Ariana Katsanis, Wharton MBA Class of 2027
Age: 30
Hometown: Toronto, Canada
Undergraduate Institution and Major: McGill University, Economics
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Senior Manager, Strategy and Operations, Deel, 8 years
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I felt like I had been hopping from tech company to tech company without a clear vision for where I wanted my career to go. I wanted to take time to pause and reflect on my journey and be more intentional about the path I take moving forward. I also hope to become a business owner one day, so I wanted to strengthen my skills in areas where I felt less confident and expand my network with other like-minded individuals.
Why did you choose The Wharton School? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I spoke with many MBA graduates before making my decision, and every Wharton alum I met was extremely kind, helpful, and professional. That set the tone for the type of people I wanted to surround myself with and have in my network. Wharton also offers abundant opportunities for immersive learning, a strong focus on leadership development, and global exposure through the GMC and GIPs. All of these made Wharton a clear choice for me.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
My background is quite different compared to other MBA students. I’ve worked in tech for over 4.5 years exclusively in the future-of-work space. I bring a distinct perspective on how tech companies are disrupting the way we work globally and hope to contribute this knowledge to classroom discussions on ethics, innovation, and workplace psychology.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application.
I love to bake and create new recipes. I even made a Google Form for friends to share their taste preferences, and then I create custom desserts for them on their birthdays.
Post-MBA Career Interests:
Tech, Strategy and Ops in Tech PE or entrepreneurship
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Join Reddit practice TBDs. It was a cool opportunity to meet potential classmates – I’ve already run into a few here at Wharton. Plus, it was great practice ahead of the actual TBD.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I wish I had stressed less. I know that’s easier said than done, but I truly believe everyone ends up where they’re supposed to be. While rejections are difficult, there’s usually a reason for them. Ultimately, you’ll land at the school that’s the best fit for you. Even if you can’t see it at first, the admissions process has a way of ensuring that. Trust the process.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could and what helped you get through it?
I wish I could have skipped the GMAT. I’m a terrible test taker and spent nearly a year studying ~15 hours a week. Everything else: friends, family, the gym took a back seat. What got me through was sheer persistence, but if I had to do it again, I’d recommend taking both the GMAT and GRE upfront to see which better suits your skills. I probably would have pivoted to the GRE earlier.
What is your initial impression of the Wharton students/culture/community?
Everyone at Wharton is incredibly kind and open. I’m amazed by the breadth of intelligence and unique perspectives in every group. I’ve really enjoyed learning from people with very different backgrounds, and I wish there were more opportunities outside of the MBA to connect with such diverse experiences across career, culture, religion, and upbringing.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
Probably too many – I may regret signing up for so many! But a few I’m most excited about are:
- Womens Rugby, an opportunity to learn a new sport!
- Food Club, where I can connect with people through their home-cooked meals and food cultures
- Storytellers, to connect with classmates on a deeper level and hear about their life journeys
What is one thing you have learned about Wharton that has surprised you?
While people told me this before, I didn’t fully realize the sheer breadth of opportunities available during the MBA.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Honestly, I’m excited to explore as many opportunities as possible. Some I’m considering include pro-bono healthcare consulting in Asia, LATAM, and Africa; joining a student venture fund; being part of the Wharton dance team; trying new sports like sailing, women’s rugby, or padel; and doing impact investing for real startups with real capital. I haven’t decided which I’ll commit to yet, but I’m thrilled by the volume and variety of experiences available.
