Olivia Ahearn, Carnegie Mellon Tepper MBA Class of 2026
Age: 27
Hometown: Plymouth, MI
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Grand Valley State University, Finance
Pre-MBA Work Experience: 2021 – 2024: Finance and Enterprise Performance Senior Consultant, Deloitte Consulting; 2019 – 2021: Finance Leadership Development Program (FLDP), Stellantis (previously Fiat Chrysler Automobiles)
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
Given both my bachelor’s degree and all my work experience are in the corporate finance function, I knew I eventually wanted to come back to business school to gain deeper holistic knowledge of how businesses operate end to end. As I’ve explored consulting over the past 3 years, this vision changed to be focused on learning how businesses can improve their customer experience. Business school is the perfect place for me to get knowledge of the business fundamentals while simultaneously having the flexibility to dive deeper into my specific business focus.
Why did you choose Carnegie Mellon Tepper? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
When I started my business school search, I was immediately impressed by the Tepper School’s Accelerate Leadership Center. I felt that this resource would be extremely helpful in my goal of improving my executive presence and mapping out my journey to the C-Suite. Throughout the interview process and during Welcome Weekend, my opinion on the Accelerate Leadership Center was solidified; there is no place like it! Advisors can help pinpoint areas of improvement, set goals and customize action plans. Even since arriving on campus, they’ve already made a huge difference in my leadership style.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the CMU Tepper Class of 2026?
The Tepper School’s Class of 2026 is so intelligent and impressive. I’m honored to be a part of such a diverse set of perspectives. As someone who has experience in Consulting and who has completed a Leadership Development Program I’m excited to share my experiences with classmates who are pursuing those paths.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your CMU Tepper Class of 2026 application:
My favorite thing to do is travel to new countries! Last year I traveled to 7 countries and the next place I’d like to go is South Africa!
Post-MBA career interests:
Marketing or Consulting
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Throughout the application process, I got a ton of advice from current students, recent graduates, and even people that did not go back to school to pursue an MBA. I’m glad I got their perspectives, and it certainly guided me through the bulk of the process, but I’m happy that I ultimately kept my goal as the North Star. It’s easy to get lost in the noise of other people’s experiences, but no one will know what the best fit is for you besides you! I’m happy I trusted my gut.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
If I could go back, I would’ve gone to visit schools on campus sooner in the application process. Some schools that I loved on paper didn’t have the right feel for me on campus.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Studying for the GMAT was a challenge for me. It was difficult to find time to review practice problems since I was working a demanding full-time job. I’m profoundly thankful for my support system, mainly my partner and my mom, for stepping in to help me while I studied. I wouldn’t be here without them!
What is your initial impression of the Carnegie Mellon Tepper students/culture/community?
The culture and community at the Tepper School is welcoming, supportive and cheerful. The MBA students are filled with laughter, drive, and knowledge that they use to help one another. I’ve also been really impressed with how well the Tepper School engages student’s partners in the program. It was helpful to me to know that my husband would have a support system in Pittsburgh!
What is one thing you have learned about Carnegie Mellon Tepper that has surprised you?
The staff at the Tepper School are some of the most friendly and thoughtful people. I was surprised that they go above and beyond to learn all our names and bring in special treats during stressful times.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
After not being in school for the last 6 years, I’m nervous about the class work. Being a student can bring out feelings of perfectionism for me, so I’m proactively monitoring this and learning to give myself grace.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m looking forward to expanding my network of driven, intelligent professionals! I was surprised with how quickly I’ve bonded with other MBA students at the Tepper School and other top programs. Building relationships will surely be a highlight of my MBA experience!
