Fadi Alattar, ASU Carey MBA Class of 2027
Age: 24
Hometown: Palestine & Saudi Arabia
Undergraduate Institution and Major: TED University (Turkey) — B.Arch in Architecture
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Head of Business Growth & Innovation, SANA Holding Co. (Architecture & real estate consulting, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia) — 2 years.
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
Working in my family’s architecture and real estate company, I realized I thrived not just in design but in strategy, business growth, and shaping client relationships. I saw how architecture and real estate influence people’s lives, from their psychological well-being to their sense of community — and how sustainable, eco-friendly design can transform society. To scale these ideas into broader impact, I need the business toolkit to complement my design background and fill the gap between architecture and business. At 24, I felt it was the right moment to pursue an MBA: young enough to adapt quickly, but with enough experience to know how I want to grow.
Why did you choose ASU Carey?
W. P. Carey’s strong ties to innovation and entrepreneurship stood out, but equally important was its culture of diversity and impact. I wanted a program that values social responsibility, forward-thinking leadership, and collaboration. The incredible support from staff, faculty, and the scholarship made it the perfect fit.
What do you think is your most valuable/differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
My global background and entrepreneurial mindset. As I am from Palestine, raised in Saudi Arabia, studied my bachelor in Turkey, and now live in the U.S. I’ve learned to adapt quickly across cultures and markets. I’ve seen firsthand how cities and spaces affect human behavior, opportunity, and well-being. I want to contribute by highlighting how architecture, business, and sustainability intersect, ensuring our class discussions aren’t just about profit, but also about creating lasting value for communities.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I’ve learned that food is the easiest way to make friends in a new country — and as it happens, most of my best business ideas come over dinner too. It’s basically my global networking strategy
Post-MBA Career Interests:
In the mid term, I’m interested in real estate development and related business models where I can integrate my design expertise with the business and strategy skills I’m gaining through the MBA. I’m particularly drawn to roles combining innovation, development, and business growth, whether in real estate firms, consulting roles, or corporate real estate.
In the long term, I aim to establish a sustainable development company that delivers design excellence while prioritizing eco-friendly, human-centered solutions that positively impact communities.
Advice for Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Leverage conversations with current students and alumni — they gave me authentic insights.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
Start my essays earlier; I had a lot of ideas but needed more time to refine them.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
The long waiting periods after interviews! What helped me was staying focused on work and reminding myself the process is out of my control.
What is your initial impression of the ASU Carey students/culture/community?
Incredibly supportive and welcoming. Everyone genuinely wants their classmates to succeed, which makes the environment collaborative and motivating.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
-Entrepreneurship Club (for startup-minded peers)
-International MBA Club (to share and learn from global perspectives)
What is one thing you have learned about ASU Carey that has surprised you?
How accessible and supportive the faculty and staff are. They truly make you feel seen and invested in your success from day one.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Exploring career opportunities through hands-on projects and networking while building lifelong friendships within the cohort.
