Oinatz Uribe, Tuck MBA Class of 2019
Age: 31
Hometown: Durango, Spain
Undergraduate Institution and Major: University of Colorado, accounting and finance
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 5 years in corporate finance at an industrial technology company. Before that, I was a professional cyclist for over 4 years.
Why business school? Why now? I developed strong analytical and quantitative skills, but I realized there were skills I needed to strengthen if I wanted to become a leader. I realized a MBA would help me further develop my leadership and communication skills while learning from some of the smartest people I’ll ever meet.
Why Tuck? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend? There were a few different factors that played into my decision. I wanted to attend a school that focused on building a strong community, and talking to alumni and students I realized how strong the Tuck community is and how excited everyone is to be here. It was also important for me to be in a community that supports partners and families, and Tuck does a great job of this.
I also wanted a school where I’d be able to achieve my career goals. Tuck has impressive career statistics and a very accessible and supportive alumni network. Even as a prospective student it was easy to see this.
Lastly, I wanted to attend a school with a rigorous program, where I would be challenged with my education and get a well-rounded business education. Tuck’s core curriculum gives the opportunity to get experience in different business areas which I believe is very important to gaining the skills to lead an organization in the future. I was also impressed by the leadership development focus that Tuck offers.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2019? I think that having a sports and business background I bring a diverse point of view to Tuck. At my last position before Tuck I was involved in decision-making at all levels of the organization so I have a holistic view of business that I can share with my classmates. Having worked in business at the different layers of an organization—from entry to executive level—I can understand different points of views and objectives.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application? I speak Basque, one of the oldest languages still spoken. It’s only spoken in the Basque Country, a small region in the north of Spain and southwest of France. To this point, there is no evidence about its linguistic origin.
Post-MBA career interests? I’d like to try strategy consulting. I think it’s a field I’ll really enjoy.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process? Start early! I took the time to visit schools and talk to alumni and students early in the process, which was very helpful to decide what schools I was most excited about. I also tried to take the GMAT as early as possible, so I could focus on writing the essays over the summer. I’d definitely recommend talking to as many people as you can, as they will be able to give different perspectives about each school.
–One thing you would change or do differently? I would have taken more time to reflect on my past experiences before writing my essays. I probably started writing the essays too early without thinking about what to write before.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it? Studying for the GMAT is the part that I would have skipped if I could. It was difficult to focus on work and studying for GMAT at the same time and it took a lot of energy out of me. I studied with my wife for the most part, which definitely helped me get through it. Finding someone who is at the same stage of the application process can be helpful to get through it together and support each other.
Greatest highlight so far at Tuck? The people I’ve met and the community we’ve built have been the greatest highlights at Tuck so far. I’ve been surprised by how easy it has been to connect with fellow classmates and to build strong relationships in a short period of time. I’m very excited to spend the next two years with this group with incredibly talented people.
Tripod hockey has been another highlight. It’s a great opportunity to meet second-year students and other Tuck community members, and playing hockey definitely helps release some stress after a busy day.
One thing about Tuck that you didn’t expect before arriving? I was surprised by all the leadership opportunities we get very early on at Tuck. From club leadership opportunities to student board positions, first-year students get opportunities to make an impact in the Tuck community very early.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year? Finding a balance between all the things to do is something that will continue to be a challenge in the first year. It’s incredible how busy the first semester has been with classes, recruiting, social life, and leadership opportunities. I want to make sure I find time to spend with my family and relax. Prioritizing and time management is going to be important.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year? I’m very excited about the opportunities to travel internationally, especially on the Global Insight Expeditions. It will be a great opportunity to travel with classmates and learn about a different culture. I’m also really looking forward to the client consulting opportunities we have in the first year. Currently, I’m working on a project for a local non-profit with four other classmates.
