Texas McCombs MBA Insider

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Photo of Emi FitzGerald, Executive MBA '23 with text that reads "Unlocking the Power of Community: The Executive MBA Experience"

Unlocking the Power of Community: The Texas McCombs Executive MBA Experience

April 26, 2024 / / Comments Off on Unlocking the Power of Community: The Texas McCombs Executive MBA Experience

Pursuing an MBA is more than just gaining a degree; it’s about the relationships you build, the experiences you share, and the community you become a part of. At Texas McCombs, our Executive MBA program offers not only top-tier education but also a supportive and collaborative culture. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or an up-and-coming leader, you’ll find yourself surrounded by individuals who are not only eager to share their knowledge but also genuinely invested in your success. Here, competition takes a back seat to cooperation as students come together to tackle real-world challenges and opportunities.

Collaborative Culture 

One of the defining characteristics of our Executive MBA program is its collaborative nature, unlike traditional MBA programs that may foster competition. Our students come from diverse professional backgrounds and industries, and they bring with them a wealth of knowledge and experience. Instead of competing against one another, our students work together, leveraging each other’s strengths to achieve mutual success. Whether it’s tackling group projects, participating in case studies, or engaging in classroom discussions, our students thrive in an environment where collaboration is not only encouraged but celebrated.

Emi FitzGerald headshotEmiko FitzGerald, Executive MBA Class of 2023, made strong connections while at McCombs. Recognized as one of Poets & Quants’ Best & Brightest in 2023, Emi actively contributed to the graduate community as the Communications Chair for Graduate Women in Business, while also serving on the McCombs Ambassador Committee. Additionally, she excelled as a McCombs+ Leadership Fellow and engaged in a high-impact Go-To-Market Consulting Project with Stripe. Emi’s dedication extended beyond campus as she served as a mentor in the Global Sports Mentoring Program.

“One of the main reasons I chose the McCombs Executive MBA program was for the diverse cohort in geography, backgrounds and networking. It is as advertised and my professional network is exponentially stronger because of it. In the Executive MBA program, students come from different backgrounds and different strengths.Those stronger in finance helped those who didn’t have as much experience in finance classes (like me). But when it came time for marketing classes, I could tap into my strengths and experiences to help students with less familiarity in the subject. Everyone helped each other become stronger in the subject matter rather than compete.” 

Supportive Environment

Another key aspect of the Texas McCombs Executive MBA experience is the unwavering support provided by our faculty, staff, and fellow students. From day one, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a community of individuals who are invested in your success. Whether it’s offering mentorship, providing resources, or simply lending an empathetic ear, our community is here to support you every step of the way. No matter the challenges you may face, you can count on your Texas McCombs family to have your back.

Emi and her Executive MBA classmates for the Executive MBA Women’s Empowerment Summit.

Emi (center) and her classmates and co-organizers of the first Women’s Empowerment Summit for Executive MBA.

A group of women in my cohort wanted to do more for our Graduate Women in Business chapter and celebration of International Women’s Day. The program staff worked alongside us to create a GWiB Women’s Empowerment Summit by helping us secure rooms, drum up publicity, bring speakers to campus and partner with other McCombs departments. They recognized the important role of women in business and were creative in their resources and time to support us. It was a defining moment for me in my McCombs journey!

Lifelong Friendships

Perhaps one of the most rewarding aspects of the Executive MBA journey is the lifelong friendships you’ll forge along the way. As you navigate through the program together, sharing triumphs and overcoming obstacles, you’ll develop bonds that extend far beyond the classroom. These connections aren’t just limited to your time in the program; they continue to grow and flourish long after graduation. Whether you’re celebrating career milestones, seeking advice, or simply catching up over coffee, your Texas McCombs classmates will always be there, ready to support and uplift you.

In the year since graduation, I’ve kept up with a number of colleagues through family meet ups, rounds of golf, discussions about new business ideas and phone calls. One colleague was recently promoted and building out his marketing department, so another marketing-focused classmate and I have been a sounding board for him. We are cheering each other on from various corners of society.

Emi and some of her classmates

Emi and some of her classmates from the Executive MBA Class of 2023 and 2024.

An Added Bonus

While pursuing your Executive MBA at Texas McCombs, you’re not just investing in your education and career advancement; you’re also gaining access to a vibrant and supportive community that will enrich your life in countless ways. From collaborative projects to lifelong friendships, the value of our community extends far beyond the confines of the classroom. So if you’re considering taking the next step in your career, why not choose a program that not only offers academic excellence but also fosters a culture of collaboration, support, and lifelong connections? Join us at Texas McCombs, where your success is our top priority, and where the power of community is truly transformative.

