Runu Ukwade, Chicago Booth MBA Class of 2020
Age: 30
Hometown: Houston, TX.
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Georgia Institute of Technology, Electrical Engineering
Pre-MBA Work Experience: After graduating from Georgia Tech, I spent 3 and half years working in finance (investment banking, private equity) and most recently 2 and half years working on an operations team at Facebook.
Why business school? Why now?
My decision came down to three points:
First, as an engineering undergrad major, I want to improve my business knowledge foundation and expand my business problem-solving toolkit.
Second, through Booth, I can interact with students from various sectors/backgrounds and cultures I would not have access to had I stayed in my industry and broaden my professional and personal perspectives.
Third, I want to build on my leadership capabilities in a structured environment outside of a work setting. I’ve reached a point in my career where going to business school makes sense to become a stronger business leader.
Why Chicago Booth? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
My decision to attend Booth was primarily driven by the school’s curriculum and culture. Having worked in multiple industries prior to business school, I want to tailor my education towards my development areas while building on my knowledge gained through work experience.
Through Booth’s flexible curriculum, I can accomplish these goals. In addition, the school’s pay-it-forward culture aligns with my own values. The first- and second-year classes are fairly intertwined at Booth.
As a first-year student, you have the opportunity to take classes with second-year students, which helps facilitate knowledge sharing and deepen relationships across classes.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2020?
I will bring a broad professional perspective to the classroom. My pre-MBA experience in finance and operations is unique.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I ran the digital marketing campaign for a Pittsburgh-based Chicken & Waffles food truck. I knew the truck owner when he lived in Houston, and I wanted to use Facebook to help the owner build his business in Pittsburgh.
Post-MBA career interests?
Immediately after business school, I want to pursue a career in management consulting. Through management consulting, I’ll have the opportunity to build on the knowledge acquired at Booth and work with several clients across multiple industries.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I was a member of Management Leadership for Tomorrow’s (MLT) MBA prep program. My MLT Coach and MBA prep peers really helped me stay focused throughout the process and reduce application anxiety. I encourage applicants to work with an MBA prep program or consulting service, especially if you are coming from a non-traditional background.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
I would have locked down my GMAT score sooner. Writing essays and the applications would have been easier If I did not have to divide my horsepower across multiple fronts.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I don’t think I would have skipped any part of the application process. However, I would say that writing essays was the most challenging part. I really had to dig deep and figure out what I wanted my professional and personal legacy to be. My friends, families, and peers really helped ensure that I remained true to my authentic self throughout the writing process.
What is your initial impression of Booth’s students/culture/community?
The Booth community is very smart, inclusive, and humble. Alums and current students are eager to help in any facet of my experience from choosing classes to navigating Chicago. I had numerous conversations with alums once I was accepted into Booth and realized that this empathetic network would be present for the rest of my life
One thing you have learned about Booth that has surprised you?
Booth is known for its analytical rigor, however an additional focus on soft skills and leadership development has most surprised me.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I’ve been out of a school setting for a while so getting used taking classes and studying again will be interesting.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m looking forward to meeting as many of my classmates as possible. My class is comprised of students from many countries and professional backgrounds and I view my two years in business school as a great opportunity to meet a lot of different people.
