Danielle Goldich, Manchester AMBS MBA Class of 2024
Age: 30
Hometown: São Paulo, Brazil
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Universidade Presbiteriana Mackenzie, Bachelor of International Business.
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 7 years, Marketing FMCG
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I have about seven years of experience in the fast-moving consumer goods industry in the marketing department. I had the chance to live in 3 different countries before moving to the UK and working in 2 of them. After that experience, I can affirm that being able to work and understand other cultures are essential for my success. An MBA could help me leverage my skills and prepare me for the next steps toward a higher leadership role, enrich my multicultural mindset, and facilitate a career change.
Why did you choose Manchester AMBS? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
The Manchester MBA has several appealing characteristics to me. First, I hold dual citizenship from Brazil and Great Britain thanks to my father, who was born and raised in Manchester and has always spoken highly of the university, besides the fact that I would be comfortable with the city having family around. Secondly, the program has been climbing the rankings, and its approach to real projects and practice-based learning is unique and attractive. Thirdly, I’m looking to settle in Europe after graduating, and holding a prestigious degree from England is a highly desired asset.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2024?
To start with, I’m the only Brazilian in the class of 2024, which makes me proud to represent my country. I lived in Spain before coming to the U.K. because my husband was pursuing his MBA. So I feel that being an MBA partner before made me more prepared to understand the MBA life as a student and help my colleagues with that as well. And my desire to put people together is one of my most significant contributions to the class: even though the MBA is a complex and time-consuming path, you need to have time to enjoy it the most!
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
When I was 16, I was a graduation trip monitor for 14 years-old students. My role was to take care of and entertain them for 5 days.
Post-MBA career interests:
I have an open mind about different sectors since the most important factor to me is job responsibilities. Having a strategic role in the organisation and a leadership position in which I can lead people toward innovative ideas is vital.
I do desire to be an executive in a respectable company. I want to serve as an example of a strong woman who achieved positions usually filled by men while also having a family and balancing her professional and personal life.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Talk to as many people as you can! They will help you to understand if you can feel part of that school and if the school can meet your long-term interest.
What is one thing you would change or do differently?
Starting the application process earlier is a good tip! Being clear about your goals and studying for the exams can help a smoother process.
What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
No doubts: Math exams! They put much pressure on me, and I never felt I was prepared for it. If I had better time management for my studies, it would help me have an easier process.
What is your initial impression of the Manchester AMBS students/culture/community?
AMBS is a very collaborative community. Teachers and staff are always there to talk to you about your good and bad situations and help you through them. We have 27 nationalities with different backgrounds – and believe me or not: this adds a lot to your multicultural mindset!
What is one thing you have learned about Manchester AMBS that has surprised you?
The facilities of Manchester AMBS surprised me! Business School has a new and technological building, but it’s inside a massive Manchester University campus with excellent facilities: restaurants, coffee shops, bookshops, bars and even supermarkets.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Time-management! There is so much going on during the first year that it’s crucial to be organised to keep deadlines on track. My first 3 months were challenging: I was still understanding how to walk inside the building, deal with many assignments, have a real client consultancy project, get to know all the 100 students, and start my internship applications.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Meeting new people is the most exciting part of the first year of the MBA. In a class of 100 people, I need time to get to know everyone and their cultures. The social events are fun, and Manchester has great nightlife!