Sofia Kosterlitz, Chicago Booth MBA Class of 2027
Age: 27
Hometown: Santiago, Chile
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile – Industrial Engineering
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Consultant Trainee, Innovation Consulting (Innspiral) 2021-2022 (9 months); Growth Marketer, Fintech (Bemmbo, now Buk Finanzas) (1 year and 2 months) – 2022-2023; Digital Innovation Engineer, Oil & Gas (Copec) – 2023-2025 (1 year and 8 months)
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
As an engineer focused on innovation and design, I felt confident building products but wanted to strengthen my leadership and business skills. I’ve learned that great ideas create real impact only when they can grow and reach people at scale, so I wanted to gain the tools to make that happen. After a few years working across different areas within the innovation space, it felt like the right time to build on that experience and grow.
Why did you choose Chicago Booth?
I’m very curious and love moving across disciplines, so Booth’s flexible curriculum was the perfect fit, it lets me craft my own path. Also, I have a soft spot for Chicago, I visited once with my dad and instantly loved the city.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
My mix of creativity and analytical thinking. I’m a bit of an “artsy engineer,” which helps me use my technical background to find new solutions and connect easily with people from different backgrounds.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I once worked as a ski instructor in the U.S., I taught kids to ski and somehow managed not to lose any of them! People might argue the West Coast is better, but I skied the East Coast and loved it.
Post-MBA Career Interests:
Technology, Product Management
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Talk to current students! Those conversations told me more about each school’s culture than any website ever could.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
Apply earlier. I decided later in the year that I wanted to apply, so the GMAT, essays, and interviews all came at once — it felt like running a marathon… not that I’ve actually done one.
– What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it:
Waiting for results. The uncertainty was tough, but my friends and family kept me grounded and distracted.
What is your initial impression of the Booth students/culture/community?
Welcoming, fun, and driven. Everyone is incredibly accomplished but also down-to-earth and supportive. I’ve already found amazing friends and mentors.
What student organizations have you joined or hope to join—and why?
Booth Technology Group: I’m passionate about tech and product, and this group offers great learning and recruiting support.
Ski & Snowboard Club: I love skiing and can’t wait to hit the slopes with classmates.
Latin American Business Group: To celebrate my culture and connect with people from across the region and beyond.
What is one thing you have learned about Booth that has surprised you?
I recently learned about UChicago’s ties to Indiana Jones! Didn’t expect that connection. Here is more info in case you’re curious too.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
The people and the experiences. I’m planning to visit some national parks with friends over Thanksgiving and join the Booth ski trip to Aspen in the winter. It already feels like the start of an adventure I’ll never forget.
