After serving as an Operations Director in the Financial Services Industry, Je’nique Harewood (UNC Kenan-Flagler, ‘21) chose to pursue an MBA to switch to a career in Brand Management. Harewood chose UNC Kenan-Flagler for the people, and the resources that would help her achieve her post-MBA goals. In this interview, Harewood shares why she chose UNC Kenan-Flagler, the resources and opportunities that are helping her switcher careers.
MBASchooled: What did you do before business school, and why did you choose to come to business school?
I was an Operations Director at Morgan Stanley Private Wealth Management for 6 years prior to business school. My role allowed me to work on product management for financial products and exposed me to some elements of brand management which I really enjoyed. I began doing research to understand what a career in brand management entailed and decided that I needed to attend business school to gain those skills.
MBASchooled: What were your big questions coming into making your decision on which school to attend?
As a career switcher, I wanted to ensure that I chose a school that supported my post-mba goals. I particularly looked at the stats of the schools that focused heavily on brand management, including the companies that recruited at the school, graduation rates and the caliber of alumni in that field. I was also very focused on ensuring I was at an institution where I felt supported and fit in. I knew that I would be spending a lot of time with my classmates and wanted to be in an environment where I could be myself 100% of the time.
MBASchooled: Why did you choose to attend UNC Kenan-Flagler?
As I mentioned, fit was very important for me spending two years of my life learning. I wanted to be in an environment where I was not afraid to ask questions or felt as though I had to constantly compete in the classroom. Being a career switcher, I needed and wanted to learn new skills, develop relationships and grow professionally in a nurturing environment without immense pressure. UNC was absolutely the place for me to do that.
MBASchooled: What about the culture and classmates stood out to you about UNC?
Everyone was very friendly and welcoming. People were genuinely interested in knowing who you were as an individual and not so much about what you did prior to business school.
MBASchooled: How has UNC helped you work toward your own career goals and aspirations?
Even while in business school, sometimes your interests change or you may need clarity around a particular job or industry. I still had a lot of questions around my career goals and found my career coach helpful in navigating this. My coach focused on asking me very specific questions about my objectives and in turn provided guidance on interests that aligned and connected me with alumni. That was incredibly helpful during my internship search as I was able to form relationships with people at the companies I wanted to potentially work for.
MBASchooled: What parts or aspects of the academic experience attracted you to UNC?
The professors hands down. I was absolutely taken aback at how invested our professors are in making sure that we get the most out of learning experience. UNC is also a research university and I knew that it would present unique learning experiences to be at the forefront of research as a student alongside professors. I saw it as a good compliment to my MBA and differentiator from other programs.
MBASchooled: What were some of the best aspects of UNC, outside of the classroom?
My classmates. The diverse experiences of my classmates provide learning opportunities even outside the classroom which has enhanced my time as a student here. UNC’s campus is also in a beautiful town, surrounded by history, nature trails and parks. It makes for a wonderful place to explore whenever you need a break from the classroom.
MBASchooled: What’s something you wish you knew before starting your MBA experience?
You don’t have to say yes to everything! Business school presents a plethora of opportunities to join student groups, serve in leadership positions and try new things. However, it is important to not get overwhelmed and feel immense pressure to participate in everything. During my first few weeks, I felt that I shouldn’t pass up anything and signed up for so many activities and roles. However, I got overwhelmed. I started evaluating what activities I was truly passionate about and would gain the most from. Time management is critical to surviving business school. Absolutely be open to different opportunities but be sure to fine tune and focus on the opportunities that develop your skill set and support your goals.
MBASchooled: What has been your favorite moment or experience during your first year of business school?
Completing the first module of business school. It is obviously a whirlwind for the first 7 weeks and it culminates with five final exams in succession. For those 7 weeks, you’ve been studying with your classmates until 3am in the morning and helping each other out when things get tough. I vividly remember walking out after the last exam, breathing a sigh of relief that it was over. My classmates were high-fiving and hugging each other, ecstatic that we all survived the experience. It was a magical moment because here we were, a few months ago mere strangers and now all bonded over this experience that we shared together and supported each other throughout.
MBASchooled: What advice do you have for those who are evaluating where they want to attend business school?
Figure out what your passion is and where your personality fits in the best. While the curriculum may be similar, it is important to understand if that school will help you attain your post-MBA goals in a particular industry or company. Ensuring that the appropriate recruiting partnerships and alumni network is available for what you are pursuing are key things to ask up front when evaluating. You should also evaluate if the school culture will allow you to be your authentic self. You will be spending two years with your classmates and faculty, so making sure you feel welcomed and supported is part of ensuring that you have a well rounded and enjoyable experience. Business school is also supposed to be FUN and you want to be in a place where you grow not only professionally but as an individual and have the best two years of your life.
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