Natalie Gonzalez (Johnson, ‘22) decided to get an MBA in order to work at the intersection of business and environmental issues. During her MBA application process, she set her sights on finding a program that had a strong commitment to sustainability, and enrolled at the Cornell University Johnson School of Management. In this interview, Natalie shared her MBA application journey, and her experience as a first-year MBA student.
MBASchooled: What did you do before business school, and why did you choose to pursue an MBA?
Before Cornell Johnson, I was working in the nonprofit sector, first in animal rescue and then in community engagement around the LA River. It was a great time to learn about different roles, but over time I realized I could have a bigger impact by pursuing sustainability in business. I think businesses have a larger environmental impact than communities and that it is possible to help businesses grow while tackling environmental issues.
MBASchooled What was the hardest part of the MBA application process, and how did you work through it?
The hardest part was preparing for the standardized tests while working and also just going about my life with my family and friends. It took a lot of planning and dedication to study on my tight timeline. I was fortunate to budget for a tutor for a month and I also negotiated time at work to study in lieu of personal development seminars.
MBASchooled: What were some of the most important criteria to you in selecting a school?
It was critical that the program have a strong commitment to sustainability and that it was incorporated into the academic curriculum. I also wanted a school that offered an opportunity to work on a real-world project during year 1, before the internship. I knew I was pivoting so I wanted to make sure I would be getting as much experience as possible during my MBA.
MBASchooled: Why did you choose Cornell?
The Sustainable Global Enterprise immersion at Cornell really set it apart from other schools. Not only could I take classes in my area of interest, but I would have a project in the Spring of my first year to tackle a client’s challenge. I also really wanted a school that emphasized collaboration and community. From my interactions with faculty, staff, and students I knew I found the right community for me.
MBASchooled: Most applicants understand why culture is important, and to look for it, but what specifically stood out to you about Cornell?
The extensive support and collaborative environment really stood out. Every aspect of the experience – the academics, recruitment, student organizations – is run so well. Current students were always gracious and willing to talk about their experiences and connect you to others.
MBASchooled: Due to COVID-19, MBA applicants know they need to engage virtually with schools to learn about them but what should they be looking to learn or looking to get out of those opportunities?
The Q&A portion of any virtual engagement is so important. It’s your opportunity to connect with staff and it’s more intimate compared to physically standing in a big circle with other prospective students. A great way to stay connected is to ask to be introduced or for the contact emails of current students who are pursuing similar interests. Also, even though it can take a lot of time to go to these events, I thought it was always worth it. I always walked away with information that helped me understand my own goals and improve my candidacy.
MBASchooled: You are just about to start (have recently started?) your MBA experience. What did you do leading up to starting school this summer? How did you prepare?
I took recommended prep courses in accounting and finance. The first semester goes by so quickly and I wanted to make sure academics would not be too much of a hindrance to recruiting and student clubs. I also rested and enjoyed spending a lot of time with my partner!
MBASchooled: What advice do you have, for students who are considering applying or applying to MBA programs right now?
I suggest that they start studying now and get a game plan set. If you can, schedule your time so that you’ve taken your first test before you start attending all the events during application season. Definitely go to conferences and the school-specific events for prospective students. Networking is an important part of the MBA experience and it truly begins when you’re preparing to apply.