Spencer Nousain, UMD Smith MBA Class of 2026
Age: 30
Hometown: Concord, MI
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Central Michigan, Computer Science
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Database Administrator, Software Developer, Project Manager. All roles were with Consumers Energy.
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I decided to attend business school to pivot my career into IT consulting and product management, areas that align with my long-term professional interests. After several years of gaining experience in the industry, I recognized that having a deeper understanding of strategy, leadership, and business operations was essential to accelerate my career and achieve my goals. The timing felt right because I had reached a point where I wanted to transition to roles with more strategic decision-making and a broader scope of impact. An MBA provides the structured learning and network I need to successfully make this pivot while also preparing me for leadership positions.
Why did you choose UMD Smith? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose UMD Smith because of its strong reputation in the Washington, DC area, its focus on technology and innovation, and the collaborative culture that aligns with my values. The proximity to the tech and consulting sectors in the DC metro area is a major advantage for my career aspirations. Additionally, Smith’s network, especially in industries that interest me, offers access to alumni and professionals that can provide valuable mentorship and career opportunities. The school’s emphasis on experiential learning and practical application also stood out, as I believe this will give me the hands-on experience I need to confidently step into a leadership role.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2026?
My most valuable contribution to the Class of 2026 is my unique blend of technical expertise and a passion for strategic thinking. Having worked in tech, I bring a strong understanding of how to bridge the gap between technical teams and business objectives. This allows me to provide a practical, real-world perspective on how technology can drive innovation and growth in various industries. Additionally, my experience with cross-functional collaboration and managing projects in fast-paced environments has equipped me with the ability to navigate complex challenges and offer solutions that benefit the entire team.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I grew up in a family of nine, which definitely taught me how to be resourceful, adaptable, and a strong communicator! Whether it was negotiating for the last slice of pizza or finding creative ways to have quiet study time, being part of such a large family helped me develop strong interpersonal skills and a love for collaboration. These experiences have shaped how I approach teamwork and problem-solving in both my personal and professional life.
Post-MBA career interests:
After completing my MBA, I plan to pursue a career in IT consulting or as a product manager in the technology industry. These roles align with my passion for technology and my desire to work in strategy and business operations. I’m particularly interested in working with companies in the metro DC area, where the intersection of technology, government, and consulting presents unique opportunities to drive impactful innovations. My goal is to leverage my MBA to develop leadership skills that will allow me to manage cross-functional teams and deliver technology-driven solutions.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
One thing I would absolutely do again is to spend extra time researching and networking with current students and alumni. Talking to people who had firsthand experience with the program gave me invaluable insights into the school’s culture, strengths, and opportunities. These conversations helped me confirm that UMD Smith was the right fit for my career goals and personal values.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
If I could change one thing, I would have spent more time reflecting on my career goals earlier in the process. Although I had a clear direction, taking more time to think deeply about where I wanted my MBA to take me and how to articulate that vision could have made my application even stronger. Being more deliberate in connecting my past experiences with my future aspirations would have added extra clarity to my narrative.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
If I could skip any part, it would have been the countless rounds of essay editing! While it was a necessary part of the process, it was tedious at times. What helped me get through it was reminding myself that each revision was sharpening my narrative and making me stand out as a candidate. Having a trusted friend or mentor review my essays for fresh perspectives also made a big difference.
What is your initial impression of the UMD Smith MBA students/culture/community?
My initial impression of UMD Smith is that it’s a close-knit and collaborative community. Everyone I’ve met so far, from fellow students to faculty, has been welcoming and genuinely interested in helping each other succeed. There’s a strong sense of camaraderie, and it’s clear that Smith fosters an environment where students are encouraged to support one another, both inside and outside the classroom.
What is one thing you have learned about UMD Smith that has surprised you?
One thing that surprised me about UMD Smith is how focused the program is on experiential learning. I knew Smith emphasized practical application, but I was pleasantly surprised by the number of hands-on opportunities available, such as consulting projects and internships that are integrated into the curriculum. The program’s commitment to real-world learning has already made me feel more prepared to transition into my post-MBA career.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I’m most anxious about balancing the rigorous academic workload with networking and extracurricular activities. I know the first year of an MBA can be intense, and I want to make sure I stay on top of my studies while also making time to build relationships and take advantage of career opportunities. Finding the right balance will be key.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m most excited about diving into the collaborative projects with my classmates. Working with a diverse group of talented individuals from various industries is a unique opportunity to learn new perspectives and challenge my own thinking. I’m especially eager to take on real-world business problems through the experiential learning components and see how we can innovate together as a team.
