Gabriel T Richardson Carcaño, Minnesota Carlson MBA Class of 2024
Age: 26
Hometown: Mexico City/ Boise, Idaho
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Reed College, BA Political Science/Economics
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 2+ years, Academic Consultant, 1+ years Data Research Analyst
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
Currently, I am also a JD student at the University of Minnesota Law School. Obtaining an MBA at the Carlson School of Management seemed like the next logical step for a career focused on transactional and/or tax law. One of my law professors, Prof. Paul Vaaler, summarized the value of an MBA for legal professionals with the following: the MBA can be a helpful tool for attorneys to navigate complex modern issues, “whether as internal corporate counsel advising business executives, as outside attorneys retained for a specific business transaction or litigation, as state attorneys investigating a business for some public purpose, or as lawyers serving on a directorial board overseeing the governance of a publicly listed firm.”
Why did you choose Carlson? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
The University of Minnesota is a world-class, large research university that attracts many talented educators and professionals. Both the Law School and the Carlson School of Management are well-ranked and highly regarded both nationally and abroad. The Twin Cities metro definitely offers value and the opportunity to interact with multiple Fortune 500 corporations in a stunningly beautiful natural setting along the Mississippi River.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2024?
While I add a legal standpoint, culturally (and even professionally), I bring a Latin American perspective. I am a dual national from Mexico and the United States who has worked in the burgeoning start-up environment in Mexico City. Corresponding with this theme, my undergraduate thesis focused on telecommunications privatization in Brazil, Argentina, and Chile.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I have lived in four countries: Mexico, the United States, France, and the United Kingdom. I have taken my road bike to three different continents: North and South America, as well as Europe (shoutout to Delta Airlines).
Post-MBA career interests:
Compliance/Risk/Tax/Structuring/Corporate Governance
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
While trite, always be honest and transparent about your strengths, and more importantly, your weaknesses. Demonstrate your willingness to address your weaknesses within your personal statement, and clearly demonstrate why the specific program and community can get you to achieve your goals.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
Higher education is an expensive endeavor. I was very fortunate to receive a substantial scholarship, yet I wish I did more research on additional affinity group grants, scholarships, and opportunities. Take advantage of aid programs that align with your values, experience, and background!
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
The administrative part of any application is tiring. Set yourself a reward system with each subsequent task!
What is your initial impression of the Carlson students/culture/community?
Carlson is a tight-knit community of a diverse set of individuals with fascinating backgrounds. Although the majority may not be from Minnesota, Midwest values do make their appearance here—students, faculty, and staff are all hardworking, dedicated, kind, warm, and ‘down-to-earth.’
What is one thing you have learned about Carlson that has surprised you?
Carlson’s students hail from many ‘nontraditional’ backgrounds. Many students are former members of the military, foreign nationals, and/or pursuing an additional degree.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
While I studied economics in college, my math skills are rusty. I am trying to dispel the old adage of lawyers and numbers mixing like oil and water.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Meeting new people and listening to their stories, as well as seeing what I can learn from their experiences!
Has the COVID-19 pandemic affected your personal application or admissions process in any way? If so, how?
COVID forced me to gain more work experience—albeit virtual—before law and business school. This, for me, is the ‘silver lining’ of this unfortunate public health crisis.
