Ismail “Ish” Simpson, SMU Cox MBA Class of 2020
Age: 34
Hometown: Lawton, Oklahoma
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Stanford University, Communication
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): Apple – Business Analyst 7 years; Venture Capital, 2 years; Business Development Manager in Marketing for 2 years
Why business school? Why now?
I wanted to go to business school to pivot careers and now is the correct time for me because I’ve worked in many industries and now I know which one suits me best.
Why SMU Cox? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I was attracted to Cox because of the small class size and the proximity to the thriving Dallas business community.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2020?
I think I bring a diverse set of work experiences and I’m a former college football player.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I lived in Heidelberg, Germany for 3 years when I was a kid.
Post-MBA career interests?
Investment Banking, Corporate Strategy
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I connected with a Cox alum and he was extremely helpful.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
If I was going through the application process again I would tell myself to reach out to alums in my area to get their opinion.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Don’t know that I would have skipped anything, but hearing from someone who had already been in my shoes was great.
What is your initial impression of SMU Cox’s students/culture/community?
The community at SMU Cox is eager to help you succeed. I’ve met SMU alums both on and off campus who are always willing to give you some of their time in order to help you.
One thing you have learned about SMU Cox that has surprised you?
We are given many opportunities to interact with potential employers right when we show up on campus.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I’m a little anxious about returning to school after having been out in the work world for so many years.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m excited to be a student again, I’m excited to get to know my classmates better, and I’m excited to learn as much as I can from the great faculty we have at SMU Cox.
Clear Admit Resources
As you work on your SMU / Cox MBA essays and application, we encourage you to consider all of Clear Admit’s SMU / Cox offerings:
- SMU Cox Profile on the Clear Admit website: up-to-date advice and admissions information
- Clear Admit LiveWire: admissions updates submitted in real time by applicants to SMU Cox
- Clear Admit DecisionWire: school selections in real-time by admits to SMU Cox
