Brittany Iwata, Johnson MBA Class of 2021
Age: 29
Hometown: Born in Vancouver, BC but spent most of my life in Seattle, WA
Undergraduate Institution and Major: University of Washington, Business Administration
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry):
Prior to Cornell, I spent 6.5 years working in the technology industry for Seattle-based security and IT analytics startup ExtraHop Networks. I started out as a marketing intern and quickly worked my way up to take over managing the international marketing events program. In my most recent role at the company, I worked with our customers to drive engagement and build advocacy.
Why business school? Why now?
Pursuing an MBA has been a long-time goal of mine since high school. But it wasn’t until I started looking into it seriously a few years ago that I recognized the true value in an MBA. Do I think an MBA is mandatory for someone who wants to succeed in the business world? Absolutely not. But I do believe that getting an MBA opens up doors to networks and opportunities and can accelerate the process for accomplishing those professional goals. Post-MBA, I’m looking to manage and lead teams. I know going through this experience will equip me to be a more well-rounded business leader.
Why Johnson? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
It was important to me to find a school with a tight-knit community and strong culture of shared success and collaboration; somewhere students would succeed, not at the expense of each other.
After visiting Cornell to interview on Consortium Super Day, it was evident just how close this Johnson community was. I couldn’t believe how everyone knew each other’s background, what career they were pursuing…etc., which would have been very difficult to do at a school with larger class sizes. Beyond my wildest dreams, I was also deeply fortunate to receive a Consortium Fellowship, which made the decision even easier.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2021?
Coming from the technology industry, I’ve adopted a “fail fast” mindset that encourages innovation, risk-taking, and growth. I’d like to think my classmates will appreciate and value this from me.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I’m a huge foodie and have Yelp Elite status. I’ve started to eat my way through Ithaca and can’t wait to try many more restaurants in NY!
Post-MBA career interests?
Post-MBA, I’m looking to go into management consulting – preferably for clients in the technology industry but I’m also very open to gaining new experience in other industries as well.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Apply through The Consortium! The Consortium is an incredible organization that works to enhance diversity and inclusion in top MBA programs and business organizations. Plus, they offer a streamlined application process that allows you to apply to multiple schools through a single application that saves time and money! I would highly recommend learning more at: https://cgsm.org
–One thing you would change or do differently?
Don’t feel like you need to study “on your own” before taking a GMAT/GRE prep class. Mastering these tests require specific strategies that you might not be aware of, so you might as well learn these from the get-go. Also, if the GMAT isn’t working for you after a few tries, don’t be afraid to try out the GRE as well.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I wish I could have skipped the waiting game after I hit submit on my applications. Try your best not to monitor your email inbox 24/7. Use this time to take a little breather from the process and focus your energy on something else for a few weeks, whether that’s work, reconnecting with family and friends, or a new hobby!
What is your initial impression of Johnson’s students/culture/community?
I’ve been really impressed to see how willing students are to put themselves out there so early on – inside and outside of the classroom. We’re in a very competitive environment and it can be hard to show vulnerability, but this Johnson community has been incredibly supportive and inclusive. I believe this strength will continue to set Johnson apart from many other top-tier business schools.
One thing you have learned about Johnson that has surprised you?
There are quite a few Johnson staff and faculty who are actually Cornell alumni – just goes to show how strong those connections are if folks are willing to come back to work/live in Ithaca!
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
The cold weather! Having lived most recently in LA and Seattle, I am not accustomed to the cold and will likely be hibernating or living in a full-length parka for the next six months.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m still in disbelief at all of the incredible opportunities that are available to MBAs. It’s rare to get the chance to make a huge career switch, and even more rare to have the resources that essentially pave the way to a successful future. This is absolutely one of those moments and I’m super excited to go through the recruiting process to land a highly coveted internship for next summer!
