finance and Global Business. She has 5+ years of cross-functional experience in entrepreneurship, strategy, technology, and finance, having previously built my career in Lagos.

She is passionate about how global strategy drives innovation and actively serves the Stern community through her involvement in the Stern Student Government and Stern in Africa.

Rhema Obiefuna wears a black blazer and a white shirt — Rhema Obiefuna, MBA 2026

From Lagos to New York

Moving 11 hours and thousands of miles away from the familiar community of Lagos, leaving behind family, friends, and my career, felt like a monumental leap into the unknown. Though I was completely convinced the move was right, this journey was a black box. It felt like I was leaving behind everything that already signaled success just to find new ones, armed only with optimism and hope. I’ve always held the conviction, “Hope is not a strategy,” but honestly, boarding that flight from Lagos to New York, hope was pretty much all I had left.

As an international student, comfort meant something very different to me. It meant navigating the complex process of how to “live” first, and then figuring out how to genuinely enjoy that new life. The incredible support I found at Stern came in two essential forms: its people and its reliable systems. The truth is, you don’t need to look outside of Stern for the recipe to success; it’s all here.

My Academic Path

When it came to academics, my specializations were deliberate choices aimed at making me a balanced global leader. I came into Stern particularly to build on three specializations: Strategy, Finance, and Global Business. Strategy was a no-brainer for me as I wanted to formalize my on-the-job strategic experience. Finance started off with my growing interest in understanding the bottom-line drivers for global companies, how businesses make corporate finance decisions, value other companies for growth (M&A), and manage their cash. This even sparked a personal interest in the stock market and trading options! Finally, in terms of Global Business, I took the opportunity to study away for a semester at London Business School (LBS) to broaden my knowledge beyond the North American continent and gain a truly European business perspective. One of the classes that I remain immensely grateful for was the Corporate Finance course taught by the renowned Aswath Damodaran. It was both an honor and an experience learning closely for an entire semester from the Wall Street valuation expert.

My Career Journey

The Careers Team was my strongest resource. I initially walked into the program thinking I had a great resume, but they guided me through crucial iterations until it was truly competitive and reflective of my achievements. The beauty of the Careers Team is that it is made up of several amazing people, and I was able to connect with someone on the team and work closely with that person who helped me reroute industries, and eventually setting me up for my summer internship at a healthcare firm as a Business Intelligence Intern. This further broadened my exposure to industries I have built strategies for. Joining the Management Consulting Association (MCA) proved to be one of the most valuable decisions in preparing me for the interview process. The club utilized a structured framework, pairing me with a dedicated study leader who provided intentional instruction in the casing process. Furthermore, I was able to participate in mock interviews with MBA2s, who offered firsthand insights from navigating internship recruiting. The combination of this rigorous preparation significantly boosted my confidence leading up to the interviews.

Engaging in the Community

Crucially, my involvement in Stern Student Government and Stern in Africa provided the vital community support and leadership opportunities that helped me build the soft skills necessary for any competitive role. In my second semester, due to my involvement in the Stern Center for Sustainable Business, I represented Stern at a sustainability competition at Universal Music Group. This was both a rewarding and expository experience as my team and I explored UMG’s remarkable efforts in the ESG space as well as crafting a pitch for a strategic next step that has the potential to drive meaningful change for the organization. Beyond that, having such a diverse and well-represented classroom made it truly easy to find my close-knit tribe. We constantly explored the city, even taking spontaneous trips together. This commitment to community extended through my dedication to service: my leadership roles allowed me to serve the broader student body by volunteering to help potential candidates navigate the MBA interview process.

Three students from the pitch team pose at the competition — Rhema and her team at the sustainability competition at Universal Music Group

I remember my application essay on change, and my phrase was, “Change, Bring it!” Looking back, I realize that all I truly needed to do was bring the right mindset into every sphere of the program, and Stern provided all the ways and means to make that mindset work.

July 17, 2025July 17, 2025

Consider being a ‘contributor’ during your time as a student

Author: Nate Pettit is the Vice Dean for MBA and Graduate Programs and Professor of Management and Organizations. He currently teaches core and elective leadership courses in the full-time MBA program and NYC and DC Executive MBA programs, and proudly serves as the faculty representative for the MBA student podcast, Stern Chats.

Nathan Pettit headshot

Learning in the moment with our students

I was recently reflecting on my first year as Vice Dean of MBA and Graduate Programs. Just like a student beginning an MBA program or graduate starting a new job, my first year involved some growing pains. I’ve taught leadership courses for years but the practice of leading is truly humbling. There are some things I anticipated and some I didn’t, and some (many) things I certainly could have done better. There are a few points of pride as well.

In the spirit of learning from year one and preparing for the future, I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about the entire MBA student lifecycle and what meaningfully affects students’ experience from their first day of LAUNCH (Stern’s one-of-a-kind MBA orientation) to the moment they walk across stage at Madison Square Garden as graduates. What leads some students to truly thrive and consider their MBA experience to be a success and what leads others to flounder? The answer isn’t obvious. It’s not a person’s application stats or prior experience, because everyone is bright and has an impressive background. Everyone also has access to the same classes, student clubs, administrative teams, alumni network, recruiting resources, etc. That’s all held constant. So, if it isn’t clearly about differences in ability or opportunity, then what is it?

The critic, the consumer, and the contributor

Likely, much of what a student gains from the experience is a result of how one’s attitude and orientation toward the Stern experience directs a student’s effort. Specifically, if they approach the MBA as a critic, a consumer, or a contributor.

Critics approach the experience with an attitude of deservedness and spend their energy finding fault and wishing. The MBA experience at every school has its imperfections and obstacles, and these take up an oversized portion of the critic’s mental real estate. They ruminate about the way they think things ought to be — whether it be about their classmates, classes, clubs, or careers. They are heavy on complaints and light on feasible solutions. Unsurprisingly, critics don’t gain as much as they could from their MBA.

