James Scalise, NYU Stern MBA Class of 2027
Age: 29
Hometown: Cary, NC
Undergraduate Institution and Major: UNC Chapel Hill, Computer Science
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Oracle, Business Development Representative, 2 years; Oracle, Front End Engineer, 3 years; TikTok, Solutions Engineer, 1 year
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
While I enjoyed software engineering, I had come to terms with the fact that it was not what I wanted to do with my career long-term. I felt I was at the right age to make a pivot, and that business school would be the most appropriate means of doing so. I wanted to experience a variety of industries and positions, both to inform my next professional steps and to best prepare myself for a future in business leadership.
Why did you choose NYU Stern? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
NYC has been my home for three years, and I knew that I wanted to stay in the city during my education and after graduation. It was important for me to build my network here. I love downtown and what NYU and Stern represent in relation to the city—it felt like a natural fit.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
I think my background is highly unique: I’m very technical professionally, while in my personal life I have deep ties to NYC’s creative scene. I pair business instincts and problem-solving skills with an intuition for culture and for what’s new and exciting.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application.
I have experience making digital music and designing synthesizers! It’s important to me to maintain my creative interests while also developing myself professionally.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
During my interview, I felt extremely confident knowing that I had a strong story for why I made the choices I made and why I thought Stern was a great fit for me. My story was strong because it was true! It’s important to understand who you are and to communicate that with genuine enthusiasm.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would have talked to more current and former MBA students. They’re extremely friendly and willing to give you great advice on your application.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
The essays were a slight struggle because of the limited word count. Ultimately, it was a lesson in very disciplined messaging. I have a lot about myself that I wanted to share, but I realized I had to be intelligent and economical in what I focused on. Being able to appreciate this as a challenge in messaging made the process more satisfying.
What is your initial impression of the NYU Stern students/culture/community?
Extremely enthusiastic! People want to make the most out of the program and take advantage of all the experiences available to them.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
I’ve joined the Graduate Marketing Association, Entertainment Media and Sports Association, Stern Technology Association, and OutClass (so far!). I plan to pivot more into a brand/product marketing and strategy space, as these most naturally align with those ambitions.
What is one thing you have learned about NYU Stern that has surprised you?
I expected going into the program that more of the student body would already have been living in the city. In reality, the program is composed of students from everywhere, which is exciting to me as someone who values diversity of perspective. I love the city and enjoy being able to show my classmates how I do New York.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m most excited to build a network of enthusiastic and intelligent people whom I likely wouldn’t have met outside of this experience. The ability to build a professional network out of real compatriots is a rare privilege.
