Vanessa Edokpa, Emory Goizueta MiM Class of 2025
Age: 24
Hometown: Marietta, Georgia (originally Benin City, Nigeria)
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Georgia State University, Bachelors of Science in Psychology
Pre-MiM Work Experience: Content Creator, 4 years; North Point Ministries Lead Preschool Teacher, 3 years
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
My decision to apply for business school came at an unusual time when I was trying to integrate my skills and previous degree with my current interests. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology, skilled in clinical research, and with a resume full of leadership experience. However, I wasn’t gaining traction in becoming a clinical research associate. I decided it was time for a pivot and a redirection; I reflected on feedback from others about what I was good at and the skill set I had developed. As someone who has always been interested in creating, from content building to event planning, the creative and strategic process of storytelling has always been ingrained in me. This ultimately led me to the field of Marketing and Management and to apply for business school to expand my knowledge.
Why did you choose Emory Goizueta? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose Emory Goizueta because I wanted a program that would seamlessly blend my academic background in social sciences with a foundation in business. I sought a place to hone my business and leadership skills to help manage brands. I was drawn to Emory’s intentionality in connecting students to their future career possibilities. The fact that I could attend a highly decorated business school where I already lived and gain those career-enhancing business skills was a prominent factor in my decision to attend Goizueta. Goizueta’s small class size and personalized support from professors and career services were also significant pluses!
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the class?
My most valuable and differentiating contribution to the class would be fostering a culture of community and care. Building connections is an integral part of who I am, as I firmly believe that everyone needs people they can lean on. Through years of event coordination and content creation, I have learned what it means to execute excellent customer service, leaving people satisfied with their experience. For instance, I have a creative brand called ViewsByNes that was recently featured in VoyageATL magazine. My services include content creation, event coordination, and social media management, reflecting my passion for helping others bring their visions to life.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
One fun fact about me is that I am a beauty and lifestyle content creator who believes in romanticizing life and living in gratitude! I strive to put out aesthetically pleasingand entertaining content to connect with and spark the interests of my audience. I also love working with brands to bring their products and services to life through strategic storytelling!
Post-MiM career interests:
Digital Marketing and Brand Management.
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 as part of your application process is to attend a Master in Management Preview Day! I was able to experience what it was like being on Emory’s campus in the business school. A class simulation by Andrea Hershatter, the program’s dean, on venture building showcased a bit of what I would be learning from the program. This experience made me feel more comfortable with the material I would be exposed to and the topics I’d be learning.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
One thing I would do differently is to apply earlier than I did and give myself more time to prepare to step into a new world. Coming from a psychology background to a business degree is quite a switch up and I would encourage myself to have more time to prepare for that switch. The turnaround from my acceptance to admissions was quick, but the programs team and professors have done an excellent job helping us get accustomed to the school!
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—what helped you get through it?
There isn’t a part I would skip in the application process. The admission and program administration team were very intentional about everything they did throughout the process. From campus tours to faculty introductions, subject refresher courses, information sessions, etc., it was a thorough process that made me feel less nervous assimilating into a new school. The program team members were very caring and supportive throughout the whole process.
What is your initial impression of the Emory Goizueta students/culture/community?
My initial impression of Emory Goizueta is that they foster a culture of care. The business world can be cold and daunting, but the community here makes you feel welcomed and valued. The sense of not being alone on your education and career journey from a career coach, to a program coordinator, to some of your fellow cohort members, all invested in your success as part of the Master in Management program in particular.
What is one thing you have learned about Emory Goizueta that has surprised you?
One thing that surprised me was how ethnically diverse Emory Goizueta is. You meet so many different people from across cultures and backgrounds even in the Masters in Management program. As someone who comes from an ethnically diverse background, being Nigerian American, the opportunity to interact with colleagues from different backgrounds and with different viewpoints enriches my approach to leadership.
