Rachel Hagani, Carnegie Mellon Tepper MBA Class of 2027
Age: 25
Hometown: Woodbridge, CT
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University
Pre-MBA Work Experience: R&D Engineer (New Product Development) at Medtronic, 2.5 years
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I chose to attend business school to complement my engineering background with robust business and strategic skills- tools essential for launching and leading a MedTech startup. While I’m earlier in my career than many applicants, now felt like the right time to pursue my MBA because I sensed myself plateauing in my corporate role and craved an environment of continuous learning and growth. My 2.5 years in industry gave me invaluable clarity: I thrive when driving strategic decisions, engaging with diverse stakeholders, and solving technical problems in fast-paced, mission-driven settings. Business school offers the ideal platform to accelerate my transition into that kind of role.
Why did you choose Carnegie Mellon Tepper? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Carnegie Mellon stood out to me for its uniquely tech-focused MBA, analytically rigorous curriculum, and strong emphasis on entrepreneurship. The program’s integration of business and technology, including its focus on AI and digital transformation and its support for startup ventures- aligns perfectly with my career goals. It offers the ideal environment for someone like me who wants to bridge engineering with business to drive impactful innovation.
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 my deep-rooted drive to uplift and empower those around me, especially when it comes to helping others pursue their passions with confidence. Throughout my academic and professional journey, I’ve consistently found joy and purpose in supporting my peers, celebrating their wins, and encouraging them through moments of doubt. What particularly sets me apart is not just my willingness to help, but my genuine investment in the growth of those around me. I thrive in environments where collaboration and curiosity are celebrated, and I’m eager to bring that spirit to the MBA community and help my peers unlock their full potential, especially in moments when they might not yet see it in themselves.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application: During my undergrad, I founded CMU’s Club Squash Team. Returning to campus and seeing it continue to thrive is incredibly rewarding.
Post-MBA career interests:
Entrepreneurship- my goal is to start and scale my own MedTech or digital health company.
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 is take the time to deeply research each program and only apply to those that truly aligned with my interests and long-term goals. For something as transformative as an MBA, it’s essential not to compromise on program priorities and resources- they shape your experience and trajectory. I approached the application process with a clear understanding of what I wanted to gain from business school, which allowed me to focus my energy on a select few programs that matched those goals. This targeted approach not only made my applications stronger, but also helped me stay intentional and motivated throughout the process.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
If I could change one thing about my application process, I would have engaged with current students and alumni much earlier. While I eventually connected with the Tepper School community after I got accepted and during Welcome Weekend, pairing first-hand testimonials with formal program information earlier on would have given me a more personal and nuanced understanding of life at the Tepper School. Hearing directly from those who have lived the experience adds depth that brochures and websites simply can’t capture. These perspectives can be incredibly valuable in shaping not just your application, but your vision for the MBA journey.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Honestly, if I could’ve skipped any part of the application process, it would’ve been writing the first drafts of my essays. I found it challenging to articulate my goals and interests in a way that felt both authentic and concise. Striking the right balance between passion and professionalism wasn’t easy, and I often second-guessed whether I was telling my story effectively. What helped me push through was leaning on my family and friends. They reminded me that my story was worth sharing and encouraged me to stop overthinking the tone and formality. Their support helped me shift my mindset from trying to write the “perfect” essay to simply letting my passion and purpose come through naturally. Once I embraced that, the process became much more rewarding.
What is your initial impression of the Carnegie Mellon Tepper students/culture/community?
My first impression of the Tepper School is that it’s a community deeply committed to innovation, collaboration, and personal growth. From the moment I began engaging with the Swartz Center for Entrepreneurship, I felt a genuine sense of support and excitement around new ideas. Even in my early interactions, it was clear that the Tepper School isn’t just a place where startups are launched, it’s where they’re nurtured by a network of passionate students, alumni, and mentors. The energy is contagious, and the resources feel thoughtfully designed to help you move from concept to impact. I’m inspired by how accessible and hands-on everything feels, and I can already tell that the Tepper School is the kind of environment where I’ll be challenged, supported, and constantly learning.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
So far, I’ve joined the Graduate Entrepreneurship Club and the Business & Technology Club to continue expanding my knowledge and connect with peers who share my passion for innovation. I’m especially excited to participate in the hackathons and case competitions they host, which offer hands-on opportunities to collaborate and innovate. I’ve also become a member of Tepper Women in Business, as I’m deeply committed to supporting and learning from other women in leadership. Outside of academics, I have joined the Outdoor Adventure Club and the Racquet Club to stay active and connect with my peers in a fun, stress-free environment.
What is one thing you have learned about Carnegie Mellon Tepper that has surprised you?
One thing that truly surprised me about the Tepper School is just how deeply supportive the MBA class is. The small class size fosters a close-knit community where everyone genuinely knows and looks out for one another. I’ve seen classmates go out of their way to share job postings, offer helpful resources, or make introductions tailored to someone’s goals, all without being asked. This spirit of collective success is especially meaningful in an environment where classes and recruiting can be intense. The Tepper School community is one where people root for each other, and that’s something I admire and value.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m most excited to dive deeper into everything the Swartz Center has to offer. I’ve already begun engaging with its events and resources, but I know I’ve only scratched the surface. The opportunity to participate in early-stage development programs like Project Olympus and to tap into the Center’s incredible network of alumni, mentors, and industry experts, feels like a dream come true. I’m eager to fast-track both my learning and the growth of my startup by immersing myself in this vibrant ecosystem throughout my first year, and to continually surround myself with people who are just as passionate about innovation and impact as I am.
