Anaida Hasan, Emory Goizueta’s MBA Class of 2025
Age: 26
Hometown: Dhaka, Bangladesh
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Bachelor of Science in Accounting, University of South Florida; Masters in Accounting, University of South Florida
Pre-MBA Work Experience (role, company, years): EY Audit – Wealth & Asset Management – 2 years; Operations Risk and Research – 1 year
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I wanted to attend business school to become an impactful leader with a high degree of empathy, agility, emotional intelligence, tenacity, and persistence. This experience did not only assist me to comprehend the true value of service, academia, research, relationships, philanthropy, integrity, and networking but also it solidified my aspirations of inspiring, motivating, and guiding female individuals to pursue their dreams in the corporate world.
Why did you choose Emory Goizueta Business School? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
A pivotal aspect that drove me towards Goizueta’s MBA program was the Global Experiential Modules (GEM) so that I can have exposure to global experiences. Furthermore, the small class size and the authentic interest of the Goizueta community makes this entire experience truly worthwhile. This allows students to develop long last relationships with fellow classmates and faculty members.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Emory Goizueta Business School Class of 2025?
As a first-generation Bengali passionate about women in business, equality in educational opportunities and cultural diversity, I will work painstakingly to create unconditional inclusivity in the Goizueta community.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I am an introvert turned extrovert. I dropped out from my first public speaking class in high school out of fear and eventually found my utmost affinity to speak in public settings.
Post-MBA career interests:
Corporate Finance and Marketing Strategy
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I will absolutely take the opportunity to connect with Goizueta Ambassadors and members of the admissions team. They have given me meaningful insights about the culture, academics, and student life at Goizueta. If possible, prospective students should attend the Goizueta Welcome Weekend to meet their future classmates and friends.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I honestly would not change any part of this beautiful journey. For potential applicant, I would certainly suggest starting the application process early and preparing well for the standardized tests. Another pivotal factor will be to reflect on yourself and presenting thoughtful essays.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I may have preferred to study less for the GMAT. However, it contributed significantly to hone my critical thinking skills and my ability to work under pressure.
What is your initial impression of the Emory Goizueta students/culture/community?
I would encourage potential applicants to reflect on their motivations to pursue an MBA. There is truly no other program like Goizueta’s MBA program. The community cares about you throughout the entire process and they will treat you nothing less than family. The Goizueta admissions team wants to know who you are, why you are here and your aspirations. Your story matters. Additionally, remind yourself that success is not linear. Hence, smell the roses and appreciate both the ups and downs.
What is one thing you have learned about Emory Goizueta that has surprised you?
I was truly in awe with the close knit Goizueta community, and the importance given to experiential learning in our academic journey. We have Goizueta IMPACT which allows us to learn the inner workings of problem solving and bridge the gap between academic learnings and real-life application by working in an actual client project and solving real life business problems.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
There may be slight anxiousness around managing stellar academic performance in the core semester while simultaneously recruiting for internships for the upcoming summer. The core semester can be a challenging time as there are complex business classes with sufficient academic work. However, the faculty members and the program office at the Goizueta Business School really want you to succeed and will be there to support you in every step of this journey.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am so excited to learn, to grow and to become an impactful leader. I am really looking forward to broadening my horizons in areas of governance and leadership by participating in leadership roles at different clubs and associations at Goizueta.
