Felipe Reyna, Washington Foster’s MBA Class of 2025
Felipe Reyna, Washington Foster’s MBA Class of 2025Age: 34
Hometown: Austin, Texas
Undergraduate Institution and Major: University of Texas at Austin
Pre-MBA Work Experience (role, company, years): Strategic Account Manager, HMS Networks, 4 years
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
Embarking on an MBA at the Foster School of Business was a natural progression in my career, driven by a desire to fuse my Electrical Engineering background with my extensive experience in business development. Recognizing the need for a comprehensive business perspective, I saw the MBA as a means to bridge the gap between my technical expertise and business acumen. The decision was also motivated by a strategic aim to pivot into the tech space, a domain where I believed my unique skill set could make a significant impact. Timing-wise, I felt that my accumulated experience allowed me to bring practical insights to the academic setting, while the present moment presented an opportune window to transition into the rapidly evolving tech industry. In essence, the MBA serves as a catalyst for my career growth and a pathway to contribute meaningfully in the tech sector.
Why did you choose the University of Washington Foster? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
The decision to choose the Foster School of Business was multi-faceted, grounded in its reputation as a top-tier MBA institution and its strategic location in the Pacific Northwest. The school’s high academic caliber was complemented by its close connections with iconic companies in the region, particularly in the tech industry. Being situated in one of the most beautiful parts of the country, added to the appeal.
However, what truly set Foster apart for me was its outstanding career management system, consistently ranked among the best in the country, with a proven track record of facilitating top-tier job placements. This was a crucial factor as I aimed for a seamless transition into a Product Management role within tech giants such as Google, Microsoft, and Amazon. The school’s strong ties to these industry leaders aligned perfectly with my career aspirations, making Foster the ideal choice for me to not only gain a high-quality MBA education, but also to forge meaningful connections and pathways into the tech sector.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2025?
I believe my most valuable contribution to the Class of 2025 lies in my unwavering commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion. Serving as the Diversity Class Representative and aligning myself with esteemed organizations like The Consortium demonstrate my dedication to this cause. Beyond these roles, my passion drives me to actively strive for a class environment that is not only inclusive but also revolves around the core principles of diversity. By fostering this inclusive and diversity-centric space, I aim to create an atmosphere where every class member feels valued, heard, and empowered, enriching our collective MBA experience.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
One interesting tidbit that didn’t make it onto my application is my background in Mexican Regional Mariachi music. Growing up, I was part of a mariachi ensemble, and during high school, we participated in UIL competitions. The culmination of our efforts led us to Nationals, where we proudly clinched the title of National Champions. So, in addition to my MBA pursuits, I can proudly say I hold the distinction of being a National Mariachi Player Champion.
Post-MBA career interests:
Post-MBA, my career aspirations revolve around securing a position in Product Management within a leading Tech giant, particularly focusing on the cloud segment of the business. My objective is to synergize my accumulated industry experience with the newly acquired knowledge from my MBA journey. A central principle of my career vision is to contribute actively to the integration and enhancement of sustainability practices within the realm of cloud technology. By combining my technical expertise with strategic business insights gained during my MBA, I aim to play a pivotal role in driving tech solutions toward a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
One aspect I would wholeheartedly undertake again in my application process is the pre-MBA networking. Immersing myself in the community of my preferred schools not only filled me with excitement but also provided invaluable networking opportunities. Establishing connections with individuals who shared my aspirations during those pre-MBA exploration and networking sessions has proven to be instrumental. Even now, I maintain strong friendships with people I encountered in those pre-MBA journeys, highlighting the enduring value of building connections early in the application process.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
Reflecting on my MBA application journey, one area I would consider changing is the timing of leaving my job. In hindsight, I would have allowed myself more time between the start of the MBA program and my departure from my job. Providing a period for relaxation and downtime before the intensity of the MBA coursework begins would have been beneficial. While the MBA experience is undoubtedly a fulfilling and exciting endeavor, the initial period can be demanding. Allowing myself more time to unwind before diving into the program would have ensured a more balanced and enjoyable transition into the academic rigors of business school.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
If I had the chance to revisit my application process, I would consider skipping applications to schools that didn’t align with my top choices sooner. In hindsight, I’ve come to appreciate the value of a more focused and targeted approach. A shorter, more concentrated list of schools allowed me to channel my efforts and energy more effectively. I firmly believe in the principle of “quality over quantity” in this context. Applying to a more limited but carefully chosen set of schools enabled me to allocate ample time for networking and crafting tailored application essays. This focused strategy not only strengthened the application process but also ensured that I could invest the necessary time and attention into securing admission to my dream MBA program.
What is your initial impression of the Washington Foster students/culture/community?
My initial impression of the Washington Foster community can be summed up in one word: humility. It’s truly a privilege to be surrounded by classmates and faculty who embody such empathy and down-to-earth attitudes. Even with the program’s prestigious global ranking, there’s a remarkable sense of groundedness within the Foster community. The focus remains committed on what truly matters — cultivating a strong sense of community for everyone involved. This humility not only fosters a supportive and enriching environment but also reflects a genuine commitment to the collective well-being and success of the community.
What is one thing you have learned about Washington Foster that has surprised you?
As a Foster student, what has pleasantly surprised me is the warmth and welcoming atmosphere at the university, especially considering the reputation of the “Seattle Freeze” that out-of-state students are often cautioned about. Despite the initial warnings, I’ve discovered a level of hospitality and connection akin to the Southern charm I’m familiar with. The community at Washington Foster has defied expectations, making Seattle feel like a new home where genuine connections and a friendly environment prevail. This unexpected warmth has been a delightful and reassuring aspect of my experience at Foster.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
In navigating my first year of the MBA, a notable source of anxiety stems from the fear of not fully capitalizing on the opportunities presented by the program. The decision to step away from established jobs and routines to pursue an MBA full-time is a substantial commitment. While this commitment opens doors to an array of enriching experiences, including club involvement, networking events, and diverse learning opportunities, there’s a concern about not maximizing these two years to their fullest potential. The anxiety revolves around ensuring that every opportunity for growth, both academically and personally, is seized, and that I emerge from the program as the best possible version of an MBA graduate.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Without a doubt, the aspect that excites me the most in this first year is the relationships I’m forging with my immediate network—my classmates. As I’ve been consistently told, your cohort often evolves into one of the most enduring networks throughout your lifetime, and I’m already beginning to witness this. The prospect of nurturing and growing these relationships is genuinely thrilling, envisioning a future where I am surrounded by a network of successful professionals and amazing individuals. The potential for lifelong connections and the collaborative journey we are embarking on is a source of great excitement and anticipation for me in my first year.
