Heath Cockrell, UNC Kenan-Flagler’s MBA Class of 2023
Age: 29
Hometown: New York, NY
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Amherst College
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): Deloitte Consulting and US Global Office, 6 years
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I loved my role and my team at Deloitte, but after six years in consulting I wanted to pursue other opportunities. It was the perfect time to go back to school to build my network, enhance my personal brand and explore other careers.
Why did you choose UNC Kenan-Flagler? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose to attend Kenan-Flagler for its commitment to women in business as well as its emphasis on leadership and teamwork. Both of those things are of great importance to me and will continue to be as I advance my career.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2023?
My continued involvement with Carolina Women in Business is something I take great pride in. I expect to continue supporting the progression of women in the workplace through my internship and professional career after school.
Tell us a fun fact that didn’t get included on your application:
I have never broken a bone!
Post-MBA career interests:
Marketing/brand strategy.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
– What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I would talk to as many current students and alumni as possible – leverage Kenan-Flagler’s vast network and ask tough questions.
– What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would probably have visited (ugh, COVID!) if I could have. In a perfect world, I would tell prospective students to visit camps so that they can experience the campus energy and culture in person.
– What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I was most nervous for my interview since I hadn’t interviewed in a very long time until I was applying to business schools. I tried to think about it as another networking call, and an opportunity to learn more about Kenan-Flagler, rather than focusing on being ‘interviewed’.
What is your initial impression of the UNC Kenan-Flagler students/culture/community?
The community at UNC Kenan-Flagler is accepting, engaging and energetic. The students and faculty is extremely grateful and excited to be back on campus in person, and committed to maintaining a safe and healthy environment.
What is one thing you have learned about UNC Kenan-Flagler that has surprised you?
I am impressed with the intimate dynamics within the classroom and amongst peers/professors. I came from a small undergraduate school, with small class sizes and strong relationships with my professors. I value the small classroom and discussion-based learning style, and I appreciate that Kenan-Flagler models that.
Has the COVID-19 pandemic affected your personal application or admissions process in any way? If so, how?
I think not being able to do in-person visits to campus or mingle with the recruiting team in person was difficult. However, I do think that the school and admissions team did a great job leveraging Zoom and making it feel as close to in person as possible.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Landing an internship! Recruiting is already heating up and the stress is setting in!
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m excited about my involvement in Carolina Women in Business, specifically our annual conference in November that I am helping put on – Stronger Together. Go buy tickets – anyone can come!
