Bri Urukalo, Florida Warrington MBA Class of 2026
Age: 24
Hometown: Austin, Texas
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Southwestern University – B.A. Kinesiology/Political Science
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Client Services (1.5y) at Northwestern Mutual, Recruitment (1y) at Northwestern Mutual, Non-profit Project Management (1.5y) at Connecting Conversations Creatively
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I decided to attend business school to facilitate a career pivot. Having no business education or experience, I felt I had noticeable knowledge and network gaps. I aim to fill those gaps and hone my skills to accelerate my pathway to leadership and management.
Why did you choose UF Warrington? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I knew UF was the perfect fit for me immediately following my interview (weeks before I received my admissions decision)! While other programs I interviewed with focused on my past achievements, Warrington’s admissions team was more interested in who I am and aspire to be. I valued their recognition of my potential and personability instead of just my accomplishments.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2026?
I believe my diverse academic background is my most valuable contribution. It’s uncommon to combine a health science & social science background, but the skillset I acquired through both disciplines has given me a unique framework through which I approach challenges.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I’m an avid baker, and love trying new recipes. I’m currently learning to make the perfect loaf of bread!
Post-MBA career interests:
Human Resource Management/General Management/Onboarding & Training
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I workshopped a list of questions that I asked every school I interviewed for. I made a note of each answer (and how they answered the question!), which made comparing and contrasting programs a quick and straightforward process. I would highly encourage applicants to take detailed notes. Any information could be helpful or even your deciding factor between programs!
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
If I could go back, I would apply earlier. I’m a huge planner, so the turnaround time between admissions interviews, acceptance, planning my cross-country move, and finding an apartment felt super quick. Having a couple extra months to prepare and plan would have benefitted me!
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
This is a common frustration, but I would have loved to skip the standardized testing. I don’t necessarily think that preparing for the GRE was the most productive use of my time ahead of starting this program, nor do I feel that standardized tests are necessarily indicative of academic or business acumen.
What is your initial impression of the Florida Warrington students/culture/community?
Our group of 31 is relatively small compared to other leading public programs. After completing orientation, we had already formed strong bonds. UF did a fantastic job choosing cohort members with diverse backgrounds and unique strengths. We each contribute something valuable. Our community is genuinely one of a kind, and I feel so lucky to be a part of it!
What is one thing you have learned about Florida Warrington that has surprised you?
I did not anticipate the level of programming that our Business Career Services office puts on. They truly go above and beyond to give us opportunities to practice the skills they teach us. The whole program is highly collaborative.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I was recently elected as the Cohort Representative for my class, which entails being the bridge between my peers and the program directors. This achievement is incredibly exciting but also brings a significant responsibility since my classmates rely on me to voice their concerns. I am deeply honored to convey their needs and challenges to the administration, but the pressure is certainly there!
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m so excited by the opportunities that UF has afforded me. While the simultaneous course load and internship search is a bit overwhelming, it’s also a privilege to feel surrounded by opportunity! I can’t wait to see where my peers and I end up; this truly marks the start of a new chapter for all of us.
