Alyssa Burlile, Fisher MBA Class of 2022
Age: 34
Hometown: Tiffin, Ohio
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Marshall University – International Affairs & Japanese Language
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): Automotive, Sales/Account Management – 10 years
Why business school? Why now?
Continuous improvement is important to me. I always want to be growing in some way. I felt I had reached a plateau in my career and needed some re-direction.
Why Fisher? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Fisher’s Full-Time MBA program is very hands-on and experiential. There are many opportunities to get involved with the local community and make a real impact. During the application process, everyone I interacted with seemed genuine and kind. This held true after I began the program as well.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2022?
I have more life and work experience than most of my classmates. I developed some wisdom over the years from my failures and successes, and I am willing to share my experiences. I also acknowledge I have plenty to learn from my younger classmates!
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I have never been to an Ohio State football game, and I am really hoping to change that at some point before graduation.
Post-MBA career interests?
Marketing or Brand Management
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I spent a lot of time on my essays, carefully answering the questions, and making sure my motivation and passions were easy to understand. I think this helped my overall application and story as an applicant.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
I would practice more for the video interview! I applied before the pandemic and had no experience interacting with a webcam.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I don’t think I would skip any part of the application process. Every part exists for a reason, and it’s important for the school to understand you as a complete person. This is what makes for a diverse cohort in your program, and it allows for better discussions and growth.
What is your initial impression of Fisher’s students/culture/community?
Our Full-Time MBA cohort is small. We all know each other’s names. We are fortunate to have mostly in-person classes during the autumn semester so far, due to the incredible efforts of the faculty and students to make it happen safely. This is a community that cares about each other.
One thing you have learned about Fisher that has surprised you?
Everyone says this, but it’s true: Fisher is a tight-knit community within a huge public research university. It is still surprising how much personal attention we receive as MBA students.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Going back to school after many years in the workforce is scary, but I am managing and have plenty of support.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am excited about all the opportunities outside of class to give back to the local community.