Visit Texas McCombs MBA to learn more about our programs and upcoming events or take a peek into student life on Instagram. For any inquiries, don’t hesitate to reach out to the MBA Admissions Team. We look forward to connecting with you on your journey to success.

Hook ‘Em!

Student Spotlight: Marion Krueger, Evening MBA ’25

April 16, 2024 / / 2 Comments

This post is written by Noah Graham. 

The pursuit of higher education can often present a challenge when balancing work, life, and school. However, for working professionals seeking to advance their careers, the Texas McCombs Working Professional programs provide students the opportunity to elevate their expertise while maintaining momentum in their careers.

Marion Krueger is an ambitious entrepreneur enhancing her career through the Texas McCombs Evening MBA program. Marion, or “MK,”  is in the early stages of founding a new beverage company in Austin–Early Bird Hard Lemonade, a bold venture in the beverage industry.

Marion Krueger, Evening MBA '25 poses in front of colorful houses lining a lake.

MK chose to seek a part-time program primarily because of the flexibility of the program. She had about five years of work experience when she realized she wanted to pursue her MBA to gain leadership skills and grow in her career.

“Being five years out of college when I started the program, I found myself at an important developmental point in my career, and I didn’t want to take two full years off and sacrifice the professional growth that could have been achieved in that time. A part-time program allows students to simultaneously advance our careers while furthering our education, setting us up for even greater success after graduating.”

Marion describes her schedule as a weekly game of Tetris as she juggles her time between the Evening MBA program, her company, her life outside of work and school, and herself. She leans on her husband, a first-year law student at the University of Texas, for support. As grad students, they not only attend football games together but can empathize with each other’s experiences and provide valuable encouragement.

 

At McCombs, MK also found a close-knit support system through her study group and overall cohort. When the program starts students are placed into study groups, each of whom brings different backgrounds and strengths to the group. This collaborative environment enhances the learning experience and expands personal and professional networks.

“My favorite thing about the study groups is the ability to get to know a small group of classmates very well. I made two of my closest friends in the program through my first study group and then after about six months, we switched to new groups of four or five. I have been so impressed by the diversity of my classmates’ strengths and skillsets, as well as the extent to which we can lean on and trust one another for support.”

Despite the whirlwind of commitments, Marion is also involved with numerous organizations on campus including – Graduate Women in Business, McCombs Ambassador Committee, CleanTech Group, Graduate Marketing Network, and plays in the UT intermural pickleball league. 

“I heard one of my classmates articulate this best, and it really stuck with me. Everyone is juggling a lot of commitments at the same time, whether it’s work, school, family, volunteering, personal wellness, or a number of other things, but when you’re spending time on something, give that activity, whatever it may be, 100%.”

MK emphasizes the importance of being present and focused while managing different responsibilities.

“If you’re in class, be paying attention – don’t be simultaneously trying to answer work emails, shop for someone’s wedding gift, or be on social media. If you’re spending time with friends, don’t constantly feel bad that you’re not studying or doing homework.

Balancing work, school, and life in general is not an easy feat, but this mindset of giving 100% of your mental energy to the task at hand has really helped me use my time more effectively and be happier as a result.”

Marion sits outside of a Texas McCombs sign in thr front of our building. The sign reads "The University of Texas at Austin: McCombs School of Business - Robert B. Rowling Hall"

Marion said the best thing about the Evening MBA program is being able to integrate learnings from the classroom into the workplace. She has the opportunity to explore new fields as well as a deeper dive into familiar ones. 

“My favorite class so far has been Marketing Management. In part, because my pre-MBA background was in marketing, so I already had an interest in the subject. I also really enjoyed the way our professor juxtaposed quantitative and qualitative approaches to marketing topics.

For example, we discussed the concept of customer lifetime value, explored it in a case study, and learned how to calculate it mathematically. This resulted in a very well-rounded understanding of marketing fundamentals.”

To anyone who is thinking about applying to Texas McCombs, MK’s advice to any applicant is – “Don’t wait!”

Life has a funny way of throwing wrenches in people’s plans – sometimes for the worse and sometimes for the better. You’re likely thinking about applying or have already applied. If you get the chance to begin pursuing your MBA, take it!”

Visit Texas McCombs MBA to learn more about our programs and upcoming events or take a peek into student life on Instagram. For any inquiries, don’t hesitate to reach out to the MBA Admissions Team. We look forward to connecting with you on your journey to success.

Hook ‘Em!

Picture of a man at a desk in a wheelchair smiling at a laptop in his lap. Text reads - Applying in Round 4 - Submit Today, Start Classes in August

Why It’s OK (and sometimes
better) to Submit Your MBA Application in the Final Round

May 1, 2023 / / Comments Off on Why It’s OK (and sometimes
better) to Submit Your MBA Application in the Final Round

This MBA Insider content comes from Christie Jenkins, Senior Recruiting and Admissions Officer for the Evening MBA Program.

