Meet our MBA Ambassadors

Jackson Dick

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City: Charlotte, NC
Company: Bank of America
 
 
Job Function/Industry: Private Bank Associate
Major/Minor: BA International Studies – Florida State University

Why the Wake MBA? I chose the Wake Forest MBA program because it allowed me to continue in my current role with Bank of America, while simultaneously earning my graduate degree. Going to class in person and having the opportunity to interact with my peers was very important to me, so I was very excited when I learned about the WF Charlotte evening program. Wake has a strong alumni network not only in Charlotte, but across the country in all different fields of work. The knowledge I will gain from the Wake Forest MBA program, as well as the network of alumni I have access to during and after my program are the main reasons why I chose to get my MBA from Wake Forest.

What did you gain from your Wake MBA? The Wake Forest MBA program has opened my eyes to various different industries, and has given me a platform to enhance my knowledge and understanding of the broader business landscape. This program has forced me to utilize different ways of thinking, and has given me a new perspective on how to take the lessons and skills I have learned and have an impact not only on my company but my community as well.

Alex Horton

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City: Charlotte, NC
Company: Ally Financial
 
 
 
Job Function/Industry: Agile Management in Data Analytics and AI
Major/Minor: Economics and Environmental Studies – Wesleyan University

Why the Wake MBA? I chose the Wake Forest MBA program because of its great network, flexible programs, and small class sizes. Even before I started at Wake, I was able to experience the kind staff and great community during recruitment events. Since starting this has remained the case, as there are many chances to get network with the class cohort and other Wake Alumni. The numerous programs allowed me to find the perfect one to continue working while pursuing my degree. Lastly the small in-person classes have helped grow my knowledge and business skills each class session.

What did you gain from your Wake MBA? While I have not finished yet, the Wake MBA program has given me the opportunity to learn a wholistic picture about business. The structure of the program including the teams you are on, and the order of the classes are all thought out to better the experience. In addition, I had the opportunity to go on a unique Global Immersion trip offered by the MBA program.

Sam Kriney

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City: Charlotte, NC
Company: Bank of America
 
 
Job Function/Industry: Senior Financial Analyst
Major/Minor: Economics – Clemson University

Why the Wake MBA? I chose the Wake MBA because it allows and supports the continuation of my career while pursing my educational goals. Personally, I learn best in the classroom so the location and instruction method met those needs. I also LOVED that I would be learning from the same amazing professors that those on the main campus in Winston-Salem would receive so I didn’t feel like I would be getting a different experience by being in a satellite location. Last, but certainly not least, the people. Every single faculty member and student I met during the application process truly cared about me and what I wanted to obtain from the program.

What did you gain from your Wake MBA? So far, the Wake MBA has given me an amazing network of individuals that I can rely on throughout my career and even my personal life. My business knowledge and skills have increased which even my managers noticed and I believe this is because the course topics are extremely applicable and relevant to the current environment.

Riley Mumford

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City: Charlotte, NC
 
 
 
 
Job Function/Industry: Finance Manager
Major/Minor: Finance – Clemson University

Why the Wake MBA? One of my college roommates was in the program already. I also liked how how it was in person and in Charlotte.

What did you gain from your Wake MBA? Joining the Wake Forest MBA program has allowed me to interact with people from various other fields that I would not have had exposure to in my current job. This has allowed me to gain a deeper understand of business and how to handle difficult situations.

Ashley Berry

City: Winston-Salem, NC
Company: Inmar Intelligence
 
 
Job Function/Industry: Employee Engagement and Internal Communications Associate
Major/Minor: BA Communications – Wake Forest University

Why the Wake MBA? As a Double Deac, I chose the Wake MBA because of the world class education Wake Forest provides! Additionally, I chose the Wake MBA due to the ability for me to continue to work full time while also earning my MBA. The global immersion opportunities also appealed to me!

What did you gain from the Wake MBA program? I have learned so many skills that are applicable not only at work, but in my personal life. A lot of the technical skills have already impacted me at work by helping me to work more efficiently and making me more of an asset to my team. In just the first semester, I have grown so much.

Greer Bigham

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City: Greensboro, NC
Company: Bank of America Private Bank
 
 
Job Function/Industry: Senior Portfolio Analyst – Finance
Major/Minor: BA Business Administration – UNC Greensboro

Why the Wake MBA? I chose the WFU MBA program because I wanted a highly recognized and highly regarded MBA program where I could also attend in person for the networking opportunities. Wake Forest is known across the country as a top program (#1 part time in NC). I also wanted a program that was centered around working professionals and have other like minded individuals attending as well. WFU provides a strong alumni network as well as a strong career services team that is available during and after the program which was very attractive.