Consumers approach their MBA with a more balanced attitude. They see the experience as a checklist of prescribed tasks, where success means earnestly following instructions. They attend class, study, join clubs, go to events and do their best with what’s laid before them. Consumers often do “succeed” in the sense that their hard work leads them to learn and find good jobs, but they also leave an element of the experience “on the table” because they have a hard time seeing (or acting) beyond the status quo.

Contributors take a far more active, agentic approach to their MBA and make it their own. They see the path that consumers take as a starting point, but then build upon it in productive ways because their attitude is that they are responsible for their experience. They see the same imperfections and obstacles as critics, but instead of fixating on what ought to be different and place blame, contributors focus on what they can control, what they can change, and work collaboratively to do so. They step forward to lead — not always by virtue of a position but through their behavior — and take ownership for their own outcomes. Contributors see their MBA as an opportunity to be seized, shaped, and typically glean the most from their experience, both in terms of their own learning and their short and long term professional outcomes.

Why not be a contributor (which you won’t be all the time)

It’s tempting to default to critique or passivity, especially when things feel uncertain — it gives you someone else to blame if things don’t go your way. I admit, I’ve been the critic, the consumer, and the contributor at different points in life, sometimes within the same day. The reality is, choosing ‘the critic’ is unlikely to serve you and undermines your future. Everyone at Stern wants you to have an incredible experience. We are searching as a community of lifelong learners. We know we are not perfect. My hope is that you embrace that you too are searching and learning — that’s why you are pursuing the MBA. Since you’ve chosen this experience, why not fully show up for it?

You can’t control every outcome over the next two years, but you can control your attitude. In my view, attitude is the single best predictor of how much you’ll grow here and how well you’ll carry that growth forward. Why not choose to contribute?

I encourage you to dive in, embrace the inevitable challenges, contribute often, and make the most of every incredible opportunity. We are so grateful to be on this MBA journey with you.

Nate

June 10, 2025

Daring to Choose a New Career Path at Stern

Author: Rosely Mateo is currently pursuing her MBA at NYU Stern, with a specialization in Finance, Sustainable Business and Innovation, and Healthcare. Before Stern, she worked at Bloomberg LP, driving marketing strategy, and transitioned to work in value-based healthcare startups, including Cityblock Health and myPlace Health. This summer, she will join Citi’s Healthcare Investment Banking group, where she plans to combine her cross-sector experience to drive impact across the healthcare ecosystem.

Rosely Mateo Headshot

Before attending Stern, I developed marketing strategies at Bloomberg and led compliance and operational initiatives at healthcare startups like Cityblock Health and myPlace Health. As my career progressed, I began asking myself: how can I maximize my skills to amplify my impact across the healthcare ecosystem? Finance emerged as the answer and a path to scale the mission-driven work I had already been doing.

At first, my background felt disjointed, but at Stern, I learned to reframe it as an asset, recognizing that I could maximize my cross-industry experience to champion resource allocation that improves healthcare access, equity, and efficiency. I came to Stern to shift my perspective from improving outcomes at the operational level to influencing systemic transformation through larger strategic investment.

EmpowHER’ed Women in Finance

One of my earliest touchpoints with the Stern community was through the EmpowHER program, which supports MBA students in building expertise and networks to drive investment toward solutions to our most pressing social and environmental challenges, while increasing representation and gender equity in finance. Our program director, Abigail Talcott-Schlaifer, shared a startling statistic: only one in four finance professionals is a woman. Upon hearing about my career interests, I was immediately connected with Marcia Hu, the then-president of the Graduate Finance Association (GFA), who had also pivoted from healthcare to investment banking. Hearing her story gave me the confidence that anything was possible.

Group shot of EmpowHER 2025 and 2026 Cohorts — The EmpowHER 2025 and 2026 Cohorts!

EmpowHER’s curriculum and mentorship network broadened my understanding of finance as a tool for both profitability and social equity, particularly in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations. This community helped me feel seen, supported, and empowered as I stepped into the unknown.

Setting the Foundation
In my first year, I took Accounting, Foundations of Finance, and Corporate Finance, which provided me with a strong technical foundation. One of the defining moments of my MBA journey was managing real capital as part of the Michael Price Student Investment Fund (MPSIF). I was part of the Value Fund, where I conducted hands-on investment analysis on healthcare companies and developed new equity pitches. The experience taught me how to perform fundamental analysis and manage a portfolio in a collaborative environment alongside my peers.

Simultaneously, I joined Stern’s Graduate Finance Association (GFA), where a group of MBA2s who had recently navigated the recruiting process provided invaluable guidance and mentorship. Their generosity and insight were instrumental in helping me build both the confidence and skill set needed to pursue a finance career with purpose.

Community That Champions Career Pivots
What makes Stern different is its deep investment in students from nontraditional backgrounds. From Day 1, the Career Center and my peer mentors helped me translate my Bloomberg and healthcare experience into a compelling narrative for investment banking. Through mock interviews, alum chats, and various events, I built the confidence to own my story.

When I received my offer to join Citi’s Healthcare Investment Banking group, I felt the pieces click into place. Stern gave me the platform, finance gave me the tools, and my healthcare experiences gave my journey purpose.

Looking Ahead
As I continue my MBA journey, I’m energized to grow into a healthcare banker. Whether I’m analyzing payer transactions or helping biopharma clients fund innovation, my goal is to center impact in every deal. Stern didn’t just teach me finance; it empowered me to reimagine my career through a lens of purpose and effect.

To incoming students daring to choose a new career path, whether it’s finance, healthcare, or anything in between, know that your previous experience is your edge. Lean into your story. Find communities and ask for help, be curious, and stay open to growth. Stern is a place where unconventional paths aren’t just accepted, they’re celebrated.