Let’s start with a game of two truths and a lie! Can you spot the lie among the statements below?

  • Texas McCombs is always seeking the most qualified candidates for its MBA programs.
  • The Admissions Committee reviews applications holistically, considering a candidate’s academic performance, work experience, program fit, and a variety of other hard and soft skills.
  • Candidates must apply early to have the best chance at admission.

The first two statements are true. We are looking for the best people we can find, and we review a candidate’s academic profile, work history, and how a Texas McCombs MBA can help them achieve their goals.

The last statement is a myth – and it’s one of the most common misconceptions about applying to our MBA programs.

We are not simply trying to fill the next incoming class as soon as possible; we want to ensure that we have the strongest and most dynamic class we can get. Therefore, we have the same rigorous admissions standards regardless of when you apply. Often, some of our best students apply in the final round!

Depending on the format of the MBA program you are pursuing, either as a Full-Time student or in our Working Professional or Executive MBA programs, your preparation process will likely differ.

Full-Time MBA applicants are choosing to leave the workforce for two years and often relocate to a new city. These steps require advanced planning, and usually, applicants have been working towards them for months. However, there are a variety of valid reasons an applicant may wait until the final round to apply to a Full-Time MBA program. Perhaps there have been unexpected changes to your work or living situation, and suddenly, now would be the ideal time to make a move. Or, you just wrapped up a big project, and you can finally focus on submitting a top-notch application. Or maybe, you’ve only recently come to the realization that pursuing an MBA is the best next step forward to reach your goals.

Working Professional and Executive MBA candidates, who are planning to earn their MBA while continuing to work full-time, typically have a different set of considerations. Of course, you will still notify your employer of your intent to start an MBA, but you can tell them a bit later in the application process. Those conversations will center on your growth plan with your company and if they can offer schedule flexibility or financial sponsorship. You’ll also want to gain support from friends and family, and set expectations with them on how you will manage your time with your new priorities. Because Working Professional and Executive MBA students can continue working and living in the same area, they tend to apply later.

Often, it’s not clear that the time is right to pursue your MBA until later in the application cycle, and candidates don’t want to wait a year before getting started. Sometimes an application can be even stronger when you wait to submit until after you’ve landed a promotion, closed that latest deal, or had more time to prepare. The Admissions Committee recognizes this dynamic. When you’re ready to apply, we’re ready for you.

Bottom line: The best time to submit your application is when you feel ready to do so and you’re confident it will be the best representation of you and your potential in the program.

button that reads "Start or Submit Your MBA Application"

Ready to get started on your MBA journey? Visit Texas McCombs MBA to learn more about our programs, application components, deadlines, and upcoming events, or take a peek into student life on Instagram. Please reach out to the MBA Admissions Team with any questions.

Executive MBA New York City Immersion: Changing for the Best

January 10, 2022 / / Comments Off on Executive MBA New York City Immersion: Changing for the Best

Each semester the Executive MBA program hosts an off-campus, Immersion class weekend, to provide opportunities for in-depth experiential learning. The first Executive MBA Immersion took place in New York City in November 2021, and the remaining Immersions for the EMBA Class of 2023 are currently planned for Dallas, Washington DC, and the Austin-area Hill Country. Each is linked to course content and includes executive/company visits, alumni networking, cultural experiences, and time to network and bond with classmates. Immersions provide real-time, real-place exposure, and direct application to what Executive MBA students are learning in the classroom. Read more about the Executive MBA Immersions here.

The MBA Insider content below comes from Lexy Scheen, EMBA ’23. She writes about her experience during the inaugural Executive MBA Immersion weekend in New York City.

One definition of immersion is “deep mental involvement.” There really is no better description of the 3-days our Executive MBA cohort spent together in New York City.

The learning theme of the weekend was “Leading Planned Change.” Fitting, as I believe my classmates will agree that we have all changed so much in the three short months we’ve been together.

A jam-packed first day began with a Veteran’s Day celebration. We honored the four veterans in our group and visited The Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum Complex.

students standing in front of the Intrepid ship

A change simulation took place Thursday afternoon. Led by Dr. Luis Martins, our study groups had spirited discussions around best practices for implementing company transitions. We ended the day with the privilege of meeting and hearing from an incredible panel of top corporate executives across many industries. Many of our speakers were former longhorns and were in our Executive MBA shoes not too many years prior. They are proof that hard work, dedication, and being just crazy enough to go back to school while balancing full-time careers, and families pays off in the end.

Students working at a table

Executive MBA students work in teams to compete in a change management simulation hosted by Professor Luis Martins as part of their Leading People and Organizations course, held during their first immersive experience in New York City at the American Management Association, Thurs Nov 11th.

