Diana Donoslovic, Washington University Olin’s MBA Class of 2025
Diana Donoslovic, Washington University Olin’s MBA Class of 2025Age: 32
Hometown: Subotica, Serbia and Hilton Head Island, SC
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Savannah College of Art and Design, BFA in Performing Arts
Pre-MBA Work Experience (role, company, years): 8-10yrs mainly in the sports and broadcasting industries
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I wanted to expand my business knowledge to help scale my own entrepreneurial venture. As we had to cease operations during the pandemic, the timing was perfect to take a pause and earn my MBA.
Why did you choose Washington Olin? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
It was crucial for me to attend a school that was well-known for supporting entrepreneurs and teaching entrepreneurial skills specifically in addition to the MBA curriculum.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the WashU Olin MBA Class of 2025?
I think I have a very varied background; having graduated from an art and design college, as well as having worked in the sports industry and owning a small business, I believe I bring a unique viewpoint and transferrable real-world skills.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I’ve seen just about every stand-up special released in the last decade or so!
Post-MBA career interests:
Entrepreneurship and marketing
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I would be honest and vulnerable in both my skills and weaknesses and what I hope to take away from this program.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
One thing I found very helpful was speaking to current students and alumni both regarding the application process as well as university life. I learned a lot and would recommend it to prospective students as well.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
The standardized test prep – and giving myself enough time not to feel pressured
What is your initial impression of the Washington Olin students/culture/community?
Diversity! We have such an incredibly diverse cohort representing not only so many countries and cultures, but also career backgrounds. Both when working in our groups and when traveling, I know whatever I may need or whichever question I might have, there will be someone in our cohort more than qualified and willing to help out!
What is one thing you have learned about Washington Olin that has surprised you?
The very collaborative environment. I wasn’t expecting to work so closely and learn so much from my classmates.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
The fast pacing of the curriculum as my undergraduate degree is so far removed from the type of curriculum taught in an MBA program.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
To learn how to successfully scale a business and make new friends!