What did you gain from the Wake MBA program? So far in the program, I have gained valuable friendships and the ability to network with those in my co-hort. I’ve also gained recognition within my company and team for being a part of such a prestigious & rigorous program in order to continue along the path to leadership within BofA.

Gerald Black

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City: Winston-Salem, NC
Company: Inmar Intelligence
 
Job Function/Industry: Director, Platform Engineering
Major/Minor: BA Computer Information Systems – High Point University

Why the Wake MBA? The program has a great reputation as a top notch program. My wife, brother-in-law, some friends and many co-workers have done this program either as full-time or part-time and I have seen how the knowledge, tools and skills has helped them in their career since they finished their degree and want the same for the my career. The ability to meet in-person and be local to the campus was another big decision factor for me as I value face-to-face time and feel that it makes for a more enjoyable learning experience.

What did you gain from the Wake MBA program? In the short time as a student, I have gained a different view of business overall vs. what is the traditional view. I have gained some really great tools from some of my classes that I am already implementing with my teams and for myself to help be a better leader and contributor to my organization.

Kaylyn Colinco

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City: Colfax, NC
Company: Brasscraft Manufacturing Company
 
Job Function/Industry: Production Manager
Major/Minor: BA Chemical Engineering – Purdue University – West Lafayette

Why the Wake MBA? I sat in one of the classes in the summer (Marketing with Roger) and I loved the atmosphere of the classes. I liked how the classes were completely in person, in a small cohort. There was so much engagement back and forth with the professor and the students and the ambassador who sat with me in class had a great relationship with her teammates.

What did you gain from the Wake MBA program? I have gained a lot of practical knowledge that I can use in my everyday work life. As a new manager, I find that I can apply what I’ve learned in class the very next day. I am also not from this area so I have made a lot more friends and connections than I would have in my normal day to day activities.

Jacquelyn Marano

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City: Winston-Salem, NC
Company: Mediahub Worldwide
 
Job Function/Industry: Associate Director, Paid Social
Major/Minor: BA Business Information Technology/Marketing Management – Virginia Tech University

Why the Wake MBA? When I started exploring MBA programs, Wake stood out as an incredible school (for both graduate or undergraduate). I knew having any degree from Wake would be valued and respected by any current or future employer. I’ve been living and working in Winston for the last 5 years, so it was perfect that such an incredibly respected and renowned MBA program was in my backyard.

What did you gain from the Wake MBA program? I’m a few weeks into my second semester and I already feel like I’ve learned and experienced so much through this program. I have to highlight the people first. My group and cohort have some incredible people who push me everyday to be outside of my comfort zone and teach me new things. I’ve also gained some great mentors through the program faculty and leadership. The knowledge I’ve gained in these last 6 months is also incredible. I take so many things from the classroom into the office the next day. This has to be one of my absolute favorite aspects of this program; that everything you. learn is so applicable. I could go on and on, but meeting so many amazing people and having a vast knowledge base a few weeks into my second semester are the two to highlight here.

Emily Miner

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City: Winston-Salem, NC
Company: Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina
 
Job Function/Industry: Healthcare Consultant
Major/Minor: BA Health & Exercise Science – Wake Forest University

Why the Wake MBA? I chose Wake for its reputation and lock-step, cohort-style program and the opportunity to further my education on-the-ground in a city that has become home. As an alum, I knew I’d leave with (another) world-class education. The faculty (many of whom are professors of practice)/staff, students, and community are top-notch. Winston is such a fun, easy place to live regardless of what stage of life you’re in!

What did you gain from the Wake MBA program? Although I’m just a semester in, I’ve already acquired new knowledge and skills and have learned how to think differently. I’ve gained an instant network of professional contacts through faculty/staff, classmates, and alum and friends. I also just started a new job and the resources I’ve had access to through MRE were undoubtedly a part of that – Colleen is INCREDIBLE! The program is rigorous but the ability to implement what you learn in class next-day makes the work feel a little less like work, even enjoyable.