Despite many Executive MBA ’23 songbirds karaoke-ing until the wee hours, the group rallied for the portion of the agenda we likely dreaded the most; improv class. But, as with most things in life we stress over, improv class turned out to be a huge hit and a major topic of discussion for the remainder of the weekend. It reminded us of the art of listening, which came in handy as our speaker series continued into Friday afternoon. Professor Steve Limberg brought financial reporting to life through discussions with Blue Apron and Moody’s.

students in a circle with their hands in the air

Executive MBA students developing communication skills while engaging in Improv for Business Leaders during their Executive Seminar course, led by Professor Angie McDermott and co-led by the Executive MBA Career Management Team Sarita Soldz and Alma Moore.

Saturday morning, we turned to a conversation with Paul Levy. Levy’s impressive transformation of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center is a case we have been studying all semester. The access to such a profound list of leaders is a tribute to the dedication of the McCombs faculty who are ingrained in these experiences with us.

TK

Executive MBA students after speaking with distinguished guest Paul Levy hosted at UTNY Campus as part of their Leading People and Organizations course led by Professor Luis Martins on Saturday, Nov 13th.

Early in the year, we learned from Professor Angie McDermott that, “what got us here won’t get us there.” This immersion drove that point home. To be effective and engaging leaders, we must be honest, transparent, and collaborative. Luckily, it’s become clear those three attributes are stamped into the DNA of this amazing group of individuals. In three short months, we’ve helped each other through business problems and trusted each other with very personal conversations. We’ve enjoyed the social side just as much as the classroom through dinners, happy hours, and Broadway show nights. This is a special group. Everyone has a seat at each other’s table.

I am honored to be part of the EMBA ’23 cohort, grateful to learn alongside them, and eager to see how much transformation takes place over the next eighteen months.

The UT motto is “What Happens Here Changes the World,” and what happened in New York City changed us all into better leaders, and people.

Hook ‘em!
Lexy Scheen, EMBA ’23

Learn more about the Texas McCombs Executive MBA on our website, and contact us with any questions at TexasEMBA@mccombs.utexas.edu. Sign up to receive Executive MBA news here, and register for an Executive MBA event to meet admissions and program staff, current students, and alumni.

The Executive MBA program application is open for Fall 2022 enrollment. The next deadline is February 15, 2022, and the final deadline to apply is June 15, 2022.

After Admission: Deciding Your
MBA Offer

February 1, 2021 / / Comments Off on After Admission: Deciding Your
MBA Offer

Making it through the MBA application process to receive an offer of admission from Texas McCombs is a big accomplishment! But it is not the end of your MBA admissions journey. The decision process goes both ways and you must accept your offer of admission to be enrolled in the next class. As a driven and competitive MBA candidate,  you may be deciding between offers at multiple business schools. Everyone’s individual decision is different, but a few common themes always come up when we ask our students, “Why McCombs?”

The City

Austin, Texas tops rankings for quality of life, growth, tech and innovation year after year. ATX was named the No. 1 Best Place to Live by U.S. News & World Report in 2017, 2018, and 2019!

A few photos of Austin - Lake Travis, the city, the Capitol, & a concert

The MBA program moved into a new, world-class facility in 2018. Robert B. Rowling Hall sits at the intersection of the university and the Austin business community, acting as a launchpad for ideas. Open, transparent, and flexibly designed, the building creates the physical space for you to engage, collaborate and learn experientially. Our dedication to excellence, plus our new home, made us a Top Ten Business School to Watch in 2021.

Rowling Hall exterior

Robert B. Rowling Hall, Graduate Business Building, UT Austin

The Network

Right at the center of Austin is the McCombs School of Business–  a tight-knit, driven community of students, staff and faculty, making up part of one of the largest university networks in the world:

500,000+ UTY Austin Alumni, 100,000+ McCombs Alumni, 25,000+ MBA Alumni

Our MBA culture is famously welcoming and our students come from diverse backgrounds that make our community dynamic and inspiring. It has been said that McCombs MBAs are relentlessly driven, yet they are the first to jump in and encourage and support each other to excel. Connect with current MBA students to learn more about what sets us apart.

Texas McCombs MBA Consortium Students at Rowling Hall, fall 2018

Texas McCombs Consortium MBA students at Orientation 2018

The Focus on the Future

Texas McCombs is human-centered and future-focused, meaning we have our eye on what’s coming next in business– from the exciting research coming out of McCombs every day to the many rankings where we are among the best schools in the nation. We strive to be a top business school, giving our students the best possible experience. Recently, we landed on six Top 10 lists in Princeton Review’s 2021 rankings, including No. 1 Best Campus Environment for the third year in a row!

Visit Texas McCombs MBA to find out more about all our programs, events, and community, or take a peek into student life on Instagram. Hook ’em!

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