Emily Storrs, Florida Warrington MBA Class of 2026
Age: 28
Hometown: Orlando, FL
Undergraduate Institution and Major: University of Miami, Marine Science/Biology
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Veterinary Technician, Clearwater Marine Aquarium, four and a half years; Husbandry Assistant, Sea World Orlando, just under one year
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I decided to pursue an MBA to increase my career opportunities. My previous education had been STEM-focused, which provided me with a strong background in data and critical thinking, which I felt would be complemented by the MBA offered at the University of Florida.
I believed it was the right time to head back to school because the years I had spent working full-time added to my real-world knowledge. I had the opportunity to work with many different types of people, but I wanted to continue to grow professionally. An MBA will help me expand the impact I would have on the organizations I choose to work with in the future. Like other members of my cohort, I know the knowledge and experience I will gain through this program will open new doors for me.
Why did you choose UF Warrington? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose UF Warrington because of the small cohort size and its incredible ROI. I am excited to be a part of a program that creates a personalized experience for each student. For me, it was important to be a part of a program where I could form strong personal and professional connections. From just three weeks in the program, I know that the relationships I am forming now with the other MBA candidates will be ones that help us all achieve our academic and professional goals.
It was also valuable for me to choose a program that made sense with our current financial landscape. I wanted a program that was strong academically and offered networking opportunities, but also offered a strong return on investment within the first few years of graduation. Financial stability is incredibly important, and Warrington’s competitive scholarship program was a huge draw for me.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2026?
I am the only member of our cohort whose career started in animal care! I spent about six years working with various institutions as a member of both the animal care and veterinary teams. I loved this experience because I got to work alongside so many passionate and dedicated individuals. They taught me about the fulfillment that comes from working for the good of the animals and the grit it takes to get through the hard days, especially in veterinary medicine. It was working with these amazing team members that led me to pursue a degree and a field that will help me help them!
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
During my undergraduate degree I got to study abroad in the Galápagos Islands. I spent three months living on Isla Isabella and volunteering with their sea turtle conservation program. I got to see a ton of native species while hiking and snorkeling, such as marine iguanas, Galápagos penguins, and flightless cormorants. I would love to travel back one day!
Post-MBA career interests:
After graduation, I would love to find a role where I can combine my ability for working with data and my passion for working with people. The two fields I am currently interested in are human resources and general management.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Apply early! I love to have a plan, and knowing where I was going to go to school early in the process helped me to plan for the transition between full-time employment and student life. It is also super helpful if you are planning on moving for your program.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would speak to more alumni about their experience with their MBA programs. I spent a lot of time looking at information online, but did not think to reach out to people until later in my application process. Speaking with one of the alumni from the Warrington College of Business is what helped me make my decision.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Standardized testing – I don’t think anyone is a fan of taking the GMAT or the GRE, but for many programs they are important parts of the application process. Taking full-length practice tests online helped me get a better understanding of the format and the timing.
What is your initial impression of the Florida Warrington students/culture/community?
It is a tight-knit community! The students are invested in helping each other, both within and between cohorts. I have been so impressed with how willing everyone is to offer advice or assistance. From reviewing each other’s resumes, conducting fake interviews, or studying for classes, there is always someone who is ready and willing to support you.
What is one thing you have learned about Florida Warrington that has surprised you?
I was surprised and excited about how involved the alumni are with the program. We had several alumni speak with us during our orientation about their experiences in the program, and the journeys they took to their current careers. It was great to hear about all their different paths.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I would say I am the most worried about balancing my career pursuits and academic studies. There are so many opportunities offered by Warrington that there are not enough hours in the day to do everything. Choosing which areas to focus on and when is going to be a challenge, but in a good way!
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am excited to explore the opportunities that the Warrington College of Business has to offer, including case competition and career events. We have an event called Case Kickoff this semester which combines all four of the full-time in-person MBA cohorts into one big internal competition. It is going to be a fun way to get to know people in the other program formats and practice our presentation skills.
