Stefano Ratto Schol, Kellogg Two-Year MBA Class of 2022
Age: 28
Hometown: Lima, Perú
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Universidad de Lima, Industrial Engineering
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 4 years, Innovation/Product Development/Channel Management in Banking
Why business school? Why now?
I really enjoyed my time at my previous company. I had the chance to work (and learn) in different areas; each one of them with its unique opportunities and challenges. Throughout the years, I realized that I needed to develop my leadership skills while also fostering my analytical skills in areas such as Finance and Data Analytics. Going to business school perfectly suited my goals in this way.
Why Kellogg? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I was looking forward to developing my leadership skills and learning more about innovation and entrepreneurship. Kellogg offers hands-on experience in these areas with world-class faculty. Kellogg’s flexible curriculum also meant I can shape my own MBA journey.
Second, as an international student, I had many questions regarding the MBA experience. Kellogg’s current students and alumni were sincerely helpful. They were really humble and showed me an unbiased view, and provided clarity for everything I was confused about. Speaking with current students and alumni gave me a sense of belonging.
Finally, Kellogg’s students have a low-ego, high-impact attitude, which fits me too. In my opinion, all the people I’ve (virtually) met so far have been amazing. They have been really understanding of the fact I’ve yet to arrive in Evanston. For example, I remember I had some difficulties meeting for group assignments due to the fact that I was traveling from Peru to Ecuador to get my student visa. My group was really understanding about this so we end up splitting the work and re-scheduling for times that would fit me! From staff to faculty and student body, they have been great throughout these unprecedented times!
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2022?
Having worked at a major bank in Perú during the bank’s own cultural transformation has taught me to navigate through uncertainty. I was lucky enough to always work in a multidisciplinary team, ranging from business-related individuals to IT developers to designers. We were always doing research with our clients, listening to their insights. I hope to bring such diverse viewpoints to the class.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I once swam a 22km-long event. I expected to finish in 5-6 hours but due to unexpected changes, it took me 9 hours. I could not raise my arms for 4 days afterward.
Post-MBA career interests?
Throughout my life, I have always been passionate about technology. Since I was young, I remember reading tech-related magazines and articles and learning about how technology helped to improve our lives. When I was part of the innovation area in my former company, I loved working on tech-related products and seeing how these products improved our clients’ satisfaction. After Kellogg, I want to be part of a company that, by using technology and closely listening to its customers, helps to shape and improve the day-to-day life of its consumers.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Ask and listen to your workmates, friends, and family. Applying to business school is an introspective journey. You are going to learn a lot about yourself and your motivations and, many times, your friends are going to be a great support system whenever you feel like quitting.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
Since writing the essays and thinking about your motivations is such a time-consuming task, I would rather take the GMAT as soon as possible. If you feel you might be applying to business school in 3-4 years, study and take the GMAT now. Trust me, you do not want to be running short on time when the application deadline comes and you still need to take (or want to improve) the GMAT.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I was afraid of the video question in the application. I was afraid of blanking out if the question was “too hard.” Nevertheless, I remember that I went for a run just before doing it to let some steam off. Also, preparation is key! Practice, practice, practice.
What is your initial impression of Kellogg’s students/culture/community?
I am really surprised at how Kellogg is delivering its hybrid-learning model. Covid-19 has established a new normal, especially for those of us who have not yet been able to travel to Evanston. Kellogg has been really supportive about this. Not only are the faculty and staff doing an awesome job, but the students who are already in Evanston make it easy for us (the ones abroad) to participate in extracurricular activities. Shout out to all of them! I am really looking forward to finally arriving in Evanston!
One thing you have learned about Kellogg that has surprised you?
I was not expecting to have so many opportunities to give back to other students and to the community at Kellogg. There are several clubs that resonate with me and each one of them gives all of us a chance to give back. Currently, I’m working on a project for the Kellogg Impact Consulting Club with an Evanston-based NGO related to mental health services. In Perú, I used to help health-related NGOs in different areas. I love how I was able to keep doing this kind of activity at Kellogg. Additionally, Interview Prep Groups and the Career Management Center are two great resources that have helped me stay calm during the beginning of the recruiting process. Kellogg’s community is always offering assistance in every imaginable way.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
When I was talking with current students last year, they all told me I was going to have to prioritize activities. I never actually thought that it was going to happen so soon. Kellogg has MANY events for recruiting, career development, social support, and many others. I never thought I was going to have to prioritize so soon. Since pre-term, we are given the chance to participate in several events. FOMO IS REAL!
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am really looking forward to meeting all my classmates in person. I cannot wait to learn from their diverse and incredible experiences.
