Ivan Guerrero, Emory Goizueta’s MBA Class of 2023
Age: 30
Hometown: Matanzas, Cuba
Undergraduate Institution and Major: University of South Florida; Chemical Engineering
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 5, Mining; 1.5, Construction
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
Given my engineering background, I felt an MBA would enable me to gain a holistic understanding of the business world and accelerate my development into becoming a business leader. I was looking to pivot my career and business school provided the most opportunities to do so.
Why did you choose Emory Goizueta? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
The small class size. I have learned that I perform at my best when my work has an impact on the people around me (classmates and professors). Location and class diversity were two factors that made a big difference for me.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2023?
My curiosity for meeting people and inclusive nature. I enjoy getting to know people and bringing groups together.
Tell us a fun fact that didn’t get included on your application:
My family moved a lot while I was growing up. Between third and tenth grade, I attended ten different schools.
Post-MBA career interests:
Strategy/Management Consulting
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
– What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Reach out to admissions, current students, and alums to gain insights about the program.
– What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would do in-person visits of campuses and attend live classes.
– What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
The GMAT! Identifying a target score, setting up a realistic study schedule, and using resources that matched my learning style was crucial in getting through the process.
What is your initial impression of the Emory Goizueta students/culture/community?
It lives up to its promise to deliver an intimate learning environment. I feel very close to my classmates and professors.
What is one thing you have learned about Emory Goizueta that has surprised you?
The responsiveness of the alumni network. Setting up coffee chats to learn about their experiences and the companies they work for has been incredibly pain-free.
Has the COVID-19 pandemic affected your personal application or admissions process in any way? If so, how?It affected the way I connected with the program through the application process. Events and interviews were virtual, so it made it harder to fully connect with others during the process.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Recruiting! With so many impressive companies to join post MBA, finding the “right one” can feel overwhelming at times.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Building a strong business foundation through the curriculum’s core classes. Understanding the basics will enable me to understand more advanced concepts down the line that will change the course of my career and understanding of the world.
