Kelly Niewolak, Notre Dame Mendoza MBA Class of 2027
Age: 27
Hometown: Hudson, Ohio
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Michigan State University, International Relations
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Account Manager, Software, Oracle and Sievo, 5 years
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
There were two factors that led to my decision to attend business school. First, coming from a liberal arts background I felt that there was a gap in my business acumen when engaging with clients. I also knew that I wanted to pivot from enabling companies with the software solutions to achieve their business objectives to being the one to execute on those strategies. I felt that I was at a point in my career where business school would enable me to elevate and grow to the next level.
Why did you choose Notre Dame Mendoza? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I knew I wanted a small tight-knit program where the environment was supportive and collaborative among students. When speaking with students and alumni that is exactly what I found in Mendoza. I was also looking for a school with a strong mission and Notre Dame’s Growing the Good in Business really embodied the values I was looking for in a school combining ethical leadership with academic excellence. Additionally, everyone I met with went out of their way to help and share their experience which speaks volumes about the individuals that Notre Dame attracts.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
My academic and professional background spans working with small businesses through global Fortune 500 companies, giving me a broad and practical perspective on how value is created across different business contexts. In the classroom, I can cut through complexity and connect big ideas to real decisions leaders have to make.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I love live music and am an avid concertgoer. The furthest I have traveled is Germany for a show!
Post-MBA career interests:
Healthcare/pharmaceutical marketing
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
If you can, I highly recommend visiting campus! I did my interview in person, and this helped me view myself as a potential member of the community and get a better feel for campus life.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would have started studying for the GRE earlier. I would recommend beginning to study the fall before you intend to apply. It would have been helpful to not have had the GRE and working on applications overlap.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Studying for the GRE. I highly recommend having a study schedule or structured program to help stay on track.
What is your initial impression of the Notre Dame Mendoza students/culture/community?
Notre Dame has surpassed my expectations and been impactful since day one! This is an institution that has a deep history and values, and it has been really fulfilling to see that those core beliefs are truly carried out by the Mendoza community and embedded in the day-to-day culture at Notre Dame.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
I am in a few, but most notably Women in Business. I am currently serving as the VP of Internal Relations. I think it is so important to advance and create opportunities for women in the business world, so I was excited to take on this role and hopefully bring more women to Mendoza!
What is one thing you have learned about Notre Dame Mendoza that has surprised you?
How active and willing the second years have been with helping us! Whether it is helping to prep for and sharing internship interview experiences or practicing casing. Their involvement has been valuable during the recruiting process.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Traveling to Uganda! I am in an experiential learning class called Business on the Frontlines that partners with an organization to work on a consulting project. I am working with a team of students and a partner school to discover opportunities in the Agago district of Uganda.
