Jack Thomas, Michigan Ross MBA Class of 2027
Age: 33
Hometown: Allentown, PA
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Temple University, Media Studies & Production
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Talent Management, Film & Television, LBI Entertainment (7 years) / Paradigm Talent Agency (2 years)
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I was seeking the next challenge in my career, and wanted to broaden my horizons by adding a formal business education to the skills I’d already developed in my early career. I was also looking for an opportunity to lead through my work, and have a broader impact than just in the entertainment industry. I had been thinking about business school for several years, so in some ways it felt like now or never.
Why did you choose Michigan Ross? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Michigan Ross was my top choice from early on in my admissions journey, primarily because of their emphasis on action-based learning, in particular their Multidisciplinary Action Project (MAP), which I will be completing this spring. The strong sense of community at Ross was also a prominent factor in my decision – I felt the collaborative and supportive environment throughout the admissions process, and it’s certainly continued during my first year here!
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
I’ve tried to be my authentic self during my time at Ross, and I hope that’s rubbed off on my classmates during my first year. There’s no one-size-fits-all mold for a successful MBA, and I think that putting your most authentic foot forward is a valuable mindset to have while at business school.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I’m a musician, and I play in Ross’ MBA band Risky Business – we play multiple shows a year, it’s a lot of fun.
Post-MBA career interests:
Management Consulting
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I would absolutely get as much perspective as possible from current and former MBAs, particularly on the different career paths that are available. I think my admission to Ross was largely driven by being able to clearly articulate my career goals.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would not wait until the last minute to get the best standardized test score – get that out of the way early!
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I would’ve skipped doing the standardized test, but I got through it by using online resources that broke the exam down into manageable chunks that helped me focus on what I needed to improve.
What is your initial impression of the Michigan Ross students/culture/community?
I truly believe that there is no business school in the world like Michigan Ross, because of the incredible community and culture here. The student body is collaborative and supportive, especially the MBA2s as we navigate recruiting for summer internships. I felt this supportive culture from the first day of orientation, and it’s only grown stronger as the year has gone on.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
I’ve joined Risky Business, the Ross MBA band, the Michigan Business Social Association, The Bus Crew, the Consulting Club, and the Ski & Snowboard Club. I wanted a good balance of professional development and social activities.
What is one thing you have learned about Michigan Ross that has surprised you?
What has surprised me about Michigan Ross is how it feels like everyone has your back – from fellow MBA1s to the second-year students, the Career Development Office, and all the professors.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m most excited to work with my fellow students on an exciting and challenging MAP project.
