Taylor Tjosaas, Vanderbilt Owen MBA Class of 2027
Age: 35
Hometown: Riverside, CA
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Wesleyan University, Neuroscience & Behavior
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Pararescueman, U.S. Air Force (Defense, 13 years); Flight Medic, Search and Rescue in Papua New Guinea (Energy/Medical, 2 years)
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
Most of my adult life was in rescue work, both military and civilian. It was rewarding, but I knew I didn’t want to stay in that world forever. I wanted a career where I could keep learning, work on complex problems, and build something bigger than myself. An MBA is the fastest way to gain the foundation and network I didn’t get on the job.
Why did you choose Vanderbilt Owen? What factors figured most prominently into your decision?
I wanted a smaller cohort where I could connect with classmates and professors while still having strong recruiting opportunities. Owen also stood out as the most military friendly program I applied to. They fully cover tuition with Yellow Ribbon benefits and are the only MBA with a program like the Bass scholarship.
At my military rescue squadron, our motto was “Non sibi, sed aliis,” meaning not for self but for others. That motto was integral to why I served in the military. As a Bass Scholar, I get the unique opportunity to continue putting others first while completing my MBA.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
I’ve led teams in environments where the stakes were life or death. I can share how to make critical decisions under pressure and keep a team calm when everything is on the line.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application.
My wife and I have been converting a sprinter van for several years. It’s our favorite and most frustrating project.
Post-MBA career interests
Strategy in both consulting and healthcare. Long term, I want to start my own company.
Advice for current prospective applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Visit. Sitting in on a class and meeting students showed me this was the MBA experience I wanted.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
Connect earlier. Owen students were more willing to talk and help than I expected.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Test prep. It is a grind. Remember it doesn’t define you.
What is your initial impression of the Vanderbilt Owen community?
Collaborative, supportive, and down to earth. People are ambitious, not cutthroat.
What student organizations are you hoping to join and why?
Owen Strategy and Consulting Club and the Vanderbilt Business Healthcare Association to support my professional goals. The Armed Forces Club to stay connected to the veteran community. The Owen Outdoor Adventure Club for fun and balance outside the classroom.
What is one thing you have learned about Vanderbilt Owen that has surprised you?
How accessible professors are. I expected access, but not at this level.
What are you most excited about in your first year?
Inside Owen, learning from classmates about how they’ve handled leadership in different industries. Outside Owen, exploring Nashville’s food and music scene.
