Ava McClain, Chicago Booth MBA Class of 2027
Age: 29
Hometown: New Orleans, Louisiana
Undergraduate Institution and Major: The College of William & Mary, Sociology and Government double major
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Founder of IT Recruiting Agency, Tekchix for past 7 years.
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I decided to attend business school when I recognized that my business was ready to grow beyond its Louisiana footprint, but I lacked the tools to scale it effectively. I wanted to develop stronger strategic and analytical skills and learn from proven frameworks and case studies rather than relying on trial and error. I was also eager to build a broader, more diverse network of professionals from around the world—people whose perspectives could help me think bigger and expand beyond my local market.
Why did you choose Chicago Booth? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
The culture at Booth is nothing short of outstanding. The students, faculty, and staff really take the ‘pay it forward’ motto to heart. Even before I was admitted to Booth, students were so willing to give their time to me to connect me with helpful resources and share insight into the program. I knew that if I were to attend Booth, I would gain a lifelong network of allies and champions who could help me tackle issues and grow, and that I would do the same for them.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
There are not many students who have founded and maintained a business for 7+ years, and I think my perspective as someone who has survived the trials of startup stage and sustained a successful business can be helpful to those considering the entrepreneurship path. I’m happy to have others learn from my mistakes and accomplishments so that they can be set up for success in the future too!
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I’ve ridden in the oldest all-women Mardi Gras parade in New Orleans, the Krewe of Iris!
Post-MBA career interests:
I will put my strategic plan into action to scale my company, Tekchix, nationwide.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I’m so thankful that I met with current Booth students to hear about their experience and lessons learned. Not only did this help me to write well-informed essays, but it helped me to evaluate Booth’s fit for me and my goals.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would have come to campus and taken a tour, which also allows you to shadow a class. I think the more in-person time you get on campus, the better. If you’re able to come to campus for an in-person interview, that is another great opportunity to really visualize yourself as a Boothie.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
The standardized tests are tedius, and I would have loved to skip them. What helped me get through it was coming up with a non-negotiable study schedule, and then at the end of the day realizing that the application is about much more than test scores. Share your story and the strengths you bring to the table that may not be apparent from test scores through your essays.
What is your initial impression of the Chicago Booth students/culture/community?
I had high expectations for the Booth culture and community, and I have not been disappointed! The school’s emphasis on a robust orientation experience allows you to make close friends right away, and everyone is kind, approachable, and eager to spend time with you.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
So far, I have joined the Private and Family Business Club, the Chicago Booth Veg Club, and the Chicago Business Newspaper. The Private and Family Business Club is a great way for me to connect with other business owners who may have faced similar challenges to mine and have found better solutions. The Chicago Booth Veg Club is great for a vegetarian like me, and I look forward to enjoying the amazing veggie-friendly restaurant options around Chicago with this group. And finally, the Chicago Business Newspaper appealed to me because it’s a great way to keep my finger on the pulse of what’s happening around campus and to work on my writing skills.
What is one thing you have learned about Chicago Booth that has surprised you?
Booth students have so many opportunities to join clubs, go on treks (vacations with other Boothies), and attend social events that it can be a bit overwhelming at first, but it’s a great ‘problem’ to have. You want to make the most of your two years on campus, and they make sure there are plenty of opportunities that fit different students’ preferences.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m very excited for the Colombia Trek, which many first years attend over Spring Break. For context, Chicago Booth coordinates a ‘Random Walk’ trip for students to go on vacation with a handful of classmates to build relationships before the school year begins. My partner and I went on the trip to Hawaii, and that was a fantastic experience. Now, I’m excited for an even bigger travel opportunity as over 500 Boothies explore Colombia together!