May 22, 2025May 22, 2025

MBA Recruiting With a Non-Traditional Background: My Playbook

Author: Doreen Wang is a former journalist turned product manager, currently completing her Full-Time MBA at NYU Stern. After years covering crypto and emerging markets, she used business school to pivot into tech. At Stern, she served as Co-President of the Social Impact and Sustainability Association (SISA), VP of Admissions for the Stern Technology Association (STA), and Graduate Fellow in the Experiential Learning Office. Outside the classroom, Doreen recently began a content creation journey, sharing MBA insights and career advice with a broader audience.

Doreen Wang's Headshot

What I Wish I Knew Before MBA Recruiting

✉️ Dear past me,
The best thing you ever did for yourself was quitting that job.

In three years, you’ll leave that newsroom, move across the country and back, and land a PM job at a big tech company that you love. Don’t believe me? Let me spoil it for you.

2020 — The Seed of Doubt

You’ve just inherited a secondhand GMAT book from your parents’ friend—a McKinsey consultant-turned-entrepreneur. You try to study, but you never get past the first page.

The world is on pause, and for the first time, you can hear yourself think. You’re not unhappy—just quietly wondering: Is this it? No finance background, no five-year plan. Just a feeling you could be doing more.

2021 — The Plateau

Crypto booms, and so do you. You’re working 12-hour days, publishing constantly, and getting name-dropped by your company president at happy hour.

You’re thriving—but stuck. You’ve skill-stacked yourself into being too valuable to promote.

“It’ll take four people to replace you,” they say. “We can’t lose you.” And they won’t—because you don’t even have time to study for the GMAT.

Doreen hosting CoinDesk’s new TV program

2022 — The Knowing

Crypto winter arrived, and while chaos reigned in the headlines—FTX, Celsius, Terra crumbling—you finally had space to think.

You realized: I’m not stuck. I’ve just stopped choosing.

This was the year you applied to Stern. Not because you knew exactly what you wanted—but because you were ready to find out what more you could do.

Doreen in Plattsburgh, NY, reporting a story on bitcoin mining—in negative 20 degrees

2023 — The Leap

You got in! You quit. You start over.

Doreen Wang at LAUNCH 2023 — LAUNCH 2023

MBA LAUNCH came and went. Recruiting followed fast. The people you clicked with early on vanished into consulting and banking. You remembered your application essay—“I want to gain expertise in the industry I cover.” And that broad industry was tech.

But here’s the catch: you didn’t have an engineering background. Everyone else recruiting for PM roles did. You? You wrote stories. Made videos. Hosted interviews with crypto bros. What did you know about tech?

Doreen interviewing crypto founders, investors, and programmers—just another day on the beat

2024 — The Confirmation

Somehow, you landed interviews at Adobe—four, actually. Cue the spiral: What do I say for ‘Tell me about yourself’? Do I admit I’m ‘just a journalist’?

By then, you’d already learned the power of framing through a core marketing class.

No, you didn’t have a CS degree but you’d edited video content for a living, so you knew their products inside and out.

No, you didn’t code but you’d interviewed hundreds of people. You could talk to users.

No, you hadn’t built products but you knew how to get buy-in and communicate clearly.

No, you hadn’t written a PRD but you’d synthesized chaotic stories into 200-word hits for live TV.

You passed the interview. Then the harder part: the internship.

They flew you to the West Coast. Gave you real projects. Pushed you out of your comfort zone. Twelve weeks later, you realized something:

You loved the role. You were finally doing something that used every part of you and still stretched you.

Doreen representing her team at Adobe’s summer case competition — they won first place, no big deal

2025 — The Proof

You’re graduating now. But the real arrival happened long before the ceremony—when you stopped trying to become someone else, and started learning how to explain who you already were.

Doreen representing the Experiential Learning Team and Board Fellows Program at a multi-school symposium hosted by Kellogg

The Career Pivot: How to Survive MBA Recruiting With Non-Traditional Backgrounds

If you’re coming from a non-technical, non-consulting, non-pipeline background—welcome. I was you. I didn’t have a CS degree. I wasn’t a banker. I was a journalist who covered crypto, edited videos, and ran on caffeine and chaos. Here’s what I wish someone had told me before I tried to recruit for tech.

You need to know yourself to sell yourself.

Before you even touch your resume, you need to figure out what you actually want. Not what sounds good on paper—not what everyone else is doing. You.

When I started my MBA, I thought I had to become someone else to land a PM role. Everyone around me had technical experience. I had interviews. Deadlines. Google Docs of half-written stories. But once I got honest about what I brought to the table—communication, clarity, intuition for users—it changed everything. Clarity is magnetic. If you’re unsure of your story, a recruiter will be too.

Learn to translate your skills.

You don’t need to tick every box on a job description. (Spoiler: even the hiring manager doesn’t expect you to.) The secret? Translation.

Recruiters won’t do that work for you. Connect the dots: your “nontraditional” experience probably taught you how to manage stakeholders, talk to users, or communicate across teams. That’s product management.

Your non-traditional background isn’t baggage. It’s context. Use it to your advantage.

Key stakeholders in Doreen’s Experiential Learning project: her client, faculty advisor, and program administrator

Learn to filter advice.

In business school, everyone has opinions. Most of it comes from a good place but it’s shaped by their path, not yours.

I had to learn to tune some of it out. Just because someone else’s recruiting strategy worked for a consulting internship doesn’t mean it’ll work for someone pivoting from media into tech. What helped me the most? Talking to alumni and mentors who actually understood my transition and ignoring the rest. Listen to advice. But trust your pattern recognition more.

Recruiters don’t need perfect candidates—they need clear ones.

I used to think I had to convince recruiters I could do everything. Instead, I learned to show them I could do a few things well and I could learn the rest.

At Adobe, I didn’t pretend to be technical. I focused on what I did know: the product, the user pain points, the creative workflow. That got me in the door and once I was there, I proved I could learn fast.

Doreen on-site at Adobe’s Seattle office during her Summer 2024 internship

Practice your pitch—but mean it.

