Angela Leach, Michigan State Broad MBA Class of 2027
Age: 22
Hometown: Clarkston, MI
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Michigan State University, Bachelor of Science, Biomedical and Molecular Nutrition with a Minor in Entrepreneurship and Innovation.
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Over the past several years, I have gained diverse experience across entrepreneurship, healthcare, and leadership. As a Student Venture Creation Intern, I supported student entrepreneurs by guiding them through the venture creation process, connecting them to strategic resources, and assisting with program administration to ensure a seamless experience. I also co-founded Memory Sketch, LLC, a biotech startup developing an AI-powered device to monitor Alzheimer’s progression, where I serve as CEO. My entrepreneurial efforts have been recognized through several awards, including winning the Unique Idea and People’s Choice Awards at the Burgess New Venture Challenge, securing first place in the university-wide Entrepreneurship & Innovation Pitch Competition, and being selected for the competitive MSU Launch Program focused on advanced venture scaling. In healthcare, I interned in hospital administration and nutrition research at Insight Surgical Hospital, contributing to a study demonstrating significant improvements in pain and inflammation management through nutrition, and helped optimize billing processes within the Anesthesia and Pain Management Department. Additionally, I supported patient care as a Medical Assistant in the Neurosurgery Department. Alongside these roles, I have been a group fitness instructor at MSU for five years, teaching two classes per week and serving as the lead group fitness mentor, providing guidance and support to fellow instructors. I also served on the hiring committee for the group fitness program, helping to select a coordinator position. Throughout my experiences, I have consistently demonstrated leadership and teamwork, recognized by multiple awards and my current role as President of the Entrepreneurship Association.
Why did you decide to attend business school? Why now?
During my junior year of undergrad, I decided to attend business school. While I have a deep passion for nutrition, I recognized the importance of developing leadership skills and learning to make data-driven decisions. At that time, I was interested in pursuing the hospital administration field, where my healthcare background would be valuable, but where business expertise was essential. I realized there was no better time to expand my skill set. With a clear vision of my goals, I am confident that earning an MBA will equip me with the tools necessary to succeed in whichever career path I choose.
Why did you choose Michigan State Broad College of Business? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose Michigan State University’s Broad College of Business because of its smaller cohort size, which fosters a tight-knit community. The school also has a dedicated team that supports MBA students in securing internships and full-time roles, and the statistics on average post-graduation income were very impressive. One of the most significant factors influencing my decision was Broad’s strong entrepreneurial outreach. The college’s close partnership with the Burgess Institute has been an invaluable resource for me, especially since I have personally gone through the Venture Creation program. I am fortunate to serve as a graduate assistant for both the MBA program and the Burgess Institute, while also holding the position of President of the Entrepreneurship Association.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
I believe my most valuable contributions to the Class of 2027 are my creativity, optimism, and passion for both professional and personal growth. With experience as a group fitness instructor and mentor, I’ve developed the ability to inspire and motivate others from within, fostering strong connections and a supportive community. Additionally, I bring a deep advocacy for entrepreneurship, sharing how its mindset and design thinking approach can be applied effectively across any career path.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
Over the summer, I had the opportunity to compete in a national pitch competition in Chicago, representing Michigan State University and Memory Sketch.
Post-MBA career interests:
Supply Chain and Finance: Project Management, Leadership Development, Consultant
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
One piece of advice I’d absolutely follow again is to attend as many events as possible at the school you’re considering. It demonstrates genuine interest and initiative—qualities that leave a strong impression. I’d also recommend starting your research on potential concentrations during the summer. I began in May, which gave me time to reflect on the skills I wanted to develop and better understand which industries aligned with my goals. If you have the opportunity, attend a national conference as well. It was incredibly valuable for me in learning not only what I was looking for in a role, but also what I wanted to avoid, especially when it comes to company culture. Plus, there are often scholarships available to help cover costs; you just have to be proactive in seeking them out.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
One thing that I would have done differently is applied to more scholarships for national conferences! They exist, and they are worth applying to since they can get expensive quickly.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Honestly, there isn’t a single part of the application process I would have skipped. Every point of contact I had with MSU was intentional and meaningful, each one serving a clear purpose in helping me better understand the program and community. I gained valuable insights through every interaction, and each experience along the way was overwhelmingly positive!
What is your initial impression of the Michigan Broad students/culture/community?
I was truly blown away the first time I experienced the MSU Broad student culture and community in person. Although my interview was online, when I met the admissions team face-to-face for the first time, they already knew my name and remembered the details of our previous conversations. It was clear that I wasn’t just another applicant. At the Admitted Student Event in April, the second-year students were incredibly welcoming and genuine, making me feel like my presence truly mattered. I felt as though I had been personally chosen to be part of something special—to contribute to Broad’s vibrant, collaborative, and supportive culture.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
I currently serve as the President of the Entrepreneurship Association. I joined because I believe entrepreneurship is a powerful tool that benefits every student—regardless of their major or career path. My goal as president is to make the entrepreneurial mindset more accessible and less intimidating by taking a holistic approach. I aim to create high-impact experiences and bring in speakers who reflect non-traditional entrepreneurial paths—those who may not have started their own ventures but still apply entrepreneurial thinking in innovative ways. This mindset has fundamentally changed the way I approach both my personal and professional life, and I want others to experience that same transformation.
What is one thing you have learned about Michigan Broad that has surprised you?
I was surprised at how involved the Palmer Career Management Team is in helping the MBA students find jobs and internships. They are truly invested in us and our futures, and they have been an unbelievably helpful resource.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am most excited about the opportunity to potentially study abroad in Ireland this year! Having only traveled to Mexico and Canada, this would be my first experience immersing myself in a completely different culture for an extended period of time. I’m especially eager to explore how business operates on a global scale, and studying in Ireland—home to many multinational companies and a hub for innovation—feels like the perfect place to begin that journey. I’m looking forward to gaining firsthand insight into international business practices, expanding my global perspective, and building connections with students and professionals from around the world. This experience will not only enrich my academic journey but also prepare me to think more strategically and cross-culturally in my future career.
