Emilia Hamilton, Vanderbilt Owen MBA Class of 2024
Age: 28
Hometown: Davis, CA
Undergraduate Institution and Major: UC Davis – Communication
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 5 years United States Marine Corps
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I had reached a point in my military career where it was either stick around for another 15+ years or move on. I decided to move on and pursue personal growth and development. Business school appealed to me because it is a great place to expand horizons, learn across multiple disciplines and meet great people.
Why did you choose Vanderbilt Owen? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Vanderbilt Owen is a well-respected school in a great location. I was looking for a small program where I could get involved with numerous organizations and feel supported. The veteran support network here is fantastic and it’s great to have many fellow veterans in the program. From a family perspective, I have a sister who lives 30 minutes away, and after being gone for 5 years in the military, it’s great to get to be around.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Vanderbilt Owen MBA Class of 2024?
I bring a unique perspective and energy to the class.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I attended 5 different colleges in undergrad. SF State, 3 community colleges, and finished out of UC Davis.
Post-MBA career interests:
Human Resources and 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 people and don’t be afraid to ask questions. The current students are all approachable and will do whatever we can to help you succeed.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would not doubt myself as much in the application process. Everyone has a unique story and a wide range of backgrounds. We all bring important things to the table. 
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
The random question video part was hard for me. Which is bizarre looking back on it now. It’s not a big deal and it’s really to just see a window into the unique person that you are.
What is your initial impression of the Vanderbilt Owen students/culture/community?
It’s the best. I truly feel like part of the team and look forward to coming to class and seeing my classmates every day.
What is one thing you have learned about Vanderbilt Owen that has surprised you? Vanderbilt has great relationships with so many different companies. There is opportunity everywhere.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Landing a sweet internship.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
The extracurricular activities with extraordinary classmates.
Has the COVID-19 pandemic affected your personal application or admissions process in any way? If so, how?
Not really, I weathered the COVID-19 pandemic completely in the military. This is the first year I could have applied.
