Kate Bennett, Florida Warrington MBA Class of 2027
Age: 36
Hometown: Plantation, Fl
Undergraduate Institution and Major: FIU, Mass Communication
Pre-MBA Work Experience: 15 years as a local Newscast Director and 7 years as a small business owner.
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I chose to attend business school now because I’m ready to turn years of creative, media and entrepreneurial experience into a role in strategic marketing leadership. With a background in mass communication, psychology, and creative production, I’ve built a strong foundation in storytelling, audience insight, and brand building, but I wanted to continue to hone deeper analytical skills. UF’s full-time MBA offers the perfect bridge: business fundamentals, real-world applications, and a powerful network that inspires growth. I’m energized by the opportunity to refine my skills, challenge myself, and step confidently into a marketing career with purpose, strategy, and impact.
Why did you choose Florida Warrington? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Seeing the track record of transformation among their graduates reassured me that this program is so much more than “just a piece of paper”, and that it would build the knowledge, skills & connections to make a lasting difference in my career. Beyond the classroom, the scope of enrichment experiences available truly stands out!
Also, I saw firsthand the level of dedication the faculty & staff put forth to ensure the success of each and every student. I have always been an independent learner, but knowing I would have the support of the entire program through the process was extremely reassuring.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
My years of thinking creative and collaborative problem solving under pressure is my strongest asset going into this program. I definitely have an unusual background for an MBA, coming from working for NBC, but it means I bring a unique perspective and skills to the table. I am already seeing those skills being put to action in new, exciting and unexpected ways.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I’ve done a wide variety of volunteer work but the most unique was helping train dogs for the TSA at Ft Lauderdale/Hollywood Int’l Airport in advance of Super Bowl LIV.
Post-MBA career interests:
Marketing and Brand Management primarily in CPG or Media
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Attend a coffee chat and the open house! It was a great time to explore all the program has to offer, ask questions and learn about the application process.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
Apply sooner! I spent about a year mulling over if an MBA was truly right for me. I nearly submitted my applications the year before and ultimately decided not to. If I could go back in time, I would tell myself to “Just Do It.”
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
The GMAT! And I did! UF also accepts GRE scores, and I learned during a coffee chat before applying that students with backgrounds similar to mine often perform better on the GRE. Focusing on a test that would more accurately measure my aptitude definitely made test prep more palatable.
What is your initial impression of the Warrington students/culture/community?
There really is something for everyone! Case competitions, Career Showcases, Global and Domestic Immersion trips, Business Improv, Tailgates, Primitive Leadership camping trips with an expert survivalist, you name it! Not every single thing is going to appeal to everyone, but there are endless opportunities for you to find belonging and explore your interest.
At other MBA programs there can be a sense of competition within a cohort. Here they really foster a culture of collaboration over competition and I believe that makes us all stronger, more compassionate leaders.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
I’m looking forward to exploring the UF MBA Association (UF MBAA). It’s a student run organization that hosts networking and professional development opportunities. It also gives MBA’s an opportunity to work within an executive leadership structure.
What is one thing you have learned about Warrington that has surprised you?
The power of small class sizes. You share most of your classes with your small cohort that starts and graduates when you do. Ours is really intimate, which means we are building deeper connections, enjoy close relationships with our professors and have more personalized resources, like dedicated career coach time.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Building lasting relationships with so many amazing people! My cohort is small, and so are getting to know each other very well. As our careers post-MBA, spread us out across the country, across roles and across industries, we will have the start of a strong network – and friendships – that will stay with us long after graduation.
