Jack Moriarty, Cornell Johnson MBA Class of 2020
Age: 26
Hometown: Boxford, Massachusetts
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Boston University, political science
Pre-MBA Work Experience: I spent three years in the healthcare sector, initially in information technology at Allscripts before moving to care delivery at a primary care startup called Iora Health. Prior to business school, I had the opportunity switch things up and serve with AmeriCorps in an environmental and disaster preparedness capacity—an incredibly fulfilling experience.
Why business school? Why now? Our generation faces a set of uniquely demanding challenges on a global scale—from climate change, to building an inclusive economy, to a decline in the vitality of democratic institutions. To confront any of these challenges successfully, organizational leadership skills are critical. The MBA provides not only an unparalleled opportunity to gain the tools to lead an organization effectively, but also the learning environment to actively practice and develop those skills over the course of two years.
Why Johnson? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend? First on my criteria list for business school was culture—I wanted a program that prided itself on community and relationships. Johnson is that program. I was also deeply fortunate to receive a Roy H. Park Leadership Fellowship, which involves an intensive leadership development curriculum. I knew that in the true spirit of general management my academic journey would eventually take me outside of the business school. Cornell University is an academic giant in so many disciplines, and as a Johnson student those resources are truly at your fingertips.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2020? This is a difficult question, as I’m frequently humbled by the accomplishments that my classmates bring to the table. I would say my contribution involves some of the specific questions I’ve come to business school to try to answer: How can markets that are most fundamental to the public interest—healthcare, education, infrastructure, energy, media—be structured to reward firms that maximize social value? How can we move toward a shared and more accountable capitalism?
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application? When I was 9 years old, I was on Nickelodeon’s “Slime Time” Live TV show along with my twin sister! (Alas, I did not get slimed.)
Post-MBA career interests? In the short-term, I plan to be active in the 2020 U.S. presidential campaign. Longer term, I’d like to be part of an organization that is scaling employee ownership of firms.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process? Reach out and schedule time with faculty during campus visits. These appointments are incredible opportunities to connect with people that are intellectual and professional leaders in their fields. Faculty members both in and outside of Johnson were gracious enough to grant their time during my application process, showing just how accessible the Cornell community is, even for a prospective student.
One thing you would change or do differently? If I had to do it over again, I would start writing my essays earlier in the process (obviously easier said than done when you’re preparing for the GMAT). The reason I recommend doing so is because your narrative is the most important aspect of your application, and it’s absolutely critical to “know your why.” The earlier you’re able to work through that introspective process the better.
Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it? The waiting! I applied in a later round, but knowing that I’d submitted my best application provided some relief. Don’t rush it for the sake of receiving a decision sooner.
One thing you have learned about Johnson that has surprised you? The commitment to developing team leadership skills has been a pleasant surprise. Every top business school has core teams, but Johnson invests significant time and attention into getting the most out of this experience. This includes a dedicated pre-term course called “Leading Teams,” as well as a related more hands-on practicum, structured feedback opportunities throughout the fall semester, and a focus on how you’re progressing on individual development goals.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year? For the first time in my life, I’m a Red Sox fan living in Yankee territory. This could make for an awkward October.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year? Continuing to make meaningful connections with classmates, faculty, and staff. Johnson is full of bright, ambitious, thoughtful, and diverse people with unique perspectives and backgrounds. Some of my favorite moments this year have been casually striking up a conversation with a classmate or staff member and walking away with valuable food for thought for the rest of the day.