Yes, you should practice your “Tell me about yourself.” But it shouldn’t sound like a monologue. Recruiters know when you’re performing. You’re better off sounding human.

I practiced mine like a conversation. I kept the big arc (journalist → covering tech → want to build it) and made sure every line could flex depending on the audience. Your pitch should sound like you on your best day not like someone else entirely.

Rejection isn’t the end. It’s rehearsal.

I got rejected plenty. Ghosted, too. That doesn’t mean you’re on the wrong path. It means you’re on a path.

Every time I refined my framing, reworded a response, or adjusted how I positioned my story—it wasn’t a failure. It was reps. You don’t need every door to open. Just one. The right one.

Final words to the Doreen of early 2020:

Your difference is your edge. You don’t need to code. You don’t need to “catch up.” You just needed to own your story.

May 15, 2025

Top 5 Reasons to Choose Stern’s Full-Time MBA Program

Author: Semina is a second-year MBA/MPA student at NYU Stern School of Business and the Wagner School of Public Service, passionate about the intersection of finance and social impact. Originally from Greece, she is motivated by the belief that business can be a powerful tool for advancing positive change. Before Stern, Semina worked across the public and nonprofit sectors, focusing on building public-private partnerships and leading impact-driven initiatives in both the U.S. and Greece. At Stern, she’s pivoting into investment banking, focusing on the energy, real estate, and infrastructure sectors, where financial tools can drive meaningful, long-term change. Semina is an active member of the Stern community, serving as Vice President of Careers for the Social Impact and Sustainability Association (SISA) and the Vice President of Corporate Relations for the European Business Society (EBS). She’s also involved in clubs like the Graduate Finance Association (GFA), Stern Women in Business (SWIB), and the Stern Real Estate Club (SREC), where she’s found mentorship, friendship, and support throughout the MBA journey. Semina regularly engages with Stern’s admissions efforts, speaking with prospective and admitted students to share her experiences and help carry forward the school’s commitment to peer support and giving back to the community.

Semina Kosti-Stavri Headshot

Choosing an MBA program is one of the biggest decisions of your professional journey. When I was deciding where to pursue my dual MBA/MPA degree, I wanted a program that would not only offer world-class academics but also provide opportunities to grow, pivot, and make an impact. Stern checked every box – and then some. Here are my top five reasons why Stern’s Full-Time MBA program stands out:

Community: Where Friendships Become Family

What truly sets Stern apart is its people. From orientation week onward, the block activities and shared experiences made me feel an immediate sense of connection. The friendships I’ve built have carried me through the program – whether through late-night study sessions, casual dinners, or spring break trips abroad, we’ve made unforgettable memories together. Across the board, peers, faculty, and administrators, I’ve been surrounded by people who genuinely want each other to succeed. From resume reviews to midweek check-ins, the support here is constant. Stern is a community that feels like home.

Group photo of Block 1 taking second place at their very first Block Olympics! — Block 1 taking second place at our very first Block Olympics!

The City: New York as Your Campus

Being in the heart of New York City is a game-changer. There’s always something to explore – new restaurants, exhibits, street fairs, or cultural events just around the corner. But beyond the energy, the city is a living classroom and a career hub. Whether it’s attending panels with industry leaders, walking into an office for a coffee chat between classes, or interning during the semester, the access is unparalleled. Stern’s location turns every day into a chance to learn and connect. It’s one thing to study business, and another to live in the heart of it!

The Classes: Learning by Doing

Stern’s focus on experiential learning has been one of the most impactful parts of my MBA experience. Through Stern Consulting Corps, I’ve had the opportunity to gain hands-on exposure to industries I’m passionate about – doing research, building recommendations, and sharpening real-world skills far beyond the classroom. While I haven’t yet been able to do a global program due to my dual degree schedule, I can’t wait to experience the global Doing Business In Australia (DBi) course next year!

Stern Consulting Corps class with their industry professionals — Last Stern Consulting Corps class with our amazing industry professionals

Embracing Change: Redefining What’s Possible

Stern is the ideal place to navigate a big career pivot. Coming from the public sector, I wanted to move into investment banking while staying grounded in impact, and Stern made that possible. Career services, alumni support, and peer mentorship all showed up when I needed direction and confidence the most. It’s not just about landing your next job – it’s a place that pushes you to explore, refine, and pursue a career that genuinely aligns with your values, knowing you’ll be supported every step of the way.

Culture: Where EQ Meets Ambition

Stern truly lives its EQ + IQ ethos. Whether in the classroom, collaborating on group projects, or through student organizations like the Social Impact and Sustainability Association (SISA) and European Business Society (EBS), organizing events, I’ve always felt heard and welcomed. During investment banking recruiting, the Graduate Finance Association (GFA) created a space where I could ask candid questions, feel supported, and understood. Even during a competitive recruiting process, we saw Stern not as individuals competing, but as one team working toward collective success. It’s a culture where we challenge each other to grow, show up for one another, and still make time to laugh and have fun along the way.

Group photo of 50 Sternies! — Second-year spring break – Rio nights with 50 Sternies!

Stern is a place where you can redefine your career, grow alongside incredible people, and build lifelong friendships. Although one of the biggest things I’ve learned at Stern is to embrace change, I wouldn’t change it for anything!

Spring break trip in Belize — First spring break trip in Belize

May 7, 2025May 7, 2025

Real World Lessons, Global Classrooms: The Electives That Made My Stern MBA Unforgettable

Author: Jairam, a Consortium and Robert Toigo Fellow, is a Full-Time MBA student specializing in Strategy, Finance, and Business Analytics. Originally born and raised in Guyana, Jairam earned his Accounting and Information Systems degree from CUNY Queens College and spent five years working in accounting and financial consulting in New York City. He also launched J-LOOP Kicks, a successful e-commerce business focused on the resale of limited-edition sneakers and apparel. At Stern, Jairam completed his MBA internship at Google and serves as the VP of Admissions for the Association of Hispanic and Black Business Students (AHBBS), VP of Career Development through Student Government, and VP of Alumni Relations for Management Consulting Association (MCA). In his free time, he enjoys playing sports, traveling, and mentoring underrepresented minorities.

