Lauren Piot, SMU Cox MBA Class of 2024
Age: 25
Hometown: Dallas, Texas
Undergraduate Institution and Major: The University of Texas at Austin; Bachelor of Arts in Human Dimensions of Organizations, Minor in Business
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 3 years, Human Resources Specialist at Occidental Chemical Corporation (Manufacturing)
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I made the decision to attend business school because I want to pivot careers. I started the program in Fall 2022 because I have 3+ years of professional work experience and it was the perfect time to start my MBA journey. I also am excited to learn new business skills and grow my professional network.
Why did you choose SMU Cox? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose SMU Cox because of the small class sizes, the location in Dallas, and the relationships with companies in the DFW metroplex. Also, SMU’s values align with my personal values and goals.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2024?
I think my background in Human Resources brings a diverse perspective to the MBA program. From my experiences in HR, I have learned and truly believe that a company’s culture is just as important as its profitability. Companies that invest in their employees and foster a positive work environment are companies that are set up for success.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I love to run half marathons and have set the goal to run a full marathon in the next few years!
Post-MBA career interests:
Finance, Business Analytics
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I reached out to current SMU MBA students and Cox alums who provided some great advice as I was going through the application process. They were a tremendous help and made the application process easier and more enjoyable.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would have started writing my essays earlier so that I had more time for mentors and colleagues to review and provide feedback.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
The GMAT! It is time-consuming, but I was able to get through it by creating a study plan and setting goals leading up to the test.
What is your initial impression of the SMU Cox students/culture/community?
The SMU Cox community is a tight-knit group where everyone is supportive and willing to help. It is a very positive and welcoming group, and their main goal is for everyone to succeed.
What is one thing you have learned about SMU Cox that has surprised you?
I am impressed by the alumni base and the strong connections SMU Cox has with companies in the DFW metroplex and beyond. SMU has deep roots in Dallas, and it definitely shows through career connections, events, and more.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I am most anxious about landing an internship for summer 2023 and getting back into the groove of school. I know it is a lot of work, but I keep reminding myself that it is worth it!
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am most excited to learn, create life-long friendships and attend the Global Leadership Program (GLP) trip at the end of my first year. We are going to Vietnam and Singapore, and I couldn’t be more excited!
Has the COVID-19 pandemic affected your personal application or admissions process in any way? If so, how?
The only way the COVID-19 pandemic affected my application/admissions process was that I interviewed virtually, and I wish I had had the opportunity to interview in person and attend more admissions events on campus.