Damani Mitchell

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City: Winston-Salem, NC
Company: Manufacturing Engineering
 
Job Function/Industry: Sr. Supervisor
Major/Minor: BA Engineering – Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Why the Wake MBA? I’ve always been driven to frame the world through a business lens, and the high ranked, local program at Wake was very appealing. After attending a recruitment event at wiseman, and speaking with Brittany and Kevin, every concern I would have had was easy put to bed. The school has a name synonymous with business success, and I genuinely felt that this program catered to making working professionals successful. The current and previous cohorts, where I also had friends, also showed the type of students that attended the Wake MBA, and I hoped to be counted amongst them.

What did you gain from the Wake MBA program? I’ve so far gain a new perspective on Business, and its role in society. Every conversation has been an opportunity to apply to work life, or valid examples for strengthening existing roles (how to motivate a team, the value ‘lens’ everyone sees the world through) and quickly how data tells a comprehensive story. I’ve also seen that even within different industries, similar roles face similar constrains, and I’ve been exposed to truly novel experiences from the diverse background of the cohort.

Bo Triplet

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City: Winston-Salem, NC
Company: Sonar Projects
 
Job Function/Industry: Partner/Artist Manager
Major/Minor: BA Public Policy Studies – Duke University

Why the Wake MBA? I wanted to strengthen my relationship with North Carolina and Winston Salem businesses. Have lived and worked in Austin and Los Angeles most of my adult life. Coming back home to Winston and being part of the Wake Forest network helps me find purpose and create an impact in my community.

What did you gain from the Wake MBA program? Since enrolling the Wake Forest MBA program I’ve seen my professional network in North Carolina grow exponentially. The relationships I’ve made in just one term of the program more than validate my decision for enrolling as a student.

Abirami Dandapani

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City: Charlotte, NC
Company: Capco
 
 
Job Function/Industry: Consultant
Major/Minor: Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Administration – Cornell University

Why the Wake MBA? Wake Forest’s hybrid MBA program enabled me to advance my career and explore my academic interests while strengthening my roots in Charlotte. The program seamlessly integrated into my established life here. Charlotte not only became my home but also provided me with a supportive and caring community that embraced me wholeheartedly. Choosing Wake Forest not only fulfills my aspiration to make a significant impact as a service provider but also turn my desire for genuine and meaningful change into a reality. The program’s emphasis on personalized support, coaching, and conducive environment enabled me to apply my unique knowledge and skills at a community level, fostering innovation.

What did you gain from your Wake MBA? The Wake MBA program has equipped me with the knowledge and skills necessary to develop my management and strategic decision-making abilities, both personally and professionally. Through a challenging curriculum and the guidance of talented professors, students, and faculty, I have been pushed to exceed my limits. The program fostered collaboration and thought leadership beyond the classroom, allowing me to engage with my future peers. The faculty’s expertise and real-life scenarios brought to the table have guided me in finding solutions to daily business challenges. With an MBA from Wake Forest, I am well-positioned to pioneer the consulting industry, creating data solutions and leading strategic implementation projects.

Jonathan Graham

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City: Charlotte, NC
Company: Insulating Services, Inc
 
 
 
Job Function/Industry: Business Development
Major/Minor: BSBA Finance – UNC Charlotte

Why the Wake MBA? I wanted to leverage my years of work experience and refine my skills by broadening my core knowledge. I felt that an MBA was the next step for me. I chose the Wake Forest MBA program for several reasons. First of all, I had a close family member complete the program a few years back and I got to see firsthand the benefits that they received during the program. Secondly, other programs in the area consistently compared themselves to Wake Forest as the benchmark for excellence. And finally, the Wake Forest staff did such a good job making me feel welcome and wanted when I applied.

What did you gain from your Wake MBA? Since starting the program, I have made new friends and business connections. Skills that I already had continue to be sharpened and improved such as my public speaking, writing, Excel, and Powerpoint. I have barely scratched the surface of what the program has to offer, but I think the exposure to so many subjects that parallel real world examples has definitely broadened my horizons. At 40 years old, I feel like a kid again and cannot wait to see what I can accomplish once I graduate.

Sarah Jones

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City: Charlotte, NC
Company: Bank of America Global
 
 
Job Function/Industry: Talent Process Consultant
Major/Minor: Business and Enterprise Management – Wake Forest University

Why the Wake MBA? The Wake MBA stood out in its competitive rankings and personable program. Their high-touch method focuses on you throughout your experience. I wanted to obtain my MBA to utilize the tool in career development and becoming a better Human Resources partner.

What did you gain from your Wake MBA? I have learned as much from my classmates as I have from my professors. Each student brings unique experience and perspectives that help tie the course concepts together. Also working with my team has been a great component of the program. We have worked together to complete some fun assignments while learning from and challenging one another.