Jairam Dookoo Headshot

Learning Beyond the Classroom

When I came to Stern, I was looking for more than lectures and case studies. I wanted real, on-the-ground experiences that would stretch me professionally and personally. What I found were electives that didn’t just teach business theory, but immersed me in it. Whether in a small town in Italy, a nonprofit board meeting in Brooklyn, or a classroom in Sydney, these courses gave me the chance to apply my passions in ways that were uniquely Stern.

Stern Signature Project: Helping an Italian Olive Oil Business Expand to the U.S.

As a former small business owner, I’ve always been passionate about helping entrepreneurs grow. So when I had the chance to apply for the Stern Signature Project, I went all in. My team and I partnered with a premium olive oil brand based in Palombara Sabina, Italy, working directly with the CEO and COO to craft a go-to-market strategy focused on expanding into the U.S., particularly the NYC market.

What made this elective unforgettable? We flew to Italy for a week of hands-on fieldwork, walking through the olive groves, observing the harvest and bottling process up close, and speaking directly with the family behind the business. Exploring the town of Palombara Sabina and its olive oil roots gave our project depth and meaning. It wasn’t just about strategy, but about understanding the culture, the craft, and the people behind it.

Few classes offer the chance to create real-world impact alongside passionate founders. This one did and it captured everything that Stern’s approach to experiential learning is about.

Olive Harvesting — Learning how to identify which olives are ready for harvest, straight from the experts.

Bottling site — With one of the partners at their bottling site, where each olive oil bottle is hand-labeled and sealed

Production site — Inside the production site with the team, watching olives get pressed into olive oil

Enjoying fresh pasta made with their incredible olive oil.

Board Fellows Program: Building Strategy for a Real Nonprofit

I’ve always dreamed of launching my own nonprofit someday, so when I saw the opportunity to join the Board Fellows Program, I knew I had to be part of it. Through this elective, my team and I partnered with an education-focused nonprofit to strengthen its board recruitment and governance strategy.

Together, we interviewed board members, synthesized key insights, and developed a strategic process map to guide recruitment and long-term board optimization. We worked closely with the board chair and our faculty advisor to implement best practices that improved how the board operates.

What made this elective so powerful wasn’t just what we learned. It was the chance to directly support a mission-driven organization while gaining a front-row seat to the realities of nonprofit leadership. For anyone interested in social impact, this course transforms classroom knowledge into real-world change.

Celebrating the organization’s 10-year anniversary alongside alumni and board members.

Our final Board Fellows class, led by Taneya and Nicole, before the big presentations

Doing Business In (DBi) Australia: Exploring Global Markets Firsthand

One of the coolest parts of Stern’s global focus is the Doing Business In (DBi) program, and DBi: Australia turned out to be one of the most unforgettable experiences of my MBA. It was also my first time in Australia, which made the learning that much more meaningful.

For two weeks in January, I attended classes at the Australian Graduate School of Management (AGSM) at the University of New South Wales, diving into topics like the financial sector, the intersection of government and business, and how cultural norms influence the way business is done. I also met with industry leaders and took a class trip to Taronga Zoo, where I learned about sustainability practices and how environmental values are integrated into everyday business decisions.

Outside the classroom, I made the most of my time exploring Sydney’s beaches, soaking in the local culture, and even checking off a bucket list moment: attending my first-ever Australian Open tennis match in Melbourne with classmates. Learning about global markets in a classroom is one thing, but experiencing them firsthand, halfway across the world? That’s something I’ll never forget.

Taking in the view of Sydney Harbour and the iconic bridge.

Post morning runs views at Sydney Opera house

Exploring Australia’s largest fish market

Selfie at my first-ever Australian Open!

DBi: Australia class pic at the vineyard.

Bonus Moment: Playing Basketball at the Barclays Center

While not technically an elective, one of the most unforgettable experiences I had at Stern was stepping onto the court at the Barclays Center to play in a basketball game against Columbia Business School. As someone who grew up watching games in arenas like that, it felt surreal to be out there with my teammates representing Stern under the bright lights.

Moments like these remind you that the MBA experience is about more than academics. It’s also about community, camaraderie, and creating memories you’ll talk about for years. Playing that game wasn’t just fun, it was one of those “I can’t believe this is real” moments that made my Stern journey all the more special.

Stern Hoops — Stern MBA basketball team in full force.

Why These Electives Stand Out

Looking back, these electives weren’t just classes, they were defining moments of my MBA experience. Whether I was building a market strategy for an olive oil business in a small Italian town, helping a nonprofit rethink its board structure, or exploring global business in Australia, each course gave me the chance to step outside the traditional classroom and learn by doing.

What makes Stern’s electives truly unique is how personal and hands-on they are. They’re not just about theory, they’re about connection, real-world impact, and stretching your perspective in ways you never expected. I came to Stern wanting more than just a degree. Through these experiences, I found exactly that.

March 17, 2025March 19, 2025

Beyond Borders: A Reflection on My Exchange Semester at LBS

Author: Sreekavitha is a technology and finance professional with a rich blend of academic excellence and diverse work experience. She holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s in Computer Science with a specialization in AI & ML from IIIT-Hyderabad, where she authored six research papers in AI and NLP. Her career began at Sprinklr, developing data analytics solutions for mega-cap clients like McDonald’s, Samsung, and L’Oréal. Driven by a passion for finance, Shree pursued an MBA from NYU Stern, specializing in Strategy, Finance, and Global Business. She was actively involved in several student-run clubs during her time at NYU. Her international exchange semester at London Business School further enriched her global business perspective, allowing her to develop intuitive insights into international markets. Shree gained valuable financial experience at Morgan Stanley as an Investment Banking Associate, working on high-profile deals and refining her strategic and analytical skills. She now leverages her diverse background as a Partner at MYCap Investments, managing a $4.4M portfolio with a focus on impactful, long-term value creation.

