Stephanie Smolinski, MIT MBA Class of 2022
Age: 28
Hometown: Auburn, Washington (USA)
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Washington State University, Mechanical Engineering
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 6 years, Aerospace Industry
Why business school? Why now?
I began to seriously consider business school after recognizing the fragility of supply chains across the nation, many of which are dependent on outsourcing. Case and point, news articles praised the Unites States’ ability to produce thousands of masks during the height of the PPE shortage. I remember thinking, “How is that not millions?” I wanted a deeper understanding of this complex issue, but to achieve that, I knew I needed a solid foundation of business acumen and management principles.
Why MIT Sloan? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Several of my former colleagues received their MBA from MIT Sloan. Through my discussions with them I noticed a reoccurring theme, every single alumnus described their experience as “lifechanging.” I began to do some more extensive research into the program, and I had full-body chills after reading the mission statement, mantra, and student testimonials at MIT Sloan (true story)! “At the intersection of business and technology,” never before had something so succinctly resonated with my identity. My decision was made in that moment. I only applied to MIT Sloan. I truly believe it is the only place in the world where one can experience this academic intersection.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2022?
Prior to attending MIT Sloan, I had the privilege of leading both engineering and union-based workforces through a fast-paced production system. These experiences gave me the opportunity to see how diverse backgrounds and cultural experiences need to be valued and embraced in order to achieve success. This real-world experience and inclusive mentality are what I am proud to contribute to the Class of 2022.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I am about 6 feet tall… And I have two miniature dachshund dogs. We are quite the sight walking the streets of Cambridge!
Post-MBA career interests?
I plan to return to the Aerospace Industry after graduating from MIT Sloan. I see so many possibilities within this sector and have a passion for the industry. I want to utilize the skills I develop over the next two years to help keep the flying public safe.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
The application process drove me to dig deep and really articulate my passion. When, in no more than 300 words, I had to thoroughly explain my motivations and intentions I was forced to truly understand myself better. Repeatedly asking myself “why” proved to be an integral part of establishing my core values as pillars of my story. Not only do I believe this successfully translated in my application, but I feel I was able to genuinely and authentically brand myself.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
I wish I would have relaxed during my video introduction! My advice to future applicants is to think critically about how to use that time and convey who you are as an authentic, amazing human being. The video serves as 60 seconds to continue telling your story –take advantage of that. Especially now, in the midst of a global pandemic, let the admissions staff see you in your natural element! They have your GMAT results, resume, and undergrad GPA, so use the video introduction as an opportunity to show them what it is that makes you unique.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I would have skipped asking for letters of recommendation. Personally, it’s difficult for me to ask something of others, especially if I know they are very busy people. However, my husband helped me reframe the situation. He told me that my mentors, as people in positions of power, truly want to help the next generation succeed and that it’s part of their responsibility as leaders. He reminded me that I had selected genuinely caring individuals to learn from and that I shouldn’t correlate asking for help to placing a burden upon them. (He was right – but don’t tell him I said that!)
What is your initial impression of MIT Sloan’s students/culture/community?
Students: My colleagues offer a breadth of experience, both professionally and personally. Throughout my first semester, I teamed up with an independent business owner from Singapore, a CPA, a consultant from Australia, a financial analyst, and an investment banker. While diverse in background, skillset, and origin we are united in our passion to become innovative leaders. It has been a very unique experience and I feel privileged to have already learned so much from my teammates!
Culture: MIT Sloan has not allowed the pandemic to curtail the culture it has cultivated over the years. In order to avoid large gatherings, they took traditional networking and socializing online. Organizing virtual escape rooms, happy hours, and hackathons (just to name a few) embodies the traditional innovative spirit for which MIT is known.
Community: My initial impression was largely formed by how MIT chose to navigate the pandemic. They listened to the student body when we expressed how important an in-person element would be to our MBA experience. Setting up COVID testing policies and procedures in just a few short months and working within state guidelines to keep us safe was certainly not an easy feat, but they did it. For me, the MIT community is unlike any other I have experienced, where the genuine sentiment is that together we can achieve more than any one of us standing alone.
One thing you have learned about MIT Sloan that has surprised you?
I have learned that not only are the professors some of the most brilliant people I have ever met, they are also some of the most caring and conscientious. They integrate ethical conversations into all aspects of the curriculum and really instill how, as future leaders of industry, it is our responsibility to fearlessly make the right decisions. Not only do they expand our technical acumen, but they give us tools to lead with integrity and pose as we progress throughout our careers.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Starting a new chapter of your life is overwhelming. Starting a new chapter of your life during a global pandemic is downright terrifying! The uncertainty of class medium and schedule was nerve-wracking as I entered my first semester. Having said that, I have been nothing short of amazed at how MIT Sloan has persevered to provide us a safe, hybrid (in-person/virtual) semester! It has made all the difference in my MBA experience thus far and I cannot thank the staff, faculty, and my fellow classmates enough for working together to make this a reality.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Simply put – the people! MIT Sloan represents a single, physical location where I believe some of the smartest minds congregate. From world-renowned professors to unbelievably impressive colleagues, every single member of the MIT community adds to the uniqueness and hails from a diverse academic, professional and cultural background.
