Azzy Francis, Texas McCombs MBA Class of 2024
Age: 28
Hometown: Baton Rouge, LA
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Louisiana State University, Chemistry
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 4 years in the nonprofit sector
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I am a classic career switcher. Prior to business school, I worked at an education-focused nonprofit in Dallas, Texas as a data analytics manager. I was in charge of building customized data solutions for my organization and external stakeholders. I considered myself to be an informal product manager as I managed the lifecycle of our Tableau tools as well as the activation and marketing strategies. Given my lack of formalized experience in product and the business knowledge needed to actually achieve my long-term career goals, I realized that I needed an MBA. I knew that the MBA would provide me the formal education and the network to propel me toward my goals and enable a seamless transition into the technology industry.
Why did you choose Texas McCombs? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I was initially drawn to Texas McCombs because of the location and rankings. After further conversations and research, I ultimately chose McCombs as my MBA home for the following reasons: All the experiential learning opportunities, the small but mighty community, and career services and recruitment resources. McCombs offers a plethora of experiential learning opportunities that I was eager to partake in, including McCombs+ projects and fellows programs, both of which would give me the practical experience needed to make a career pivot. Additionally, I knew I would thrive in a small yet extremely collaborative program. McCombs truly has an inclusive, motivating, and welcoming environment that made me feel at home almost immediately. Finally, McCombs is the perfect place to be with an interest in tech. I knew that the career services team had excellent relationships with all of the companies I was interested in. Given all of these factors, McCombs was ultimately the best choice for me.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2024?
I believe I bring a diverse perspective to the classroom coming from the nonprofit sector. I consider being able to weave in quantitative data with qualitative narratives an asset. I have the ability to see the big picture through numbers without losing track of the human component.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I played both the cello and violin growing up.
Post-MBA career interests:
Product marketing/management in tech
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Utilize the alumni network. I reached out to a few McCombs alum before I applied. I was intrigued to understand what could be and where I could potentially end up. The strength of the McCombs network is strong! I left every conversation feeling inspired and energized to pour all my hopes and dreams into my admissions application.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would’ve taken the GRE earlier. I procrastinated and waited until the last minute. I think it made the whole process a lot more stressful than it needed to be. I would encourage applicants to take the test early! Give yourself enough time to mentally move on to the essays and other components so that the application you submit is of quality.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Given my previous answer, I definitely would’ve skipped standardized testing if I could. I’ve never done well with standardized tests. I often get anxiety from these situations, which is why I’d advise applicants to get it out of the way early. Friends, family, and tutors helped me through the process. Don’t go at it alone. Get the resources and tools you need to make it through. The investment is well worth it.
What is your initial impression of the Texas McCombs students/culture/community?
I was extremely impressed by the inclusive culture at McCombs. The students are respectful of each other’s opinions and the community is supportive and helpful. I feel safe to bring my authentic self to the classroom every day. I feel seen and heard, and that makes me super grateful.
What is one thing you have learned about Texas McCombs that has surprised you?
McCombs MBA students not only work extremely hard, but we play hard as well. I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of student-led events meant to facilitate relationship-building and broaden perspectives. We take the time to celebrate differences and culture and we do that in a really intentional way. Whenever there’s occasion for celebration, we’re on it!
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
The fear of missing out is a real feeling in the business school environment. There’s so much that happens in business school. So many amazing opportunities and ways to get involved. But I can’t say yes to everything. I’m learning to let my values guide my efforts and decisions. I’m learning to be more intentional in what I say yes to and how I decide to spend my time.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am most excited for the opportunity to travel. In the upcoming Spring semester, I’ll be taking a Global Connections course. I’m looking forward to traveling with some of my classmates to experience marketing in Italy during spring break!
