Frances Amaefuna, Carey MBA Class of 2022
Age: 24
Hometown: West Orange, New Jersey
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Rutgers University, New Brunswick; Major: Psychology | Minor: Sociology & Business Administration
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): I completed my first year of law school prior to starting my MBA at Carey Business School. Preceding my attendance at Maryland Law, I worked as a summer legal intern for various district court and superior court judges in New Jersey. I took a gap year following undergrad and worked as a nanny, which allowed me to save, travel, and prepare for graduate school. Although not a professional work experience, I gained valuable life skills throughout that time. Subsequent to my first year of law school I worked as a legal intern for Baltimore County’s Office of Public Defenders and as a constitutional law legal research assistant.
Why business school? Why now?
I have had an interest in an MBA since completing my minor in Business Administrations during undergrad. I wanted to expand on my different opportunities while also diversifying my analytical skills and professional background. When introduced to the incredible dual program between Maryland Carey Law and Hopkins Business School, I knew now was the time to pursue something I’ve talked about for years. Interestingly enough, being remote during this pandemic make it a lot easier to be at two places at once.
Why JHU Carey? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I have a strong interest in health law and when presented with the opportunity to pursue my MBA at Hopkins, one of the leading health care systems in the US, I knew it was the right place. The Hopkins’ network almost seems endless and the resource available make for just a bright future.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2022?
My most valuable contribution is my different perspective as a JD/MBA student who is also able to incorporate the intersections of her identity as a first-generation, Nigerian-American woman.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
During my senior year of undergrad, I participated in a multi-cultural pageant and did a “TEDx Talk” as my talent, in front of over 400 people. It was a motivational speech on internal growth, self-confidence, and taking risks in life. I did not win the pageant but I am so grateful I got the chance to share my story. Those public speaking skills surely came in handy here at Carey Business School.
Post-MBA career interests?
Later in my career, I hope to practice Elder Law, but leading up to that point I am interested in exploring areas that intersect law, health, and business. Current areas of interest are Mergers & Acquisitions, Affiliations, Risk Management, and other In-House counsel roles.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Ask a lot of questions! I set up multiple phone calls with mentors and Hopkins recruiters to really make sure this was the step I wanted to take. I didn’t have many JD/MBA mentors to gain insight from, which was another reason I knew I should move forward with this dual degree.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
I wouldn’t do anything differently, however, I would advise taking time to figure out what you truly want from your experience here, and not to be dissuaded by naysayers, which I almost was.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Something I would skip, if I could, would be the preparation period for finals week. Not only did we have to manage different time zones for group projects worked on virtually, but along with the stressors of current 2020 adversities and other obligations, I have learned new levels of hard work and endurance. If not for the amazing support of my cohort and team members, it would have been a much more challenging experience.
What is your initial impression of JHU Carey’s students/culture/community?
I love it! There is such a rich and diverse culture here at Carey. I have gained such amazing relationships within my cohort and am so excited with all the knowledge (even in the technical subjects) that I have gained from our admirable and accomplished faculty. It has been a challenge experiencing this transition virtually, but I am so glad to be here and to be a part of this expansive Hopkins network.
One thing you have learned about JHU Carey that has surprised you?
Carey’s global network was something that surely surprised me at first. I did not expect to enter classes virtually with people sitting all around the world. Not many people can say they’ve sat in class that aired in 5 different continents at once. We always start sessions with “Good morning, good afternoon, and good evening..”
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I was most anxious about entering a class with accomplished professionals from various industries, and that I would struggle to find where my expertise lies within the group. As time goes on, you see that everyone has something to contribute in their own unique way which is what makes our diversity so great. We are constantly learning from one another gaining incredible insights from all the different backgrounds.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am excited to gain new experiences. I am still fairly new to the business world, and it differs from the legal world in many ways, but I look forward to taking part in new challenges such as case competitions and attending various MBA conferences. I’m learning more academically and socially, and I can’t wait to see where my network takes me.
