Walker White, Darden’s MBA Class of 2022
Age: 28
Hometown: Richmond, Virginia
Undergraduate Institution and Major: United States Military Academy at West Point; Majored in both International Relations and Portuguese with a minor in Systems Engineering
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): Army – 2 years; Banking at JPMorgan– 2 years;
Development Finance, as a Development Fellow at Sanivation and as an intern at the US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) – 6 months in total
Why business school? Why now?
I left the Army earlier than expected due to an injury and am so thankful I had the opportunity to work at a firm like JPMorgan after I transitioned. I am committed to finding ways to use the leadership and technical skills I developed in those past experiences to have an impact, scaling bold ideas in development. My time at Sanivation was a great example of the kind of work I loved to do.
I applied when the learning curve at my last job started to flatten, realizing that I needed an immersive experience like Darden’s case method to achieve my goals. I am approaching business school as a way to broaden my expertise and learn collaboratively alongside people that are passionate about business impact.
Why UVA Darden? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I wanted a school that would push me both personally and professionally. Darden is a school that prioritizes a rigorous educational experience and challenges students to define and pursue their purpose.
More specifically, I wanted a school where teamwork and community were at the forefront and experiential learning was integrated into the curriculum. Darden’s class size, emphasis on learning teams, and commitment to the case method met those criteria.
Of note, Darden’s espoused values truly stood out to me. “Powered by Purpose” is a phrase that you will see across the school and this permeates through both the faculty and student body.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2022?
I bring a diverse and broad set of experiences to the community here. There are people that have been in the military, people who have experience in finance, and people who have spent time in development, but to have all three is uncommon. Having this varied professional background gives me a shared experience with a broader group of people. I also have a larger period of time that I have spent as a “beginner” which (hopefully) allows me to explain difficult concepts in a way that is more accessible.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I am passionate about yoga and meditation. I was certified as an instructor and practice outside with classmates. It’s a great way to build community and facilitate resilience in this environment.
Post-MBA career interests?
Impact Investing and Strategy Consulting; long term I would like to emphasize social impact in my career.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Know what you are looking for out of business school from a professional standpoint as well as the type of experience you are seeking. I focused on finding schools that matched my values as I was narrowing down my application list and this is how I found such a great fit with Darden.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
I wish I had reached out to more people in the clubs that I am now involved in to learn about opportunities that each school provides.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I think everyone would love to skip standardized testing. Putting a test date on the calendar and committing time and energy to be successful is crucial.
What is your initial impression of UVA Darden’s students/culture/community?
The people that Darden admits and hires value authentic relationships. This community is committed to getting to know each other on a personal level and helping each other to achieve our goals.
One thing you have learned about UVA Darden that has surprised you?
I am surprised by how accessible the faculty are. More than just office hours, faculty here spend time getting to know the student body and support them both personally and professionally.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I have the worst FOMO (fear of missing out) of anyone you will meet. There are so many opportunities here to pursue passions and not enough hours in the day to take advantage of them all.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am excited to look back at the end of the year and see how much I have learned. Having just finished the first quarter’s curriculum, it is amazing to see the new skills I have acquired.
