Ribah Khan, UNC Kenan-Flagler’s MBA Class of 2026
Age: 28
Hometown: Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Institute: Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India; Major: Bachelors in Architecture
Pre-MBA Work Experience: After earning my architecture degree, I transitioned into marketing within the consumer product goods (CPG) industry, working on large-scale projects that blended creativity with strategy. Over the course of five years, I honed my skills in consumer insights, brand management and digital marketing. My roles allowed me to lead innovative campaigns that significantly boosted brand visibility, especially in emerging markets.
In addition to this, during my experience as a content creator, I’ve worked with some of the world’s most recognized brands, from being a Starbucks influencer brand ambassador in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to collaborating with Coca-Cola on their Mixedtales campaign, providing me with deep insights into digital marketing. This experience paved the way for me to lead a digital marketing agency, where I focused on helping the food and beverage sector improve its digital presence and establish a strong market presence in Saudi Arabia.
I’ve had the unique opportunity to visit Turkey, Greece and Japan at the invitation of their embassies to promote tourism on my platform. These experiences allowed me to dive deep into the culture and share authentic stories with my audience, enhancing my perspective on global travel and content creation.
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
My decision to attend business school is driven by a clear vision for my future. In the short term, I aim to transition into consulting, where I can scale up my expertise in solving complex business challenges. This experience will be instrumental in preparing me for my long-term goal of entrepreneurship, specifically leading a digital marketing agency in the Middle East, a region that is rapidly growing and evolving.
My past experiences have given me invaluable insights and now is the ideal time to broaden my strategic thinking and leadership skills in a structured environment. The MBA will provide me with the essential tools and network to make a significant impact in both consulting and, eventually, my entrepreneurial ventures.
Why did you choose UNC Kenan-Flagler? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
UNC Kenan-Flagler stood out to me for its strong emphasis on integrity, inclusion and innovation— values that resonate deeply with my own. The school’s collaborative culture, combined with its global approach to business education, offered the perfect environment for my growth. During a visit to campus while visiting my husband, who is currently in his second year, I got to experience the community firsthand. The warmth of the people I met left a lasting impression, and I completely fell in love with the environment.
I also came across a video on the internet where students at random were asked what their favorite thing about UNC was, and nearly all of them mentioned that it’s the “people.” That really resonated with me and confirmed that this is where I want to be. Now that I’m here, I’m experiencing all of these factors firsthand and couldn’t be more proud of my decision.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2026?
I believe my most valuable contribution is the creative flair I bring from my diverse background in architecture, marketing and content creation. I’ve spent years blending artistic design with strategic thinking, allowing me to approach problems from both creative and analytical perspectives. Whether it’s designing a marketing campaign or brainstorming a business strategy, I excel at thinking outside the box to find innovative and effective solutions.
As a content creator, my experience working across different industries has honed my ability to connect with audiences and communicate ideas clearly, making me a natural storyteller—whether I’m crafting a digital campaign or pitching an idea in class. Additionally, my entrepreneurial journey has instilled a can-do attitude, where I’m always ready to take the initiative and get things done.
I’m excited to bring this mix of creativity and hands-on experience to the academics and clubs at the school, particularly in marketing and content creation. Beyond that, I’m eager to use all my skills to be a strong leader in managing clubs, hosting events and finding opportunities to bring the community together. Whether it’s organizing engaging activities, fostering collaboration among students, or creating platforms for meaningful connections, I’m committed to contributing to a vibrant and united UNC Kenan-Flagler community.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
A fun fact about me is that I have a passion for exploring street food wherever I travel. Before joining UNC Kenan-Flagler, I spent some time in Turkey, where I indulged in local street delicacies like roasted chestnuts, kebabs and the famous Turkish ice cream. Whether it’s trying out a local delicacy from a hidden food stall in a bustling market or recreating those flavors back home, I love the adventure of discovering new tastes. My love for food also plays a big role in my content creation, where I often highlight unique culinary experiences from around the world.
