What first got you interested in your field of choice?

I was drawn to the MBS program because I heard of KGI’s incredible industry exposure. Information sessions with household-name firms like Amgen and Gilead visiting often to give students the “inside scoop” on what is really going on in industry. That had a huge draw on me and I can say I have not been let down. Certain events happen through the first year that make you stay with the program. An example of this is acquiring your required summer internship. With the name of a top 10 firm on my resume, I can safely say I have an outstanding talking point in interview and conversational settings for the rest of my life.

What type of obstacles have you had to overcome on the road to getting your education?

One obstacle that I am comfortable sharing is that I was fighting type ll Lymphoma during my first term at KGI. I didn’t let many people in on this until after the fact. I would disappear for days at a time for chemotherapy treatment and I discovered how willing my colleagues and professors were to accommodate me. I want to be clear-I wouldn’t recommend this course of action as it was very time consuming and took my attention away from a quality education. I do want to mention this story though to provide my perspective-anything is possible at KGI for those who will seek it.

How did you know that KGI was the right school for you?

I was unsure if I made the right choice in the beginning-as I’m sure anyone who attends graduate school can say in the beginning. These kinds of programs tend to be immensely competitive and it is hard for someone to say they have put “all of their eggs in one basket,” per the old adage. I think I knew KGI was the right school for me when I figured out exactly how many opportunities there were here for me to take advantage of. I took part in Amgen Visitation day and was even able to present at a TedX event on campus. Another reason I love KGI is because of the high expectations. I know this may sound strange, but you really do begin to feel like you are in a professional environment after your first few weeks here.

Why did you want to become an Admissions Ambassador?

I wanted to become an Admissions Ambassador to give back to the campus. I have been in search of a way to spread the small wisdoms I have stumbled upon during my short time here and when I was informed this was the first year for the Ambassador Program, I of course was compelled to send in my information for review. I am happy to report-as you may have guessed-that I was accepted to represent the school at local events and assisting growth for upcoming students. Nothing pleases me more than facilitating the success of others!

What is one fun and interesting fact about you?

One fun and interesting fact is that I am a twin. I get a lot of the same questions from folks after they learn this bit about me. Typically, I will get the “when one of you is punched, does the other feel it?” or sometimes “can you read each other’s mind?” Respectively no, and no we can’t. I will say though that I respect my little brother (yes, by four minutes) greatly and he pushes me to attain greater heights. He is actually working on his EdD at the moment-a doctorate degree in education.