Sreekavitha Parupalli Headshot

One of the standout features of studying at London Business School (LBS) was the remarkable diversity within the student body. In my classes, I had the privilege of collaborating with and learning alongside talented individuals from all corners of the globe. On any given day, I might have worked on a case study with classmates from Peru, India, Belgium, and China. This exposure to a wide array of cultures, perspectives, and experiences was not only fascinating on a personal level but also provided invaluable preparation for leading in today’s globalized business world. I felt incredibly fortunate to be part of a community that embraced diversity not as an abstract ideal but as a living, breathing daily reality.

Upon arriving in London, I immediately noticed the stark differences between New York and London. I observed a change of pace in the lifestyle between London and New York. I encountered numerous brands that were unfamiliar to me, such as Primark, M&S Food, and Sainsbury’s. While housing prices were comparable to those in New York, the skyline of London featured more sky than skyscrapers. Whereas New York boasts Central Park, London dazzled me with Regent’s Park, Hyde Park, Primrose Hill, and many more. As someone accustomed to walking the distance in NYC, navigating London proved to be a challenge, prompting me to embrace the double-decker buses and the tube. Throughout my time in London, two recurring themes were Harry Potter and the Royal Family!

Moving beyond the city, I thoroughly enjoyed my classwork at LBS. The courses I took were intellectually stimulating, and I’d like to delve into describing a few of them. One standout was Achieving Strategic Agility, a course that explored how organizations can navigate the increasingly volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) business environment. It emphasized the importance of cultivating strategic agility – the ability to continuously sense, seize, and transform in the face of disruptive change. The frameworks and tools learned in this course proved invaluable during the Annual LBS Family Office Conference, where discussions often centered around how family offices can adapt to the changing global landscape, navigate uncertainties, and seize opportunities. Today, as I run a Family Office in India, I continue to rely on the concepts and insights I gained from professors like Ruper Merson, who taught Managing Corporate Turnarounds, and Narayan Naik, who taught Equity Investment Management.

Another significant takeaway was from the Pricing Strategy and Tactics course, taught by Professor Oded Koenigsberg. This course covered various aspects of pricing and its impact on a company’s profitability and competitive positioning. Guest speakers, like Fabrizio Fantini, CEO & Founder of Evo Pricing, shared their expertise and real-world examples of pricing challenges and strategies. Exploring price discrimination strategies, such as segmentation, bundling, and dynamic pricing, was particularly insightful. Additionally, the Mergers, MBOs & Other Corporate Reorganizations course provided a comprehensive understanding of corporate finance, focusing on various types of corporate transactions and their implications for value creation and governance. The global finance perspectives taught in this course extended beyond reorganization laws in the US to include insights from the UK, Europe, India, and other countries.

Being a 2nd generation entrepreneur myself, attending the Family Office Conference at LBS provided an incredible opportunity to connect with multi-generation family business owners and professionals from various wealth management verticals. Learning from their diverse experiences and building lasting relationships was a true privilege. The conference not only complemented the knowledge gained from courses but also offered practical insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by family offices in the real world.

The blend of academic knowledge and practical experiences has reinforced my desire to work in the family office space and contribute to the long-term success and sustainability of family businesses. Additionally, the international case studies and diverse classroom discussions at LBS have helped me develop a more global perspective on business and finance. Engaging with classmates and faculty from different countries and backgrounds has broadened my understanding of various cultural, economic, and political factors that influence business decisions worldwide. This exposure has made me more aware of the interconnectedness of our world and the importance of embracing diversity and inclusivity in both personal and professional settings, ultimately shaping me into a more well-rounded and global-minded individual.

Outside the classroom, I actively participated in various clubs including the Family Business Club, India Club, Entrepreneurship Club, and PE/VC Club. Interacting with the International Exchange Program (IEP) cohort enriched my understanding of academic and social life at their home schools. We often met after classes to explore the city together. Through these interactions, I forged friendships with fellow students like Jennifer Sun, whom I had not previously interacted with at Stern despite sharing many classes. If I could offer any advice to those considering an international exchange program, it would be – absolutely go for it!

October 2, 2024

Meet the Class of 2026

Author: Lindsay Loyd is the Executive Director for MBA Admissions at NYU Stern. She leads the recruiting and admissions efforts for Stern’s Full-time MBA Programs, including the two-year Full-time MBA, and focused one-year MBAs: the Andre Koo Technology & Entrepreneurship MBA and Luxury & Retail MBA. She joined NYU Stern in 2023 after a 20-year career in financial services, serving in roles of progressive responsibility in analytics, marketing and strategy at Capital One and American Express. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Washington State University, and an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. Outside of work, you can find Lindsay snowboarding with her family, baking a sweet treat, or reading a book.

Late summer and early fall in NYC are my absolute favorite times of the year. The weather is fantastic, and the vibes are high with back-to-school excitement. This is particularly true for MBA1s who are returning to school after time in the workforce. For the Admissions team, LAUNCH (NYU Stern’s MBA orientation) is our first chance to see 352 motivated individuals come together from all walks of life as one community, and embark upon their journey as Sternies.

Class of 2026 Sternies celebrating the start of LAUNCH at the Natural History Museum

This week, we published the class profile for the Class of 2026, which provides a statistical overview of the MBA1s. But as my team learned while reading applications and conducting interviews, each member of the class is so much more than a resume.

