Jasmine Terry, UNC Kenan-Flagler MBA Class of 2021
Age: 27
Hometown: Charlotte, NC
Undergraduate Institution and Major: UNC Charlotte, Software and Information Systems with a minor in Spanish
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry):
I spent the last two years in Dallas, TX, as a Systems Analyst for New York Life Insurance Company. Prior to that, I worked as an IT business analyst at Bank of America in Charlotte, NC, for two years.
Why business school? Why now?
After much deliberation and research of the career opportunities in data analytics, I felt like I needed to sharpen my business, analytical, and technical skills in order to reach my full potential and accelerate my career.
I chose to go back to school now due to the fact that I was beginning to feel stagnant in my career. Going back to school will equip me with skills to further develop and progress my career in the short and long term.
Why UNC Kenan-Flagler? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Although technology is evolving and become a major part of MBA programs, not all programs have that analytical/technical specification. Offering a Data, Digital Analysis, and Technology enrichment, and having the presence of a Business Technology club played a role in my decision to choose Kenan-Flagler. Having technical coursework and location (I wanted to be in the Southeast) were major factors in my decision of where to attend.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2021?
One of my most differentiating contributions is my diverse perspective. I can be a voice for a very small and less visible population at Kenan-Flagler as we continue to strive to make Kenan-Flagler a diverse and inclusive community.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
My favorite hobby is attending Inferno Hot Pilates classes!
Post-MBA career interests?
I would like to obtain a role in business/data analytics, using data to predict behavior and create business solutions.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Make sure to schedule campus visits when applying to business school. Going to see the school for yourself and interacting with the students and staff will allow you to get a good feel for whether the school’s culture is a right fit for you.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
One thing I would do differently is to reach out to alumni and current students about their experiences in the program. I was afraid I would be a bother if I reached out to others, but now that I am enrolled, I find that many of us love sharing our experiences about applying and being in the program.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it? If I could have skipped a part of the application process it would be to stop stressing. It can be a nerve-racking time period, but stressing can take time away from getting things done. Everything will all work out!
What is your initial impression of UNC Kenan-Flagler’s students/culture/community?
My initial impression was that the Kenan-Flagler community exuded excellence. The professors are extremely intelligent and have worked on world-class research projects. Many of the students are also involved in top notch projects and organizations.
One thing you have learned about UNC Kenan-Flagler that has surprised you?
It is no secret that business school is challenging. I was surprised to learn how supportive and willing to help everyone is. There is always someone willing to lend a helping hand, whether that is faculty, staff, 2nd-year students or my fellow 1st-year classmates.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I am most anxious of having the fear of missing out! There are so many events, conferences, speakers, etc. that happen on and off campus. I would love to attend them all, but know that realistically that may not be able to happen.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am most excited about participating in student-run organizations. Kenan-Flagler has so many clubs and organizations for MBA students to join and I am so excited to get involved in different clubs.
