Stephanie Li, NYU Stern MBA Class of 2022
Age: 29
Hometown: Harbin, China – A northeastern city in China famous for hosting the largest ice and snow sculpture festival in the world.
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Jilin University, major in Finance, minor in Actuarial Science
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): Financial services – JPMorgan Treasury/Chief Investment Office, 5 years, New York
Why business school? Why now?
I have always been intrigued by investment banking roles and with a few years of working experience under my belt in the financial industry, I can see my career path much clearer. Attending business school will help me transition and advance my career goals in investment banking.
Why NYU Stern? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I know that my passion is in the financial industry, and NYU Stern is a top school with prestige in finance, especially investment banking, which is in line with my interests and career goals.
During my campus visit, I was super impressed with the open and collaborative environment at Stern. Students here are smart, talented, supportive, and down to earth, and I really think Stern is doing a great job in emphasizing the core value of IQ+EQ within the community. My first month at Stern has reflected this as well — my classmates with different backgrounds provide thoughtful ideas from unique perspectives, making the class very interesting and engaging.
Additionally, Stern allows students to choose up to three specializations, giving me the chance to learn something new and exciting other than what I have already been exposed to.
Last but not least, New York City is the world financial center and Stern’s location makes networking really easy and provides access to tons of great opportunities, from startup incubators to experiential learning.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2022?
As an international student with prior working experience in the US, I can bring in diverse opinions and, at the same time, understanding of cultural differences, which I hope can help instill an open and inclusive culture in the Class of 2022. As a Forté Fellow, I would like to keep advocating for women’s leadership and equality in the workplace.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I was a guest host on a radio station and the program was broadcasted to a population of one million.
Post-MBA career interests?
I am interested in investment banking post-MBA.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Rome wasn’t built in one day! My advice to the current prospective applicants is to start early and invest time to learn about different schools and programs. Don’t be shy — reach out to as many current students and alumni as possible since every school has a different focus and culture, and you should find a program that’s truly right for you.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
I would start the application process earlier to avoid stress.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I would love to skip the overthinking part while writing my essays. At the end of the day, it helps to be genuine, show your true compassion, and let your personality shine through. The process of writing an essay is also the process of uncovering your own interests and what matters most to you.
What is your initial impression of Stern’s students/culture/community?
Stern is a tight-knit and vibrant community. Students here are incredibly supportive and help each other. The core value of IQ+EQ shines.
One thing you have learned about Stern that has surprised you?
Stern provided a vast amount of resources electronically, from research databases to e-books.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
The calendar is filling quickly with interesting classes and recruiting/social events. I am anxious about managing my time and getting the most out of my first year as an MBA student.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am excited about making lifelong friends with a lot of smart, ambitious classmates with various backgrounds and interests.