Post-MBA career interests:
In the short term, I aim to transition into consulting, where I can leverage my diverse background to help businesses solve complex challenges and optimize their strategies. This experience will provide me with the strategic insight and industry exposure necessary to achieve my long-term goal of entrepreneurship. Ultimately, I aspire to lead a digital marketing agency in the Gulf Cooperation Council region, focusing on innovative solutions to help brands enhance their digital presence in a rapidly evolving market.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
One thing I would definitely do again is have a conversation with students and alumni, which gave me insider knowledge that you just can’t find on a website. It helped me get a real feel for the culture and values of school. Plus, it made my essays and interview feel much more genuine because I could confidently explain why I was the perfect fit and how I could make an impact.
What is one thing you would change or do differently?
Looking back, I wish I had allowed myself more time to explore and reflect on my personal story before diving into the application process. I was so focused on perfecting my resume that I didn’t initially give enough attention to understanding what truly drives me and how to best convey that in my essays. Once I took a step back and connected the dots between my experiences and my future goals, everything fell into place more naturally. If I could do it again, I’d spend more time upfront on self-reflection—it really made a difference in how authentic my application felt.
What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
If I could have skipped one part of the process, it would have been the moments of self-doubt that crept in during the application phase. There were times when I questioned whether I was good enough or if my experiences were strong enough to stand out. What helped me get through it was reaching out to mentors and friends who believed in me. Their encouragement reminded me of my accomplishments and the unique perspective I bring. Taking breaks to recharge and focusing on the progress I had already made also helped me push through those challenging moments with a renewed sense of confidence.
What is your initial impression of the UNC Kenan-Flagler students/culture/community?
My initial impression of the UNC Kenan-Flagler students, culture and community is one of remarkable warmth and inclusivity. Even before I joined, I was struck by how welcoming and supportive everyone was. The students were not only eager to share their experiences but also genuinely interested in helping others succeed. This sense of belonging made my decision to join the program even stronger.
Additionally, the energy and excitement surrounding the Blue Cup and the craze for football and all kinds of sports at UNC were so great to see. I also became incredibly excited to participate in the Blue Cup myself. The sense of community extends beyond academics, creating a family-like atmosphere where collaboration and mutual respect are at the core. It’s an environment that I’m thrilled to be a part of, and I’m excited to contribute to this incredible community.
What is one thing you have learned about UNC Kenan-Flagler that has surprised you?
One thing that has truly surprised me about UNC Kenan-Flagler is the overwhelming sense of community and support that extends far beyond academics. From the career labs I’ve visited, where second years are incredibly supportive, to the vibrant diversity clubs, it’s clear that everyone—peers, seniors and faculty alike—is committed to helping each other succeed. What really stands out is the genuine sense of inclusion, especially during the super cool Carolina Casuals at the end of the week. Seeing everyone come together over loads of pizza, with family, friends, and even pets, makes it clear that UNC Kenan-Flagler is more than just a business school; it’s a community where everyone is welcomed and valued.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
One thing I’m most anxious about is managing my time effectively, especially when it comes to balancing academics, networking and recruitment. There’s so much I want to get involved in, and I’m aware of the importance of making the most of every opportunity without spreading myself too thin.
However, my confidence was boosted during orientation when my study group and I were so anxious about our first-ever consulting case—and guess what? We ended up winning it! It was an overwhelming and incredible feeling, all thanks to our mentors and the people who guided us through. This experience reassured me that with the right support and dedication, I can successfully navigate any challenge that comes my way.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
In my first year, I’m most excited about the opportunity to meet new people, network, and contribute to the vibrant array of events at UNC Kenan-Flagler. Already being part of clubs like the Food Club, Carolina Women in Business and Business Technology Club for events, I’m eager to help these organizations grow and thrive. I’m also excited to explore ways to expand the UNC Kenan-Flagler community, whether through introducing podcasts on digital platforms or hosting weekly BBQ luncheons for everyone to connect offline. There’s so much potential for growth and collaboration, and with the incredible support I have received, I’m confident that together we can make a meaningful impact on our community.
