Kyle Kenser, UNC Kenan-Flagler’s MBA Class of 2026
Age: 27
Hometown: Frederick, South Dakota
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Black Hills State University, Business Administration
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Human Resources Manager, U.S. Army, four years
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
While I greatly enjoyed my time in the U.S. Army as a human resources manager, I found myself reflecting on my career after I left military service. During this reflection, I realized that the most enjoyable part of my experience was leading and developing people. Along with loving the business curriculum in undergrad and having a desire to learn more, I knew that an MBA would give me the best tools for success to carry my leadership abilities outside the Army and be an impactful corporate leader.
Why did you choose UNC Kenan-Flagler? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
During recruiting events, UNC Kenan-Flagler reps always talked about the Tar Heel community and the sense of belonging so many people feel here. With my wife Emy working on her doctorate in occupational therapy at Duke, I wanted a place that would welcome us both with open arms and make our family feel at home. After speaking with alumni and students, it turned out that wasn’t just a recruiting pitch, but a huge facet of the program. Along with that, UNC’s reputation as a prestigious academic institution and huge alumni network is incredibly valuable. It seems that everywhere I have been, I have met Tar Heels in one way or another.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2026?
I think the most valuable contribution to the Class of 2026 is my people skills and ability to work with diverse teams. Generally speaking, I just love talking to people. I love to be able to make connections with everyone I meet and understand their background and experiences. Being in the Army, I met so many people from all different walks of life and learned to work with these unique perspectives towards a common goal.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I received my admissions acceptance call the night before I began the climb of Mt. Kilimanjaro with my wife! While the climb itself was very miserable at times, the excitement of knowing I was going to UNC after helped carry me on.
Post-MBA career interests:
I am looking to enter the healthcare industry and land a leadership development program (LDP) role. The prospect of moving around a company and learning the ins and outs of the different functional areas is very exciting for me.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Devote as much time as I did to studying for the GRE and revising my essays. While you can always reapply next year, you can only make a first impression on a school once. I am a firm believer that if you are going to do something, do it to the best of your ability.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would stress less about acceptance decisions, even though it’s easy to say now after being admitted. Once the application is in, it was out of my hands and there is no use worrying about something you can’t control.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Studying for and taking the GRE for sure. Doing all of the test prep and taking it multiple times was a slog. I made it through by knowing that if I got in, it would all be worth it.
What is your initial impression of the UNC Kenan-Flagler students/culture/community?
Everyone I have met so far has been great. The UNC Kenan-Flagler staff have all been so welcoming and supportive and they made orientation a great experience. The second years have also been super helpful. All of the social events from Carolina Casual to the UNC watch party have been great and it truly feels like a welcoming community.
What is one thing you have learned about UNC Kenan-Flagler that has surprised you?
I was surprised to learn just how awesome the campus is. I was unable to visit campus in person and have learned that pictures and videos don’t do it justice. The campus is beautiful and super pedestrian friendly. I was also excited to learn that the new building expansion will be ready for next year.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I am anxious to balance the time constraints of school, recruiting and becoming a father for the first time in February. However, I know the community here will support me in any way they can.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Besides the obvious excitement of being back in school and the prospects of recruiting for a new career, I am super excited to witness the UNC football and basketball gameday experience.
