Stef Rubinstein, Ross MBA Class of 2019
Age: 25
Hometown: Northbrook, IL
Undergraduate Institution and Major: University of Michigan, political science
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Most recently, I spent two years at the New York Times as the project manager for NYT Cooking. Before that, I worked at the White House for a year and a half on internal-facing technology in operations.
Why business school? Why now? As a political science undergrad, I thought I’d work in the public sector my whole life. At the Times, I discovered my passion for consumer-facing digital products. I wanted to work in product management, but felt my education and experience up to that point hadn’t provided me with the tools I needed for continued success. I thought business school would help me fill the gaps.
Why Ross? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend? For me, Ross’s main differentiator was the community. Most top business programs provide students with excellent educational and professional support, as Ross does. I realized that what mattered most was who I would be surrounding myself with. Support and inclusivity are integral to Ross’s culture. I was looking for classmates who would challenge and better me, not undercut me. In my first few months here, I’ve been so inspired by the passion, brilliance, and humility of my fellow classmates.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2019? I’ve been fortunate enough to work for two unique organizations. At the White House, I learned operations and technology at a place where everything is mission-critical. At the Times, I contributed to an organization going through tremendous change. I will bring those experiences and a unique perspective to everything I do.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application? I attended a Pitbull concert on the South Lawn of the White House for the staff Fourth of July party. It was one of the best and weirdest nights of my life.
Post-MBA career interests? I want to work in digital product management on a consumer-facing product that moves society and progressive causes forward.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process? I was very intentional about where I applied. I chose places because they fit with my values and what I hoped to achieve, not solely for rank or reputation. I never felt like I had to lie or embellish about who I was. I stayed true to myself throughout the entire process.
–One thing you would change or do differently? I wouldn’t have stressed so much about the GMAT! I got so caught up on “being bad at math,” but I actually just lacked confidence in my abilities. I sacrificed everything that kept me sane—cooking, exercise, sleep, yoga—to study. Those sacrifices worked against me; on the real exam, I scored 80 points below my best practice test.
Fortunately, I’d signed up for a second GMAT 16 days later at the advice of a friend. I relaxed and took practice tests over those 16 days and scored 150 points higher on my second exam. Investing in my health and relaxing was the key to a good score, not incessant stress and studying.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it? I wish I could’ve fast forwarded the whole decision waiting period. I was incredibly anxious. I let myself indulge in a limited (or not-so-limited) amount of Clear Admit stalking but tried hard to trust in the process.
Greatest highlight so far at Ross? Ross organizes a 10-day trip called MTrek, which helps you get to know classmates and experience the world. I went to the south of France and Spain and loved my experience. I appreciated the time to decompress after orientation and had a great time, but the best part was the people. I made close friendships and started off my Ross experience with 13 awesome new friends.
One thing about Ross that you didn’t expect before arriving? Everyone tells you that business school is busy, but I did not realize just how crunched for time I’d be. There aren’t enough hours in the day to do everything, so I’ve been learning to prioritize what’s important.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year? I did not come to school with so-called traditional business experience, so I’m not used to using phrases like “synergies” or “capital expenditures.” Though I’m beginning to master these concepts, I may have a steeper learning curve than some of my classmates.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year? One of my primary goals for business school is to start my own business, and I’m excited to hit the ground running during my first year. Ross offers an abundance of opportunities and support to students pursuing entrepreneurship, and I plan on taking full advantage of those resources.