This class brings their knowledge from every conceivable sector of business and society: tech, finance, non-profit management, consulting, entrepreneurship, education, and the military, to name a few. But the richness of their experience goes so far beyond their resumes. We have former Division I college athletes. Accomplished marathoners, climbers, and cyclists. Content creators who’ve had videos and articles go viral. Rocket scientists, Ironman triathlon finishers, scuba divers, and volunteer coaches for the Special Olympics. Our incoming students are dedicated lifelong learners. Many have engaged in impressive pursuits, such as studying on Duolingo for over 1,000 consecutive days, earning purple belts in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and accumulating over 10,000 minutes of meditation practice since the pandemic began. We have representation from 50 countries and more than 70 languages.

They are passionate and intelligent. They are talented and ambitious. They are curious and embrace change. They are committed to improving themselves and the world around them.

They are Sternies.

So, the Class of 2026 has arrived, and just like that, the Admissions team switches gears and begins recruiting the Class of 2027. Our application is open and our first deadline is quickly approaching. For those of you who have already applied, thank you! Interview invitations will be sent out before you know it.

For those of you who are still considering us, take a look at the class profile and also connect with the students behind the numbers to see if NYU Stern is a place where you can see yourself grow. You can connect with our Graduate Ambassadors here.

We can’t wait to meet you!

June 17, 2024

DBi Mexico City

*Taylor Kessock is currently enrolled in the Langone MBA program at NYU Stern, and this blog post is a special contribution.*

Author: Taylor Kessock is a current Langone MBA student at NYU Stern, set to graduate in May 2025. While pursuing her MBA, Taylor works as a Vice President at Aon where she assists clients with risk transfer decisions including traditional insurance, health & benefits and bespoke products. Taylor has a focus on Private Equity firms and their portfolio companies. Post-MBA, Taylor aims to delve deeper into the intersection of enterprise risk management and evolving risks for companies such as talent, climate change, digital transformation and AI-driven solutions. At Stern, Taylor is involved in various organizations, such as Stern Women in Business and the Private Equity & Venture Capital Club.

As a Langone student, there are rare chances to truly dive into the MBA experience. Between the demands of a job that is far from a typical 9-5 and personal commitments, I found myself struggling to carve-out more time to network with my Stern peers. The opportunity to participate in a DBi seemed like a great way to experience the full-time atmosphere while only taking a short break (a week) from my job. The DBi Program gave me the chance to set aside my work and embrace the courses, my classmates, and a fabulous city. Mexico City appealed to me because I knew it was a thriving city that I had yet to cross off my bucket list. Throughout our experience, we focused on a few key areas of Mexico’s economy: entrepreneurship, hospitality, and healthcare

Partnership with IPADE

NYU partners with one of the top business schools of Mexico called IPADE. IPADE is ranked #1 for EMBA programs in Mexico and we could tell by the caliber of the professors we connected with and the guest speakers they brought in. The professors helped us understand the history of Mexico and how that plays into the current business environment, which is key given Mexico’s proximity to the US, its growing population, and the opportunities and challenges the country faces. These professors are keenly attuned with business leaders in Mexico and brought several of them in to speak with us, many of whom received their MBA from IPADE.

IPADE has a case study teaching philosophy and has written its own case studies that focus on businesses in the region. How the IPADE staff approached the cases made me recognize my own bias in comprehending the stories. I realized I was approaching the cases by focusing on the American way of reviewing a business to be “successful”, based on profitability or financial decisions, while ignoring the entrepreneurial drive and community benefit behind a firm. According to the professors, IPADE students read over 900 case studies during their time in the program. We made our dent in a few of these case studies, including one on El Fogoncito, a local restaurant chain that has been successful in developing and supporting its talent in a tough labor market. After our lesson, the owner brought in his famous El Gringo Tacos for the class to share!

El Fogoncito staff preparing El Gringo Tacos for the class

We spent most of the week at the IPADE campus, which should not be overlooked! The IPADE campus is beautiful and fostered a great environment for learning and conversation. IPADE serves meals and coffee on campus, creating a strong sense of community with the students. IPADE brought in several speakers to campus, such as the co-founders of Elery, a male-centric health clinic, and Jose Manual Arana, a successful CEO. These speakers all attended IPADE in some fashion and consider it their home away from home!

Company Visits

In addition to the speakers on campus, we went to the Modelo Factory & KidZania.

Modelo: Our visit to the Modelo factory taught us about US antitrust laws by learning about the agreement AB-InBev has in which they own and distribute Modelo products around the world. Instead, Modelo licenses out the formulas to Constellation Brands for selling the product into the U.S. markets. It was intriguing to observe that such a huge operation could take place within the city limits of Mexico City. Perhaps it is our bias coming from New York City, but in our experience, large manufacturing and production facilities – such as Groupo Modelo – typically exist outside of major cities.

KidZania: KidZania was truly a unique place and an impressive business. Throughout the tour, as well as the presentation and Q&A, it was clear that KidZania was successful due to its extreme level of focus on their customers (children). However, KidZania does not just focus on entertaining kids alone but sticks to the company’s mission to ensure the kids walk away from their experience with valuable lessons. It was fascinating to hear how KidZania thinks intentionally about the partners they work with, the architecture of their worlds, and the activities the kids go through to ensure the experience feels authentic – all while delivering on the promise and value of KidZania. One of my most memorable moments from the visits was when I asked about how they dealt with local politics and stood up for what they believe is right when necessary, as evidenced by ensuring that females can drive cars in KidZania UAE. I was truly inspired by the CEO’s drive and passion for the company’s mission.

Building Connections Outside the Classroom

In addition to a rich curriculum, Mexico City was a great place to experience culture, history & food! Throughout the week, our group organized various activities such as Lucha Libre, taco tours, and exploring the historical city. Mexico City is truly a great place to experience culture, not to mention the delicious food scene that rivals New York City’s. NYU organized a tour of the pyramids, an alumni networking at a historical club, and dinners so we could get to know each other! The tour of the pyramids was a must-do in the area, and we had a guide that explained their history, significance to the country and future preservation for the historical site. Throughout my time at NYU, I am always impressed by the community and my fellow classmates. The DBi experience truly enhanced my relationship and gave me amazing friendships that continued beyond Mexico City!

