Satoko Watanabe, Chicago Booth MBA Class of 2020
Age: 31
Hometown: Saitama, Japan
Undergraduate Institution and Major: University of Tokyo, law
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Bank of Japan, the central bank of japan, for five and a half years. I worked on on-site examination, researching legal issues related to electronic fund transfer and supporting development of financial market infrastructure.
Why business school? Why now?
I felt that my current intellectual abilities and way of thinking based on the public sector and legal expertise were insufficient, so I decided to apply to business school to absorb perspectives of private sector leaders, gain a strong foundation in finance and economics and further develop my interpersonal skills.
After five and a half years of work experience, this is the right moment for me to keep distance from a familiar place and broaden my horizons professionally and academically by diving into diverse culture.
Why Booth? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I was drawn to Booth’s distinctive intellectual approach, the emphasis on the connection between academic theory and practical insights, and experiential learning environment with basis of fundamentals.
Also, Booth’s flexible curriculum and collaborative global community were attractive to me.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2020?
Having worked as a central banker, I hope I will be able to share my knowledge and experience from the public sector.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
Love traveling and watching sports, especially baseball. Looking forward to going to watch major league baseball.
Post-MBA career interests?
I will return to the Bank of Japan after earning my MBA.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Talking to alumni and current students is the best way to get a deep understanding of each school’s culture. They would be happy to share their experience and give you useful advice. As I was out of the United States, I didn’t have the opportunity to visit the schools I was applying to. To learn more about the learning environment, I had to rely on reaching out to students and I really appreciated their great support.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
If possible, apply during the first round. This would give you plenty of time to find funding options, plan for relocation, apply for your visa and interact with alumni and current students, especially if you are an international student.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Every part of the application process was challenging and necessary for me. Among them, writing essay is a valuable chance to reflect on where you are at in your career and share your passions with others. I got through them thanks to my family, friends and colleagues.
What is your initial impression of Booth’s students/culture/community?
They have a strong desire for self-improvement. They are always energetic and passionate.
One thing you have learned about Booth that has surprised you?
The people are so willing to help each other. I am really impressed by how generous the second-year students and the faculty are with their support.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Time and energy management. As two years will not be enough to take advantage of all the learning and networking opportunities, you have to prioritize and focus on what you really want to accomplish.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Countless opportunities of building strong relationships with fascinating people from diverse backgrounds.
Clear Admit Resources
Want to learn more about Chicago Booth? We encourage you to consider all of Clear Admit’s offerings:
- Chicago / Booth School of Business Profile on the Clear Admit website: up-to-date advice and admissions information
- Essay Topic Analysis: Clear Admit’s expert advice on how to tackle Chicago Booth’s application
- Clear Admit LiveWire: admissions updates submitted in real time by applicants to Booth
- Clear Admit DecisionWire: school selections in real-time by admits to Booth
