Carmyn Polk, Cornell Johnson MBA Class of 2026
Age: 31
Hometown: Chicago
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Wellesley College, neuroscience
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Clinical researcher, two years; federal health care management consultant, Booz Allen Hamilton, six years
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I had grown significantly in my career, especially within the federal health market, but I realized that to continue making an impact, I needed to upskill, particularly in technology and leadership. After six years in federal consulting, I wanted to transition from management consulting into health tech, particularly FemTech — technology for women’s health and well-being — where I could leverage my expertise to drive real change. The timing felt right because I had supported my husband through business school, become a mother and reached a point where I was ready to invest in my growth. It felt like a “now or never” moment to equip myself with the leadership and entrepreneurial skills needed to launch a company focused on addressing maternal health inequities and supporting mothers throughout their pregnancy journeys.
Why did you choose Cornell Johnson? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
It was the community that drew me to Cornell Johnson. Initially, I selected Johnson because it fit my criteria for the type of school I wanted in terms of size and culture. However, during my interview, I encountered someone whose background was completely different from mine, yet I felt a genuine connection very quickly. It was one of the few interviews that left me feeling excited about getting to know that person more. After that interview, I told my husband, “Wow, that interview felt special!” Attending Destination Johnson solidified my decision. I could see how much the community valued not just me, but also my family. This support system was exactly the environment I needed to grow both personally and professionally.
Furthermore, I was honored to be selected as a Roy H. Park Leadership Fellow, which significantly influenced my decision to choose Johnson. The fellowship aligns with my personal and professional developmental goals, offering the opportunity to engage with like-minded peers who are committed to growing both professionally and interpersonally.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2026?
My most valuable contribution to the Class of 2026 is the unique perspective I bring to the intersection of technology, health care and motherhood. This experience will enrich discussions both inside and outside the classroom. Leveraging my background in health tech, I plan to lead initiatives like organizing a Health Tech Trek to East Africa and connecting Johnson with innovative healthcare startups. I am eager to collaborate with my peers to push the boundaries of health tech, particularly in maternal care, and to create a lasting impact in the industry that extends beyond our time at Johnson.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I take immense pride in being able to recite all the U.S. presidents in chronological order. It’s something I quiz myself on every year, and I’m happy to report that I’ve still got it!
Post-MBA career interests:
Short-term: I plan to become a senior product manager at a technology startup focused on maternal health care. Long-term: My goal is to be the founder and CEO of a startup that uses technology to improve access to health care for mothers and children across the African diaspora.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Building a tight-knit support group of individuals going through the same process was invaluable. Organizations like Forte and MLT (Management Leadership for Tomorrow) helped me forge meaningful connections that became the foundation of my MBA application journey.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would immediately permit myself to access all the resources I needed up front. Whether it was hiring tutors, joining support groups or subscribing to workspaces, I would have allowed myself to utilize these tools from the start rather than waiting until I was in dire need. This could have saved me a lot of time spent preparing inefficiently.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I wouldn’t skip any part of the process because each step taught me something valuable. For example, preparing for the GMAT required me to arrange care for my daughter, marking our first time being apart. This experience stretched me, showing me the importance of showing up for both myself and my family. Although the test preparation was challenging, it offered a crucial lesson: The time spent studying allowed me to cultivate a healthier relationship with my family. I got through the process by leaning on my support system and staying focused on the bigger picture.
What is your initial impression of the Cornell Johnson students/culture/community?
The community at Cornell Johnson has exceeded my expectations. From the moment I stepped on campus, I’ve experienced a deep sense of care and compassion from students, faculty and staff alike. There’s a shared culture of continuous improvement for the greater good, which has positively influenced my mindset. I am particularly grateful to experience the strong community of MBA moms across classes.
What is one thing you have learned about Cornell Johnson that has surprised you?
I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the number of opportunities for structured entrepreneurial exposure, especially collaborations with engineering students and science researchers. The availability of social impact initiatives within the entrepreneurial space has shown me how much the school encourages interdisciplinary innovation.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I’m anxious about balancing my roles as a parent, partner, and student. I want to make the most of this incredible opportunity at Johnson while also ensuring I create meaningful moments with my family. Time management will be critical as I navigate both my academic and personal responsibilities. One of the best things about Johnson is how my family can be involved in most activities on campus!
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m most excited about taking the Business Idea Factory course. It feels like a significant step toward developing the entrepreneurial skills I’ll need to turn my ideas into impactful solutions.