DBI Mexico city Co-hort at the Pyrarmids in Teotihuacán

May 7, 2024

My DBi New Zealand Experience

Author: Sarah Qin is an MBA Candidate at the Stern School of Business in NYU, specializing in Technology Product Management, Brand Management, and Strategy. Prior to Stern, Sarah worked in corporate finance at GE and consulting at Deloitte. Sarah interned at and will be returning to Estée Lauder as a Finance & Strategy Manager after graduating in May 2024. Sarah enjoyed being co-president of Stern Technology Association (STA) this past year and strengthening the tech community across the full-time, part-time, and focused MBAs.

Throughout my life, I always viewed New Zealand as this beautiful utopia, a place far away from me, somewhere I could easily visit on Pinterest but not so much in real life. When I discovered that Stern had a DBi program there, it stopped me in my tracks! The opportunity to spend two weeks there with my classmates, exploring its incredible scenery while learning about how business is done in that country, was too good to pass up! As someone who absolutely loves the summertime and dreads cold temperatures, it was a no-brainer for me to escape the cold New York winter for a few weeks and enjoy summer in New Zealand instead. I also happen to be a huge tennis fan, and the Australian Open and all its warm-up tournaments (including the Auckland Open) conveniently coincided with my DBi. Watching those matches live on TV in the same time zone and attending some matches in-person both during and after the DBi was another dream come true!

Despite Auckland being 16 hours ahead of NYC, I didn’t experience jet lag because I was that ecstatic to be in this paradise! The locals were so friendly, the scenery was breathtaking, and the Sauvignon Blanc was as crisp and refreshing as it gets! Moreover, the black sand beaches glistened in the sunlight, and there were abundant sheep in the lush rolling hills of the countryside. I also got to visit the Shire in person as well, and even though I have not watched any of the Lord of the Rings movies, I was blown away by the set design and felt like I was on an architectural digest tour for Hobbits. Waiheke Island, just a short ferry ride away from Auckland, was heavenly with its turquoise waters and endless supply of the finest quality wine. Everywhere I looked, there was a postcard view, and I had to pinch myself many times to remind myself that everything was real life and not simply a daydream or figment of my imagination.

Loved being a hobbit for the day at Hobbiton – I fit right in!

In addition to sightseeing with my friends, I also loved going to class and learning about the different industries in New Zealand. I realized that while New Zealand is ahead of the curve in many ways, there are also areas where it strives to improve, as no country is perfect. I learned that kiwis (nickname for New Zealanders) do not embrace risk and failure as freely as Americans do, and a big reason for this is because New Zealand is geographically much smaller than the States, resulting in fewer opportunities to fail. While an aspiring entrepreneur in the US can drive up and down Silicon Valley in California or even fly to New York City or Austin to present their business ideas to accelerators and venture capitalists, people in New Zealand primarily have Auckland as their one shot for success since much of the island is dedicated to tourism and farming.

Despite New Zealand’s substantial efforts in sustainability, the methane emitted by its sheep and cows has caused an environmental strain that is difficult to offset. Additionally, the construction industry is essential to the country but difficult to execute because of New Zealand’s predominantly rugged terrain. Similarly, the public transportation system is subpar, and people prefer to use their cars. As a result, there is little incentive for the government to invest in improving its public transport system. While New Zealand may resemble America on the surface, it is quite different in many aspects and has its own issues to address.

Nevertheless, it was refreshing to learn about how New Zealand actively acknowledges its shortcomings and makes significant strides to increasing investments in technology, dismantling Tall Poppy Syndrome, advocating for mental health, integrating its Māori and Pasifika populations into the community, and supporting entrepreneurs. One highlight of this DBi program was visiting an incubator called the Pacific Business Hub and learning about its support for start-ups and new businesses for the Pasifika community. It was inspiring to hear from successful entrepreneurs in New Zealand about how they beat the odds and have only become more passionate about their businesses over time. It is clear that New Zealand is so much more than a vacation spot for adventurous tourists or Australia’s “little sibling.” With its growing number of direct flights to different countries and efficient shipping routes for key exports like dairy products and wine, New Zealand has potential to add even greater value and become more connected with the rest of the world.

Auckland Open with fellow Sternies and tennis fans Bianca Dy and Misato Aiso

I’m so grateful for the adventures and educational takeaways I had from this trip, but ultimately, the top reason I loved my New Zealand DBi was the people! Despite completing three semesters at Stern, there are still hundreds of full-time MBAs, part-time MBAs, and focused MBAs who I have not met yet! During my time in New Zealand, existing friendships deepened, and acquaintances became friends who were also ideal people to karaoke with on a boat! As someone who typically travels solo or with a few friends, I realized how fun group travel can be, especially when Stern plans a significant part of the itinerary. Going to New Zealand as part of a two-week intensive study abroad program rather than simply visiting the country as a tourist allowed me to learn about intricacies of each industry rather than purely sightsee the main attractions. Consequently, I gained a more holistic understanding of how New Zealand operates and have developed a greater appreciation for everything the country has to offer. All I can say is that going on a DBi during MBA is a must, especially in New Zealand, and you will get FOMO (fear of missing out) not JOMO (joy of missing out) if you don’t go! So what are you waiting for? Book that flight today.

Pohutu Geyser (largest in the Southern Hemisphere!) in Rotorua

Ferry Ride to Waiheke — Scenic ferry ride from downtown Auckland to Waiheke Island

Company visit to Pacific Business Hub, a vibrant incubator for start-ups

Completed the Maypole with Olivia Cannarozzi and Sarah Sprole at the Shire

Waiheke Vineyards — Froliking in the Waiheke vineyards in the middle of wine tastings

Downtown Auckland — Serene view of the downtown Auckland skyline from the Viaduct Harbour