Lauren Springer, OSU Fisher’s MBA Class of 2026
Age: 29
Hometown: North Canton, Ohio
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Ohio State University Fisher College of Business with a specialization in Marketing
Pre-MBA Work Experience: I worked in email and app marketing strategy and operations at Abercrombie & Fitch for 6.5 years
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
After graduating from OSU in the summer of 2017, I began my career at Abercrombie & Fitch, where I grew through various roles, primarily focusing on email marketing and operations. While I deeply valued my time at Abercrombie & Fitch and the numerous opportunities I was given, I began to feel that my role had become too specialized and no longer aligned with my goals or the vision I had for my future. Seeking to broaden my business acumen and gain knowledge and experience across a wide range of functions, I decided to pursue an MBA. An MBA at OSU offered me the chance to diversify my skill set, make valuable new connections and open doors to so many opportunities.
Why did you choose Ohio Fisher? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I was really excited about the hands-on aspects of the program and the smaller cohort size. I strongly believe you learn best by dealing with real-world problems that have actual stakes, and OSU offers plenty of those opportunities in and outside of the classroom. Plus, the smaller class size means I can build a tight-knit network with my peers and get to know the faculty and staff on a more personal level.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2026?
What I bring to the OSU MBA program is a strong ability to build meaningful relationships and a deep interest in culture and inclusivity. I value connecting with people from diverse backgrounds and fostering an inclusive environment where different perspectives are embraced and appreciated.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I actually love to play video games and I built my own gaming desktop!
Post-MBA career interests:
I’m passionate about sustainable, local consumerism and the makers markets around Columbus. In the long term, I would love to start my own consulting company dedicated to supporting local businesses and makers markets. In the short term my focus is to gain the broader business knowledge and experience at a consulting firm that would prepare me for starting a business.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
One thing I would absolutely do again would be to meet with a current student before applying. My advice to prospective students is, don’t be afraid to reach out, make connections and ask questions. Doing something like this will help you get a clearer picture of the programs you apply to.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
One piece of advice I’d give is to avoid getting bogged down by every detail of the application process. Instead, focus on being confident in the quality of your work and find peace in knowing you’ve done your best.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
The GMAT was incredibly challenging for me, especially since I hadn’t been involved in school or standardized testing for a long while. What kept me going was knowing that this would really prepare me for homework and exams. Even though it was tough, I kept focused on the benefit in the long run.
What is your initial impression of the OSU Fisher students/culture/community?
It’s been amazing so far. I am lucky to be surrounded by a diverse group of incredibly smart and accomplished individuals. I have been so impressed by the amount of effort put into our curriculum and our pre-term. During pre-term we took part in career and industry discovery, had engaging workshops, insightful speakers, and I felt it really prepared us for the year ahead. Now that we’re diving into the core of the program and starting our internship search, everything is really coming together.
What is one thing you have learned about Ohio Fisher that has surprised you?
What has surprised me the most is the program’s focus on the holistic aspects of business. We’ve already had rounds of mock interviews, career fairs with real employers and opportunities to connect with local alumni in our areas of interest. Beyond the education itself, this skill set and practice is incredibly valuable.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I think what makes me most anxious is the fear of missing out on opportunities. I’m really excited about this chapter of my life and want to make sure I’m doing everything I can to take full advantage of it.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am most excited about the relationships I am forming with my peers. It’s been amazing to meet all these new people and spend time with them. I feel like in the few weeks since school has started, we’ve really turned into a big team, working to help each other improve academically and professionally.
