Sean Lakey, Washington Foster’s MBA Class of 2025
Sean Lakey, Washington Foster’s MBA Class of 2025Age: 27
Hometown: Woodinville, Washington
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Foster School of Business, University of Washington. Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing and Entrepreneurship
Pre-MBA Work Experience (role, company, years): Advertising Agency background working in Account Services roles at two different Seattle Ad Agencies: Senior Account Executive, 2 years, Hey; Account Executive, 2 years, Hey; Account Coordinator, 1.5 years, GreenRubino
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I decided to pursue an MBA education to broaden my business knowledge and perspective by learning from other professionals outside of my current industry. After working in advertising for over five years, I was excited about the idea of contributing to, but also growing from Foster’s very diverse collection of backgrounds from all around the world – including lawyers, engineers, veterans, accountants, entrepreneurs, data scientists, and many more.
Why did you choose the University of Washington Foster? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I attended the Foster School of Business for my undergraduate degree, so I knew firsthand the high level of education the school had to offer. I was excited to return, especially as someone born and raised in the area. Being surrounded by many of the world’s best companies, plus the unique natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest, made my decision ultimately quite easy.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2025?
I bring to the program not only a strong background in marketing and advertising but also client relations. Many MBA graduates will move into client-facing roles, and I think my perspective in this area brings a lot to the classroom.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
Before starting the program, I spent about a month traveling with my partner to 12 National & State Parks – camping most every night. I love animals, and I was able to see a moose, a grizzly bear with cubs, a black bear, bison, elk, deer, antelope, big horn sheep, bats, snakes, lizards, super cool birds, and much more!
Post-MBA career interests:
Right now, I’m planning to move into a strategy-level position – either focused on marketing or general corporate strategy. I hope to be in a creative-centered business – such as media/entertainment or tech/gaming.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process? Although it was a lot of work and effort, I would again absolutely spend the time I did to improve my standardized test score.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently? As I am now in the process of interviewing for summer internships, knowing what I do now about interview prep, I probably would have put more time, thought and practice into my work experience stories for the MBA interview process.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Probably taking the standardized entrance exam. But I gave myself a lot of time to study and practice, which I think made a big difference in not only the outcome, but my stress level as well.
What is your initial impression of the Washington Foster students/culture/community?
Even though I am a returning Foster Student, the comradery, inclusivity, and level of intellect among my MBA class are truly special and have kept me inspired every day so far.
What is one thing you have learned about Washington Foster that has surprised you?
How intentionally small the MBA class is and, as a result, how close we all are. Everyone here was carefully selected to ensure we have the best community of learners possible.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Doing well on the quantitive exams. My quant skills are something I purposely wanted to strengthen during my MBA.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Building lasting relationships with my classmates and faculty.
