Katherine Cornell, Carnegie Mellon Tepper MSBA Class of 2026
Age: 25
Hometown: Saratoga, NY
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Indiana University – Kelley School of Business, Majors: Management, Entrepreneurship & Corporate Innovation, International Business
Pre-MSBA Work Experience: Senior Compensation Associate, PNC Bank, 3 Years
Program: FT MSBA
Graduation Year: May 2026
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
During my three years at PNC, I developed a passion for data analytics and storytelling. Within HR, there were fewer opportunities to flex my skills and grow in data analysis. I knew that to continue to become a well-rounded business professional, I needed to build more data skills. Coupling this with my love of learning, I knew I needed to act quickly, and since time never slows down, if not now, then when?
Why did you choose Carnegie Mellon Tepper? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
My passion for learning, coupled with my competitive nature, paved the road to Carnegie Mellon. With my ongoing pursuit of building a stronger data analytics toolkit, the Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) program stood out to me. After surveying the options, I narrowed it down to a few academic institutions that were competitive, rigorous, and would push me to be the best I could be. What sealed the deal for me was Carnegie Mellon’s tight-knit community, especially coming from a large undergraduate institution, and the Tepper School’s curriculum and prestige. If I wanted to be the best, the Tepper School had the tools to be the best – between faculty, staff, career services, and my peers.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the class?
Even with my introverted tendencies, my most valuable contribution is showing up every day, to every class and team assignment, with a friendly attitude, smile, and empathy. It’s great to be one of the smartest people in the room, but it is even better to be the most welcoming and inviting.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I am an avid Fortnite player. Despite it being a video game, it opens the doors for long-distance connections with my friends and is a great way to keep in touch with my competitive side.
Post-MSBA career interests:
After completing my MSBA, I’ll be joining Takeda Pharmaceuticals in Boston for their Analytics Leadership Development Program.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Be authentic. Notably, this is different from being honest. Setting yourself apart as an applicant is about balancing the desire to give the “right” answer with the desire to be yourself. Every single person in the TepperSchool community brings a unique value to the table. Even if you do not see a seat at the table with your name on it, bring your own chair or even your own table. Authenticity elevates our community.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
Coming from a non-coding background, I would have spent more time following through with preparing for the program with free coding classes online. While it is not necessary, I would have been more comfortable and less stressed during the first few mini-terms.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Technically, with my background, I would have waived the GMAT/standardized testing process. One time, it was especially painful when I sat for the GMAT, and I had COVID…the online proctor felt extremely bad for me. To stay motivated, I reminded myself that the quant section is extremely important and applicable to some of the learnings in the program. I am proud I took the exam – multiple times – and it paid off in the long run.
What is your initial impression of the Carnegie Mellon Tepper students/culture/community?
People helping people. The Tepper School community and culture surpassed every expectation. Everyone comes with an established resume and background, but the students show up for each other. I was never afraid to ask a question or raise my hand.
What is one thing you have learned about Carnegie Mellon Tepper that has surprised you?
While I knew about the world-renowned CMU Drama Department, watching it in action was incredible. In my nine months at CMU, I saw two productions, both of which were amazing. I will give a special shout-out to the Hurricane Diane crew…wow!
