Bonnie Koo, Johns Hopkins Carey MBA Class of 2026
Age: 35
Hometown: UK (with a stint in S.Korea)
Undergraduate Institution and Major: King’s College London, Pharmacy
Pre-MBA Work Experience: 13 years in total, spanning roles such as ICU/Surgical pharmacist, NHS Leadership Darzi Fellow, Global Business Development in Pharma, Business Development in Digital Health
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
Although I’ve gained some business experience and learned on the job, there were times when I felt uncertain due to my lack of formal business training. I wanted to be “spoon-fed” the core theories of business and understand why they have become fundamental in the business world.
Why now? Honestly, it had to be now because I’m entering the mid-career stage (i.e., getting older), and if I’m going to pivot, it’s better now than later.
Why did you choose Johns Hopkins Carey? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
One thing I’ve learned about the business world in the U.S. is the importance of networking. While I was on the West Coast building networks in digital health, I realized I lacked connections in the traditional medical setting on the East Coast. I thought Johns Hopkins would be a great place to start. Also, when discussing the business of health, it can feel lonely, as what applies to other industries may not apply to healthcare; the business of health tends to be highly nuanced and regulated. I wanted to find other students and faculty who would join the conversation, and I believe Johns Hopkins’ MPH/MBA dual degree helps me achieve that goal.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2026?
I bring global health and business experience (from the UK, Korea, and the U.S.) to the Class of 2026 and real-world perspectives. I am very adamant about applying theoretical learnings to practical, real-world scenarios.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
We all know how difficult online dating can be. I’ve heard guys in Seattle complain about the unfavorable male-to-female ratio, leading to very few matches. I also had several instances where I had overlapping profiles with my female friends. That’s when I realized online dating was no longer serving anyone’s purpose. So, I decided to set up an offline dating event by recruiting people from dating apps. The turnout was great, and it was really fun organizing it!
Post-MBA career interests:
I am still exploring different pathways, but I am interested in market access in pharma, venture capital, or consulting.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Talking to alumni. I learned about the various career pathways I could consider by leveraging the degree. Also, attending talk sessions hosted by Johns Hopkins helped me understand the admission processes (and get some admission tips).
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
Maybe I would have done more research about where to live, only because I didn’t expect to love living in Baltimore so much! I was initially concerned about my living situation, but now I’m bragging to others about how great this place is.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Getting recommendation letters. Reaching out to old bosses was mentally hard and, for some reason, a bit embarrassing. I knew I just had to hit the “send” button, but I had to prepare myself for potential rejections. Despite my doom-and-gloom imagination, all my references replied promptly and helped me out immensely. I managed to get all five recommendation letters for the application and felt very grateful.
What is your initial impression of the Johns Hopkins Carey students/culture/community?
There is definitely a strong Johns Hopkins pride in our community, with health as a central theme in our conversations. It’s nice to be surrounded by people who are proud to be where they are.
What is one thing you have learned about Johns Hopkins Carey that has surprised you?
There is a wealth of networking opportunities at Johns Hopkins Carey, especially within the “business of health” space. The network is more extensive than at some well-known business schools.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Figuring out what I want to do and finding a summer internship that truly excites me. I definitely have a bit of FOMO, so I’m eager to see how I prioritize and make the most of my first year.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
The sheer number of opportunities available to you as a student. There is much more flexibility in reaching out to different kinds of people and learning when you’re a student versus when you’re working.
