Nathaniel Garcia, Columbia Business School MBA Class of 2027
Age: 36
Hometown: Bronx, NY
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Manhattan University – Biology (Pre-Med)
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Vaccine Scientist at Pfizer for 5 years; Manager, Office of the Chairman and CEO at Pfizer 2 years.
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
As one of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine scientists, receiving emergency use authorization was the proudest moment of my career. This pride, however, was soon supplanted with confusion and disappointment over the public’s reaction to this milestone. Seeking reconciliation between medical advancement and public trust, I joined the Office of the CEO to develop a deeper understanding of the business. Through this position, I engaged with tenured executives, identifying the gaps in our strategies that prevented Pfizer from maximizing its long-term global health impact potential, inspiring me to pursue an MBA. In today’s complex and rapidly changing environment, now more than ever is the time to be strategic about how we overcome these challenges to make the world a healthier place.
Why did you choose Columbia Business School? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
The most important factors in my choosing an MBA program were academic rigor, professional opportunity, and personal fit. I chose Columbia Business School because it offered the best of all three. Columbia Business School’s flexible curriculum and access to world-class faculty, allows me to tailor my coursework and learning to my specific professional goals. With new campus facilities and New York City as a backdrop, Columbia Business School’s robust recruiting ecosystem and programs like Executives in Residence provide direct access to industry leaders and real-world experiences. During my campus visit, I was struck by how welcoming and close-knit the community felt. Students here are genuinely collaborative, and I could see how the cluster system fosters meaningful connections within a larger program.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
I believe my most valuable contribution to the Class of 2027 is the perspective I bring as a native New Yorker with career and life experience that allow me to balance analytical rigor with empathy. Being a bit older than many classmates, I’ve learned how to listen carefully, consider diverse viewpoints, and turn them into actionable solutions.
I naturally work to ensure all voices are heard and leveraged toward a common goal, whether in professional projects or collaborative learning. In my first few weeks at Columbia Business School, I’ve already been able to bring this approach to classroom and student initiatives, helping teams navigate complex discussions and make thoughtful, inclusive decisions. By combining experience, perspective, and a collaborative mindset, I aim to strengthen both the learning environment and the community of the Class of 2027.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
At its height, my sneaker collection was over 200 pairs. I’ve whittled it down to ~100 pairs these days, but I still find it hard to turn down an exclusive drop.
Post-MBA career interests:
Pharma/Biotech Consulting
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
One thing I would absolutely do again as part of my application process is enlist the help of a consultant. Having an experienced guide helped me clarify my story, articulate my goals, and present my experiences in a way that felt authentic and compelling. The feedback I received allowed me to refine my essays, prepare for interviews, and approach the process with greater confidence and focus.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
One thing I would do differently is apply to Management Leadership for Tomorrow (MLT). Having access to their resources, mentorship, and community would have helped me refine my application strategy and connect with peers and alumni who could offer valuable insights throughout the process.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
If I could skip one part of the application process, it would be taking the standardized tests. Preparing for the GRE after being out of school for 7 years was a bit stressful and certainly time-consuming. What helped me get through it was setting a structured study schedule, breaking the material into manageable sections, and seeking support from peers and resources. The process ultimately built discipline and confidence, making the effort worthwhile even though it was challenging.
What is your initial impression of the CBS students/culture/community?
My initial impression of our students and the broader community is that they are warm, welcoming, and bring incredibly diverse and impressive backgrounds and experiences. On the first day of orientation, I met a tech founder, a neurosurgeon, and an NFL player, immediately highlighting the extraordinary range of talent and perspective at Columbia Business School.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
I have joined the Black Business Student Association and the Hispanic Business Association to help create community and foster meaningful impact both within CBS and in the broader external community. I’m also joining the Healthcare Industry Association to align with my professional interests and gain insights into the evolving healthcare landscape. I am most excited, however, to participate in the Sneaker Club, which offers exclusive events and a fun opportunity to connect with fellow sneaker enthusiasts.
What is one thing you have learned about CBS that has surprised you?
One thing that has surprised me about Columbia Business School is how approachable and engaged the faculty and alumni are, despite their impressive backgrounds and accomplishments. I did not expect professors to be so approachable and accessible, but instead I found a culture where thought partnership, mentorship, and genuine curiosity are prioritized. It was surprising and refreshing to see people so willing to share insights, help one another, and learn collectively.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
What I am most excited about is meeting new people from every corner of the world. With roughly 50% of my classmates coming from over 60 countries, they bring experiences and perspectives I’ve yet to encounter. The opportunity to learn from them, both inside and outside the classroom, is an incredibly exciting prospect that I can’t wait to explore.
