Natalia Levit, Stanford GSB MBA Class of 2021
Age: 26
Hometown: Buenos Aires, Argentina
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Universidad Torcuato Di Tella, economics
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 4.5 years working in the tech space
Why business school? Why now?
From a professional standpoint, an MBA is the best way to continue growing into a leader that positively influences lives. At the same time, an MBA will enhance my entrepreneurial mindset and give me the tools to take my entrepreneurship ideas to the next level. I will immerse myself in experiential courses under the guidance of experts, which will help me develop a broader vision of business.
From a personal standpoint, an MBA is an opportunity to meet and learn from incredible people from all walks of life, to continue developing my self-awareness and ultimately grow as a person.
Why Stanford? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
From the first moment I set foot on the Stanford campus, I knew from the people I encountered that it was the right place for me to grow and really venture beyond myself to change lives.
Stanford is the only school that has listening, diversity, self-discovery, and the worthwhile ambition to change the world in its DNA. Leadership development at Stanford is really personal and I admire it for empowering the next generation of leaders to create a world in which honest feedback strives.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2021?
That’s a tough one! I would say the Latin American perspective of a woman that has always strived in male-dominated environments and my willingness to take the power of listening to its highest level through every possible interaction.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I am a good sushi chef. Shh! Don’t tell my classmates. I still have to get my sushi making kit!
Post-MBA career interests?
Start my own entrepreneurial venture in Latin America.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Do as much research as possible on the different business schools, talk with as many students and alumni as you can, and visit the schools to get a feel of the classes and the environment if you have the chance. The application process is very time-consuming! You don’t want to spend time applying to a school you wouldn’t be thrilled to attend.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
Try to think of the application process as an opportunity for self-reflection and don’t over-stress about it. I panicked over minor stuff that at the end didn’t really make the difference. Try to spend as much of your time as possible reflecting on who you are and how you became that person rather than going over your essay infinite times. Be your true self and share your story! At the end, that’s what matters the most.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
The days after the interview and before the final decision were nerve wracking to me. My advice here: be patient, acknowledge that you gave it all and that there’s nothing else you can do to improve your chances. Take some days off and enjoy your time with friends and family! You deserve it, you are almost done!!!
What is your initial impression of Stanford’s students/culture/community?
I must admit I came with high expectations, but Stanford definitely surpassed them in all dimensions. Every single person that I met is unique, and I was amazed by the diversity of backgrounds and perspectives.
Since the first day, Stanford has encouraged all of us to get outside of our comfort zones in multiple ways, to find and commit to our passions. I still cannot believe I am here; I am so grateful!
One thing you have learned about Stanford that has surprised you?
We can take electives across all Stanford schools and Stanford has one of the best design schools in the world! I am really looking forward to taking classes at the d.school!
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Time management and trade-offs. There are so many things happening at the same time, that it is incredibly hard to say no and stick to your priorities. 24 hours per day are not enough!!
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Getting to know my classmates is my number one priority for this year. It’s a lifetime opportunity to be surrounded by such incredibly diverse people. I can’t wait to get to know them better.
