Jama San Pedro, Manchester AMBS MBA Class of 2025
Age: 31
Hometown: Makati, The Philippines
Undergraduate Institution and Major: B.S. Management, Minor in Financial Management from Ateneo de Manila University
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Asian Development Bank (ADB); Financial Analyst, Agribusiness; development finance; 2020 – 2022; China Bank Capital Corporation; Deal Officer; investment banking; 2020 – 2022; China Banking Corporation; Credit Underwriter; corporate banking and credit risk; 2017 – 2020; Standard Chartered Bank; Credit Analyst; corporate banking and credit risk; 2014-2017
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
Business school has always been part of my plans, but it has always been deferred. I attended business school because of the following:
- Working with a multilateral development bank makes me more competitive during the MBA application process and post-MBA opportunities;
- I felt that international organizations highly value experience obtained abroad and with established foreign institutions. As such, the MBA would help me put my foot in the door and gain quality experience in international financial institutions; and
- I’m in my early 30’s. Before priorities shift and while I still have momentum to push boundaries, I want to complete my MBA and work outside of The Philippines.
Why did you choose Alliance Manchester Business School? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose AMBS because of the learning-by-doing experience. I got to where I am today by learning on the job and doing my job well and not by excelling academically or mastering theoretical concepts. During my application process, AMBS students and staff were the most accommodating and provided comprehensive answers to my questions. One student even offered a video call and gave me helpful advice. Further, AMBS awarded me a scholarship. Lastly, despite being one of the top MBA programmes in the UK, AMBS was the only MBA school that I applied to which gave a GMAT waiver.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2025?
Having 10 years of extensive experience across corporate banking, credit risk, investment banking and development finance, I can provide a perspective on banking from both a local and international perspective. Leveraging my experience with ADB, I can share my insights on development finance, particularly gender, climate, corporate governance and environmental and social, which are relevant elements of sustainable financing in mature financial markets such as the UK.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
Not a fun fact. I was identified for redundancy in my first organization. I realized at an early stage of my career the business side of the corporate world. Nonetheless, it taught me to be resilient, focus on what I can control, be professional and to always think what is best for myself. I have the prove other people wrong mentality and I always go back to that experience to remind myself to be better.
Post-MBA career interests:
I want to continue my work in development finance or in impact investing. If opportunities do not materialize in that sector, I am open to opportunities in corporate banking, investment banking or credit risk.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Research. It is critical to do early research on the schools you want to go to. Attend coffee chats, in-person briefings, or virtual meetings. Aside from this, reach out to current students, alumni or friends who have attended your target B-school. Doing all of these would help you make an informed decision on the school(s) you want to apply to.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
Apply and prepare documents early. There is no best time to apply. Once you feel confident, submit your application and complete all the requirements. With limited slots (including scholarships), later rounds are more competitive. By applying and ultimately receiving offers early, you can focus on other things such as family, friends and work as you prepare to embark on your MBA journey.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
MAT (Manchester Admission Test). AMBS gave me a GMAT waiver; however, I still had to take the MAT. I would’ve wanted to do away with the academic assessments or aptitude tests as there are other ways to assess a potential candidate’s capabilities to keep up with the requirements of an MBA programme. That said, whether it’s an internal or third-party assessment, you need to prepare and brush up on things you learned from university.
What is your initial impression of the AMBS students/culture/community?
It provides a safe space to grow and discover yourself. My cohort has been very supportive. There have been many opportunities to network, learn about each other and push your limits. Further, AMBS academics and staff will provide you the tools to become future leaders, managers, entrepreneurs and C-suite executives in the future.
What is one thing you have learned about AMBS that has surprised you?
Learning by doing. The teaching method in AMBS allows you to have a free hand on how to approach the individual and group assignments. While the academics will provide lectures, share suggested textbooks for reading and equip you with the relevant tools, it is up to you to make the most out of the learning experience. This will be supplemented by learning from your classmates, who are experts and knowledgeable in their respective fields.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Time management. It is critical to prioritize and manage time. You will be working with different people and groups, going back to school after a long time out of university, looking for internships and keeping yourself safe and healthy. Learn to say no and to say yes. You will only go through this journey once. Know what you want and allocate time for academics, socials, networking and looking for internships.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Group projects. In a class of 113 students, there are plenty of opportunities to work with your classmates and learn about different industries. While the AMBS program delivery team will be assigning the group members for the subjects, you have the choice to create your own groups in competitions. Aside from this, sports activities organized by the class would also give you the opportunity to compete and engage with your friends and colleagues.
