Dominique Mosbly, Fisher MBA Class of 2022
Age: 29
Hometown: Richmond, VA
Undergraduate Institution and Major: The Ohio State University, BA International Studies
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): Six (6) years U.S. Army
Why business school? Why now?
As a Veteran, Business School provides a natural opportunity to execute a career pivot from service back into the civilian sector. I was at an inflection point in my military career where I could transition and leverage my substantive leadership experience while also having a prior framework to learn business principles.
Why Fisher? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Fisher provided numerous differentiators that distinguished its program from others in regard to my MBA decision. First, its reputable brand provides me with confidence as I transition from the military and seek to demonstrate to future organizations that, in addition to my military background, I also have business skills. The Fisher brand validates my business competencies.
Secondly, the class/program size appealed to me as I wanted to matriculate to a program that was small enough for me to be well known by classmates, professors, and program staff. Fisher MBA is small enough for students to receive personal attention but is housed within a larger institution that provides inexhaustible resources.
Lastly, Fisher’s flexible curriculum and dual-degree opportunities credibly distinguished its program from others. As someone with a diverse array of interests, Fisher allows me to select my coursework based on my own academic and career goals in addition to taking courses outside of the School of Business. Its dual-degree opportunities are unparalleled and diverse, providing the intellectually curious ample opportunity to combine disciplines.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2022?
I’m a great hype-man! I do an effective job of supporting, encouraging, and recognizing others to reinforce their confidence. The MBA experience can be tough, so having someone audibly cheering you on is beneficial to navigate the experience.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I’m actually a novice writer and have been working on a historical fiction novel over the past 9 months. It’s based on the Mexican American War and covers a range of topics including identity, politics, and love.
Post-MBA career interests?
I am a dual-degree, MBA/Master of Environmental and Natural Resources student with a focus on renewable energy systems. Post-MBA, I aspire to transition into the renewable energy industry.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Start early! I began the research and networking process in the spring prior to fall applications opening in order to best prioritize which schools I was truly interested in. Reaching out to current and former students at your target schools can truly give you a better sense of what the culture is like, unique aspects of the program, what companies recruit on-campus, and the industries in which most graduates matriculate. Starting the entire process early gives you ample time to conduct thorough research, put your best foot forward on the applications, and hopefully provide you with an early decision!
–One thing you would change or do differently?
Although I started the networking process early concerning MBA programs, I did not do the same for prospective companies. In retrospect, I would have started developing relationships with recruiters and individuals at prospective companies prior to enrolling in the MBA program to get a better sense of what companies have to offer. Retrieving so much information prior to the recruitment season would have allowed the information to be better digested and analyzed. Once MBA recruitment begins, in addition to coursework, it becomes much more difficult to contemplate and explore different opportunities.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
The GRE! Studying for the GRE can be a grueling process, especially when you have been out of the formal academic world for a bit. I set a schedule for myself in order to get through the material and made sure to stick to it.
What is your initial impression of Fisher’s students/culture/community?
My initial impression is that there is a high level of intellectual curiosity and commitment to service among the Fisher community. Nearly all students want to be challenged intellectually, learn from others, think cross-disciplinary, and incorporate coursework from outside of Fisher and into other departments at The Ohio State University. The lens by which the Fisher community views business is holistic. In addition, Fisher students absolutely love service! We all come from diverse backgrounds, but a common theme among us is a commitment to and passion for service. There are numerous volunteering and service projects that are readily available and quickly assumed by students.
One thing you have learned about Fisher that has surprised you?
Fisher maintains a very active mentor-mentee program that pairs current students with alumni interested in developing and maintaining a relationship throughout the program. This experience provides participating students with a unique support system, sounding board, and network to navigate the MBA experience. Fisher alumni truly invest in their alma mater and actively seek to help current students.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I’m most anxious about navigating the career landscape due to the numerous opportunities available to Fisher MBAs. As I transition back into the civilian workforce, the number of career opportunities can be overwhelming as a diverse set of companies recognize and value the Fisher brand. It’s important to trust your personal reflection and, while remaining open to all possibilities, commit to pursuing career paths that you truly want.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m most excited about participating in business case competitions. Throughout my military career, I’ve enjoyed and excelled in high-leverage moments. The pressure of case competitions provides an opportunity to demonstrate quick learning, information prioritization, time management, and composure.
