Teresa Ibarra Arana, Washington University Olin’s MBA Class of 2026
Age: 27 years old
Hometown: Mexico City, Mexico
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Universidad de Navarra, Industrial Management Engineering Pre-MBA Work Experience (role, company, years): Associate consultant, Strategy& – PwC, 2 and a half years
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
My decision to attend business school now stems from a desire to accelerate my career growth and deepen my impact within the consulting field. While I’m passionate about helping my clients, I recognize that a formal business education will equip me with a broader range of strategic and analytical frameworks. This will allow me to deliver even greater value, especially as the business landscape becomes increasingly complex.
Furthermore, business school offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore new areas within the business world. I’ve always been intrigued by marketing, and I’m eager to leverage this experience to either expand my skillset within consulting or potentially transition into a marketing-focused role. The timing feels right because I’m ready to invest in myself and take my career to the next level.
Why did you choose WashU Olin? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
WashU Olin stood out to me for several key reasons. First, the global experience deeply resonated with my enduring passion for exploring the world and bridging cultures. I’ve always been fascinated by experiencing new places, immersing myself in different ways of life, and collaborating with people from diverse backgrounds. My experience working on projects with colleagues from different nationalities and cultures, both as an undergraduate studying abroad and a management consultant, have solidified my belief that cultural understanding is crucial for success in today’s interconnected world. The opportunity to further develop this global mindset by learning about how businesses interact in a global context truly excites me.
Secondly, Olin’s focus on experiential learning, particularly the Practicum Program, is incredibly appealing. I’m eager to apply my consulting skills in a real-world setting and gain exposure to diverse industries through the program. This hands-on experience will be invaluable in honing my consulting skills and preparing me for leadership roles in the future.
Beyond these specific programs, I was also drawn to Olin’s collaborative culture, emphasis on values-based leadership, and small class size that fosters close interaction with faculty and other fellow students. I believe that Olin’s commitment to value-based, data-driven approach to leadership aligns perfectly with my own values and aspirations.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2026?
I believe my most valuable contribution to the Class of 2026 will be my ability to foster collaboration and understanding within our diverse cohort. Having lived and worked in Mexico, Spain, Switzerland, Sweden, Canada and the US, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for different perspectives and approaches to problem-solving. I’m eager to share my experiences and learn from my classmates’ diverse backgrounds, creating a richer learning environment for everyone.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
A fun fact about me is that I’m deeply passionate about flamenco dancing! I was even part of a professional flamenco group for three years.
Post-MBA career interests:
Post-MBA, I’m driven to leverage my strengthened analytical and strategic skillset in a role that allows me to contribute to impactful business decisions. I’m particularly drawn to two paths:
- Returning to Management Consulting: I’m eager to re-enter the consulting world with a refined toolkit and a broader perspective which will enable me to add more value to clients.
- Transitioning to the Tech Industry: The dynamic nature of the tech industry excites me, and I believe my consulting background, coupled with an MBA, will be valuable in strategy, marketing, or growth roles.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Without a doubt, I would absolutely attend Admit Weekend again. It was invaluable to experience Olin’s vibrant community and get a true sense of the program’s culture. Experiencing a sample MBA class and witnessing the collaborative atmosphere firsthand solidified my decision to come to Olin.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
If I could do one thing differently, I would have proactively connected with my future classmates earlier in the application process. While I’ve enjoyed meeting everyone during orientation, I realize the value of building relationships beforehand.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I had a very seamless application process; I was happy to get the GMAT waiver which was a stressful subject for me.
What is your initial impression of the WashU Olin students/culture/community?
My initial impression of WashU Olin is that it truly lives up to its reputation for having a strong sense of community. The smaller, close-knit cohort fosters an environment where everyone feels connected and supported. I’ve been particularly impressed by the genuine interest classmates have in getting to know each other. This sense of community creates a unique learning environment where I feel comfortable sharing ideas, taking risks, and building meaningful relationships.
What is one thing you have learned about WashU Olin that has surprised you?
I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the genuine dedication of the faculty at WashU Olin. While I expected a high level of academic rigor, I didn’t anticipate the extent to which professors are personally invested in our growth, both professionally and personally. This level of support creates a truly enriching learning environment and reinforces my belief that I made the right choice in coming to Olin.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
While I’m excited about the opportunities that lie ahead, I’m also a bit anxious about securing the right internship for next summer. I’m particularly interested in either returning to management consulting or exploring the world of marketing, as it’s a subject I genuinely enjoy and am eager to experience firsthand.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m incredibly excited about the opportunity for global experiences. The opportunity to learn about international businesses and how these interact in a global interconnected world firsthand, while immersing myself in different cultures, is something I’ve been eagerly anticipating.
I’m also thrilled about the prospect of building lasting relationships with my incredibly talented cohort. I believe these connections will be invaluable both personally and professionally throughout my MBA journey and beyond.
