Mac Coddington, Oxford MBA Class of 2020
Age: 26
Hometown: Sylvan Lake, Michigan
Undergraduate Institution and Major: University of Michigan, Political Science and Organizational Studies
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): I worked at Google for 4 years in Mountain View and in Chicago.
Why business school? Why now?
After working with companies to harness the benefits of machine learning, I knew this was a focus area I’d like to pursue. It’s a dynamic field, and I feel that business school will provide a solid foundation of skills for working in a quickly evolving environment.
Why Oxford? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I immediately knew that Oxford was the right fit for me after a campus visit. Oxford Saïd attracts such an incredibly diverse cohort from so many backgrounds and from all corners of the world. During my visit I met incredible people working on wide ranging impactful projects. I knew this was the group I wanted to be a part of.
In addition to the business school, I was also drawn to the college system of Oxford. I’m excited that I’ll be a part of not only the business school, but also a college with its own events and resources. I think it’s a rare opportunity to be able to meet and learn from peers studying dramatically varying topics, and I’m eager to join both communities.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2020?
I think my experience working in tech has given me exposure and insight into the opportunities and challenges technology has created for varying industries.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I once spent 40 days traveling around New Zealand living in a camper van.
Post-MBA career interests?
My goal is to pivot into consulting, focusing on digital transformations.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Hands down, visiting campus. Being able to meet with current students, faculty, and other applicants was a great way for me to gauge program fit.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
I would have started preparing a bit earlier though official applicant channels offered by programs. Schools offer so many events, webinars, newsletters, etc. to help guide prospective students through the application process, I wish I would have taken advantage of these resources earlier on while applying.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Standardized testing. It had been quite a while since I’d taken a standardized test, and studying while working was challenging. Luckily I had great encouragement from friends, family, and coworkers.
What is your initial impression of Oxford’s students/culture/community?
Everyone is very excited, welcoming, and supportive. Before the program even started people were voluntarily organizing groups and offering advice, based on personal experiences, to peers looking to pivot to new fields.
One thing you have learned about Oxford that has surprised you?
I’m still getting used to all of Oxford’s quirky traditions. I just picked up my sub fusc, which is an academic gown that has to be worn while taking exams.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Having time to participate in all of the activities I’d like to join. There’s so much to do, from attending talks to attempting the Oxford tradition of rowing, and of course classes. I’d like to take advantage of all of the opportunities I’m able to partake in.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m most excited to meet and learn from all of my peers in the program who come from such interesting backgrounds.
