Jordan Williams, Fisher MBA Class of 2022
Age: 29
Hometown: Indianapolis, IN
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Purdue University, Major: Business Management
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): I have spent five years at Cardinal Health within the healthcare industry. The first two and half years were as a Senior Analyst supporting Ambulatory Surgery Centers and Physician Offices performing competitive cross-analysis and new business bids. The latter two and a half were as a Strategic Sourcing Advisor on the Medical Distribution side of the business negotiating distribution agreements with medical suppliers.
Why business school? Why now?
Pursuing my MBA has been a goal of mine since high school, so it was never a question of “why business school” but “when.” I was approaching a point in my career where I felt that if I wanted to continue to progress at a fast pace and move into higher roles, an MBA would beneficial.
The main decision point I was trying to decide on was whether to go full-time or online. By having conversations with some of my mentors and peers, they conveyed the advantages that a full-time experience would bring. From that point on, I started doing my research on programs and here I am.
Why Fisher? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
When I began my search for MBA programs, there were three key things I took into account for MBA programs: structure of the program, specific disciplines, and culture. The Fisher curriculum’s ability to integrate lectures from different classes on a weekly basis caught my attention as a differentiator that would enhance my learning experience. Also, I knew going in I wanted to focus on Supply Chain and Fisher was highly regarded in this discipline. Lastly, the various events that I participated in leading up to my decision gave me an inviting, communal feeling amongst the students that were already in the program. Taking all of these factors into account, I knew Fisher was the right place for me.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2022?
It would have to be my inquisitive mindset. I feel there can be times where you step into a situation and only be given surface-level details. By wanting to understand more and asking those probing questions, it allows me to better understand the issue at hand and provide a more tailored solution.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I have visited 15 countries over the past five years (and hope to add to that once things return to normal).
Post-MBA career interests?
Long term I am focusing on a career path in Supply Chain and Sourcing but want to explore opportunities in Corporate Strategy and Risk Management
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Attend the program focused events. While the format has most likely changed due to COVID, these were very helpful in my decision-making process as I was able to interact with faculty and students and get first-hand accounts of the programs.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
Mark on my calendar all the various deadlines in the application process. Even though I felt like I started with plenty of leeway, those dates come up fast. I would definitely suggest creating reminders so that you never lose track of what needs to get completed and by when.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
The GMAT. It was my least favorite part of the entire process. What helped me get through it was creating a timeline for myself. I made sure to create a study schedule where I would block out specific time periods throughout the week to study and completely remove all distractions. I would spend a week on one section, then on to the next, and repeated this for about 3 months before taking the exam.
What is your initial impression of Fisher’s students/culture/community?
I have truly appreciated how supportive everyone has been from day one. The welcoming nature of the community has really made the transition an easy one. No matter who it might be there is always someone willing to extend a hand.
One thing you have learned about Fisher that has surprised you?
Fisher has been a great place to connect and network. Even though the College of Business prides itself in being a small, intimate group, the massive network that The Ohio State University lends is such a great benefit.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Making the adjustment from being a working professional to a full-time student. I feel like it has been forever since I had to open a textbook. Getting back into the routine of studying, managing my class schedule, and engaging in extracurriculars will be things I need to get in order early in the process.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am excited to meet and interact with my cohort during my first year. There are so many bright individuals coming into the program from various industries and I’m looking forward to the thought-provoking conversations.
