Emily Johnson, Minnesota Carlson MBA Class of 2026
Age: 28
Hometown: Stillwater, Minnesota
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Whitman College, Psychology
Pre-MBA Work Experience: I’ve been an analyst for the past six years, where I’ve had the opportunity to diversify my experience in non-profit organizations, academia, and for-profit organizations! Marketing Analyst – Be the Match (NMDP); Financial Analyst – 3M; Data Analyst – IPUMS, University of Minnesota; Inventory Analyst – Target; Senior Inventory Operations Analyst – Target
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I am thankful for my undergraduate experience at Whitman for teaching me “how to learn” and skills for critical thinking and communicating. I have found success at my jobs so far, but I noticed that I have a yearning for more knowledge to understand what was driving my colleagues’ business decisions. In my undergraduate experience, I knew I wanted to further my education but I wasn’t sure which discipline. I chose an MBA, specifically a Masters of Science MBA, because I could expand my understanding of what makes successful businesses while building on my expertise in data.
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota Carlson School of Management? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
From a young age, Carlson was a household name for me. My dad went to Carlson to earn his MBA when I was young and I saw how this education changed the trajectory of his success. When I was looking at programs at Target, I noticed many of the leaders I admired received their education at Carlson. When looking beneath the marketing materials and talking with current and former students, I found that the culture of the program aligned with my goals– we are a community-focused program. We are a smaller program, which I believe to be a strength due to the connections we’re able to make. The curriculum is another factor I considered; the most rewarding experiences I’ve had are ones that challenge you and expect excellence with the caveat that there will be support from every angle to ensure you meet those expectations. I’ve found that especially coming from a social science background, I’m being challenged for excellence and have the support needed to succeed!
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2026?
In our classes, we use a methodology of learning that is borrowed from the medical programs on the east campus of “See one, Do one, Teach one.” My driven nature, standard of excellence, and ability to understand material quickly allow me to bolster up the cohort and share and learn with my peers. Further, I’m one of the more outspoken queer women in the program. Through this identity, I bring a holistic and diverse perspective focused on building communities and institutions that will last beyond my two years in the program. I have a sincere, unwavering focus on making the future better for those who come after me.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
During my undergraduate degree, I considered being a sommelier or a choral or orchestral instructor! Thankfully, I can still drink delicious wine and practice conducting when not up to MBA homework or community events!
Post-MBA career interests:
When working at Target, I saw the beginning of the supply chain from procurement to selling to the guest and even reverse logistics! I also worked part-time at REI, where I saw the last mile of the supply chain. These experiences, along with taking courses dedicated to sustainability in the Supply Chain, prompt me to be laser-focused on working in sustainability in operations where I can utilize my ability to synthesize and understand insights from data to others to make the world a better place. Thankfully, sustainability efforts are needed everywhere, and I’m excited to see what opportunities exist for me to make this difference!
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
– What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Throughout the application process, I was “100%” about who I am. When I was looking at schools, I went in with a goal of wanting them to understand me, holistically. I always believe that while the schools are interviewing you, you’re also interviewing the school to make sure it will be a good fit. Two years, of full-time education after leaving academia is an important decision, it’s a relief that I know I chose a program right for me! Further, I was awarded various scholarships and opportunities that I would have otherwise not known about or received. It’s corny, but your mom was right with her advice of: “Just be who you are!”
– What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would thank the people in my life earlier and more often. I have incredible professors and previous managers who went to bat for me to be accepted and prepare me for this opportunity. While I absolutely shared my gratitude, I think it’s important to continue sharing the journey with them. I realized this and called my thesis advisor from Whitman, thanking her and the program for setting me up for success in the MBA program. Keep the people who care about you close!
– What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Like many others, I would have skipped taking the standardized tests. What helped me through it was talking with my family and friends (including “internet friends” on YouTube!) who had taken the exams and learned what went well for them to apply it to my learning style. I also recognized that it’s one data point. If a program decided that I was not capable of success in their program based on my scores, I realized they were probably not looking at my application as holistically as I would want them to. I can thank my family, friends, and partner for holding me accountable to success but also to who I am and how I am more than a number.
– What is your initial impression of the Minnesota Carlson MBA students/culture/community?
My initial impression of the Minnesota Carlson students, culture, and community is impressed and thankful. Early on, I’ve found that I trust and hold the belief that my peers are successful leaders. We care about learning and achieving success, together. When connecting with the second years and alums, I find that this is consistent, which excites me!
What is one thing you have learned about Minnesota Carlson that has surprised you?
Perhaps it’s Carlson, and perhaps it’s the degree itself, but something that I learned that has surprised me is the extent to which an MBA is far more applicable to life than I thought. I see things differently now, whether it’s shopping at Target or reading the news–I’m able to apply a new, critical lens to what is happening around me and I love the feeling of being informed and sharing my knowledge with others!
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
One aspect I was anxious about in my first year was what it would be like to be a student again. I started dipping my toes into learning again in course offerings through my employer, Target. My anxiety has been mostly quelled by being in such a strong and caring community.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m STOKED about all of the opportunities as an MBA at Carlson. I’ve been able to get a peek behind the curtain of firms in the area, and it’s such a fun and rewarding experience to begin to apply what I’m learning in the classroom in real life!
I’m also particularly excited about the electives I’m taking in the spring of 2025; I’m registered for Responsible Supply Chain Management, Environmental Justice in Urban Planning and Public Policy to work toward a sustainable focus as an MBA, Competing in a Data-Driven, Digital Age, and I’m even taking a skiing course with MBA friends to round out my academics.
