Denis Muchiri, Rochester Simon MBA Class of 2024
Age: 26
Hometown: Ruiru, Kenya is my first home, and Gaithersburg, Maryland is my second home
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Penn State – B.S. in Nuclear Engineering; Physics minor
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 4+ years as a nuclear engineer in The US Intelligence Community
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I realized that there were some elements of my personal career growth that were lacking, and an MBA was the best strategic decision to fill those gaps. I am fortunate enough to be a recipient of the Pat Roberts Intelligence Scholars Program, which essentially provides two years of paid time off to pursue my MBA.
Why did you choose Rochester Simon? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
It was straightforward for me! What really sold me were the networking sessions that I had with Simon alumni during UR Admit Weekend. Second, I looked around the room during the evening events organized by Simon, and I felt comfortable and at home—like I could truly enjoy the next two years and make lifelong friends that would eventually come to my wedding one day (if that ever happens!).
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2024?
I have a unique background! I grew up in Central Kenya, and I migrated to the US at age 15. After completing my undergraduate degree in nuclear engineering, I was blessed to land a career in The US Intelligence Community, where I held a clearance only a handful of Americans will ever get to hold. I got to warn some of the highest-ranking US defense officials of our adversaries’ actions that undermined US strategic objectives. As part of Simon’s 2024 cohort, I embody Simon’s mission of inclusivity, community, and forever striving for excellence.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I speak four languages and I moonlight as a DJ in my free time! I am a professional DJ, and prior to Simon, I was spinning in the Washington, D.C. area, Richmond, and Charlottesville. My specialty revolves around bringing South African Amapiano, and Afrobeats from East Africa to West Africa, all the way to dancefloors in the US.
Post-MBA career interests
I am very much interested in venturing into the financial industry services sector.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I’m glad I took the time to speak with current students and alumni during my application process. They provided valuable insight regarding the culture of the school and how to create a strong application. Looking back at it, I would try to re-live UR Admit Weekend. The experience was more of a blind date where I got the opportunity to meet many of my future classmates, who are some of my closest friends now.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
If I could do one thing differently, I would submit my application a bit earlier. My situation was different, but in retrospect, I wish I had begun the process earlier. Nonetheless, I was still able to get into Simon and for that, I am grateful.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I thought the application process was very easy and well streamlined. My interview with the admissions staff felt more conversational since they were getting to know me, and I was getting to know Simon and determining if it would be a good fit. There was also a personalized touch from my admissions representative, prompt response in communication, and frequent check-ins – these were a huge “plus” that helped me get through the process.
What is your initial impression of the Rochester Simon students/culture/community?
It is a buzzing environment surrounded by beautiful architecture and amazing restaurants that I plan to explore during my second year. If you enjoy playing sports like squash, soccer, tennis, etc., I guarantee that you will find these sports communities! I am a big fan of soccer and squash so as soon as I got to campus, I started a WhatsApp group to gauge interest and—before you know it—we have approximately twenty people that meet every Sunday to play! All in all, Simon students are eager to get involved.
What is one thing you have learned about Rochester Simon that has surprised you?
The alumni network and their dedication to giving back truly surprised me. Almost every room and building at Simon are dedicated to past alumni, who have gone on to do amazing things and have given back to the School. Moreover, given that I have moved from a relatively smaller city (Charlottesville, VA), Rochester is decently sized with sufficient restaurants, shopping, and public transportation. The restaurant scene is bustling since we’re in the Finger Lakes region, and I’m taking advantage of Ontario Beach Park more so than I anticipated.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
There is definitely a bit of anxiety with respect to intercollegiate case competitions, but in the coming weeks I will be a part of the team representing Simon at the case competition during the National Black MBA Association Annual Conference in Atlanta. It has been a whirlwind pushing critical thinking skills over the past couple of weeks, alongside my teammates. Additionally, moving to a new city and not having a lot of friends or strong family ties can add to the anxiety – but getting involved and finding niche student groups can alleviate some of that.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am looking forward to getting involved in the Simon Data Analytics Club given its ties with various industry partners. I also look forward to joining the Simon Real Estate Club due to my love for real estate investing—it will be a unique experience and it will allow me to connect with the local Rochester real estate development community.
