Ryann Engholm, Minnesota Carlson MBA Class of 2027
Age: 38
Hometown: Bloomington, Minnesota
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Central College, B.A. Exercise Science – Health Promotion
Pre-MBA Work Experience: I’ve been an Occupational Therapist (OT) for the past six years—most recently at Mayo Clinic in acute care with additional experience as an OT across pediatrics, mental health, traumatic brain injury/polytrauma, and vision therapy. I also have a background as a logistics officer in the Marine Corps, area manager for Amazon Logistics, and quality supervisor for an ophthalmic lens manufacturing company.
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I am so grateful for the growth and leadership opportunities my diverse professional experiences have provided. As a healthcare provider, I have seen firsthand the systemic gaps that limit patient outcomes. I believe business school is the best path to pair my clinical and leadership background with the business skills required to drive change at a higher, system-wide level.
Why did you choose Minnesota Carlson? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Minnesota has always been home, and I am committed to creating a positive impact in the community that shaped me. Carlson’s culture, strengthened by its location, aligns closely with my values and career goals, and my father’s positive experience there reinforced that fit. The tight-knit community and the strength of the Medical Industry Leadership Institute (MILI) program offerings were central factors in my decision to attend.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
I bring a differentiated perspective as a queer woman and military veteran who has worked across healthcare and diverse industries. Throughout my career, I have advocated for inclusion in spaces where people like me have been underrepresented and unheard. My dedication to lead with authenticity gives others the confidence with which to bring their full selves to the table, which strengthens teams and drives better outcomes.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
During undergrad, I was an intern strength and conditioning coach and student-athlete. I spent most of my time in the weight room, fieldhouse, and softball diamond, either training myself or coaching other athletes. Prior to commissioning in the Marine Corps, I considered very seriously about becoming a strength and conditioning coach at the collegiate or professional level.
Post-MBA career interests:
I plan to remain in healthcare in a strategic or operational leadership role. While my provider experience is primarily in hospital and outpatient settings, I am excited by the breadth of opportunities in the Twin Cities across world-class health systems, medical device, and health tech companies.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I would absolutely attend as many information sessions as possible and ask targeted questions of staff, alumni, and current students. Each conversation helped clarify my goals and confirmed that Minnesota Carlson was the right fit.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would have made the leap sooner! I am so grateful for my wife, family, friends, and colleagues supporting me in this career decision. It felt like a difficult choice at first, but everything so far along the way has reaffirmed that it was the right one to make. I am so grateful I took the chance and finally just went for it.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I can be a little impatient at times—especially if I’ve made my mind up about something. I decided this was a journey I was ready to embark on just after the application deadline for the previous cohort, so waiting an extra admissions cycle tested that patience a bit. Staying engaged with current and former students about their experiences and preparing intentionally for the transition helped me use that year productively.
What is your initial impression of the Minnesota Carlson students/culture/community?
My initial impression of Minnesota Carlson is one of unwavering dedication and support. I have never been in a more supportive and welcoming community where at every turn, classmates, alumni, faculty, and staff not only ask about my aspirations but also look for concrete ways to help me achieve them.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
I plan to be active in the MILI Student Association, Compass, and Military Veterans of Minnesota Carlson which together reflect my professional interests and personal identity. I am eager to contribute meaningfully to these communities and help enhance their impact.
What is one thing you have learned about Minnesota Carlson that has surprised you?
I have been surprised by the breadth, depth, and responsiveness of the Carlson alumni network and the unique reciprocity at work with the school. There always seems to be an alum ready to support current students, and the school invests in maintaining those relationships long after graduation.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am particularly excited about the experiential learning in the domestic and global valuation labs, including the opportunity to collaborate with students and professionals in Sweden this Spring. I am also looking forward to applying these experiences in my upcoming summer internship with UnitedHealth Group.
