Jasmine Harley, UNC Kenan-Flagler’s MBA Class of 2023
Age: 28
Hometown: Columbia, Maryland
Undergraduate Institution and Major: American University, Public Communication
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 5 years, Corporate Communications and < 1 year, Media
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I wanted to develop a set of skills that will make me a highly effective business leader and people manager. I also wanted to pivot into marketing/brand management.
I felt like I had come as far as I could in my career and needed support to achieve my career goals. Mentally, I was ready to take on the challenge of an MBA program and do the self-reflection and necessary work to come out of the program a better person and leader.
Why did you choose UNC Kenan-Flagler? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
After attending Inside Kenan-Flagler Diversity Day in 2019, I knew that I could see myself at the school. The support from the admissions team, faculty, students and alumni made the program feel like the right fit. In addition, it was a very personal experience where I did not feel like just another applicant. I felt that the school valued my background and experiences and how they could potentially add value to the program.
I wanted to go to a school that put a lot of attention in cultivating its culture and living out its values. UNC Kenan-Flagler spoke a lot about its culture and values during Kenan-Flagler Diversity Day.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2023?
I am a very process-oriented leader. While I certainly care about results, I like to focus most of my attention on the process and the steps myself or my team members will take to complete the task or achieve the desired outcome.
Being passionate about the process has been valuable during my team assignments at UNC Kenan-Flagler.
Tell us a fun fact that didn’t get included on your application:
When I was younger, I went through several phases. In one, I was obsessed with country music and during another I dreamed of being a chef and watched The Food Network. The cooking interest stuck with me, and I still enjoy baking. My love for country music isn’t as strong unfortunately.
Post-MBA career interests:
I am interested in marketing/brand management, operations and corporate strategy
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
– What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Reflecting on what I want in my career; strengths and skills I currently have that will help me achieve my career goals; and how an MBA program will help. I was very clear about this in my application.
– What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I wish I gave myself more time to do my applications. I ended up putting a lot of stress on myself because I did not factor in extra days to rest while completing my applications.
– What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I can’t say that I would have skipped any part.
What is your initial impression of the UNC Kenan-Flagler students/culture/community?
My classmates have different strengths and industry expertise that I can learn from. I can learn as much from my classmates as I can in the classroom.
What is one thing you have learned about UNC Kenan-Flagler that has surprised you?
I thought all the professors would be intimidating, but they are all supportive and want you to succeed. They are incredibly smart and experts within their subject areas. However, they aren’t shy of bringing their personality and sense of humor into the classroom, which I appreciate.
Has the COVID-19 pandemic affected your personal application or admissions process in any way? If so, how?
The COVID-19 pandemic created new, unexpected communications challenges for many organizations. Because of this, I was presented with new leadership opportunities at work and was able to share those experiences in my application and interview.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
The quantitative coursework, specifically the exams.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
All the memories I will create with my classmates.
