Ryan Anderson, Florida Warrington MBA Class of 2027
Age: 28
Hometown: Winter Park, FL
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Loyola University Chicago, Economics
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Senior Associate, Management Consulting, PwC, 4.5 Years
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
After four years at PwC I spent eight months backpacking in Southeast Asia, part of it studying and part of it exploring. The time away gave me perspective and confirmed that I wanted more than technical reporting work. I want to move into strategy where I can shape growth and decisions directly, and an MBA is the path to make that pivot.
Why did you choose Florida Warrington? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose Florida Warrington because I wanted a small class size where I could really get to know my classmates and faculty. It also felt like a return home, since my mom is a UF alum, and I wanted to carry on that connection. The strong academic reputation and competitive ranking made it an easy decision.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
My most valuable contribution is the perspective I bring from spending eight months backpacking solo through Southeast Asia after four years at PwC. That mix of professional experience and personal resilience allows me to connect with people from different backgrounds, adapt quickly, and encourage classmates to take risks in their own careers.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
While backpacking through Southeast Asia I started vlogging on YouTube, filming everything from motorbike rides to temple visits. Along the way I also discovered my love for fresh sugarcane juice, which became my go-to drink after long days exploring.
Post-MBA career interests:
I plan to pursue roles in strategy and growth at high-growth tech or finance companies, with a focus on market analysis, product expansion, and scaling businesses.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Think about studying for the GMAT while full time traveling. I cannot tell you how amazing it was to study for the GMAT in Bali, Kuala Lumpur, Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok… not only did I save money but I saw the world.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
Apply earlier and network more with current students. Try to learn about the different timeline options for completing an MBA and their different value propositions!
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Honestly there wasn’t a part I would have skipped. The process was straightforward, communication was clear, and UF made it feel easy to navigate.
So this might sound silly but worrying about things I can’t control!
What is your initial impression of the Warrington students/culture/community?
My first impression is that Warrington students are collaborative and supportive, with a culture that feels more like a community than a competition.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
I plan to get involved with Out@Warrington and the Pride Student Union. Both communities matter to me because I know how important it is to feel supported while navigating school and career as an LGBTQ+ student. I want to provide mentorship to people who are in situations similar to mine and help create the kind of inclusive spaces that made a difference for me.
What is one thing you have learned about Warrington that has surprised you?
I didn’t expect the MBA program to have its own tailgate at football games and a dedicated space in the building. Both make it clear that the program values community and gives us ways to spend real time together.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m excited for the variety this first year will bring collaborating on case studies in class, picking up tennis for the first time, and even working with a nutritionist to build better habits. I’m also really looking forward to representing UF at the ROMBA MBA Conference and connecting with the broader LGBTQ+ MBA community.
