Carter Bainbridge, Indiana Kelley MBA Class of 2028
Age: 25
Hometown: Nashville, TN
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Syracuse University, Broadcast & Digital Journalism
Pre-MBA Work Experience: On-Air Talent, Sports Media, 2 years 6 months.
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I decided to attend business school because despite the skills and positive experiences I had in my prior industry, I felt a great deal of uncertainty about my career and upward mobility in both the short and long term. Additionally, I wore many hats during my time in broadcasting and found I really enjoyed marketing tasks such as digital marketing and content creation strategy. With those interests and a desire to pivot, I chose to pursue an MBA to study marketing.
Why did you choose Indiana Kelley? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Out of all the reasons I chose Kelley, two stand out. The first is Kelley’s marketing program has a strong reputation, and that was a main draw toward applying. I felt that compared to other similarly competitive programs, Kelley’s strength in my desired area of study was a primary advantage. Additionally, I toured Indiana ahead of my undergraduate studies and came away with a positive impression of both campus and Bloomington as a whole. When I was analyzing my MBA application choices, the prior knowledge of Kelley’s setting was a plus.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2028?
I think my most valuable contribution to my class is simultaneously my most differentiating – my background in journalism. I come from a non-quantitative industry where presentation skills – such as public speaking, clarity of communication, and ability to represent an organization’s voice – are paramount. During the application process, I sometimes doubted whether my background and skills would be well-suited for an MBA environment, but I quickly learned that they are valued and legitimate assets for me.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I started collecting vinyl records earlier this year. My library is still small, but it’s mighty.
Post-MBA career interests:
My primary goal is to work in brand management within the consumer packaged goods industry where I can combine analysis, strategy, and creativity to deliver positive experiences directly to consumers. Post-MBA, my long-term goal is to lead brand strategy for a major CPG company.
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 program-hosted information sessions as possible. Once you’ve narrowed down where you’re interested in applying, learning more about those programs is crucial. You may learn something from an admissions panel you hadn’t known or considered, and that may be the difference between applying or not. I also believe how the sessions are presented makes as much of a difference as what is said in them – it gives you a first impression of the program and how it presents itself to undecided applicants.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
If I had it to do over again, I would reach out to more current students at my programs of interest to hear their insights in a less structured setting. Active students can tell you a great deal more about specific ins and outs of a program than an alum or admissions member. In addition, shaking off the nerves and reaching out to active students is a great way to get a head start on networking before you come to campus.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Studying for the GMAT and taking the exam were rigorous processes that I wish I could’ve skipped. I enrolled in a two-month online study program before taking the actual exam, and I definitely felt some test fatigue toward the end of the process. Coming up with a reasonable, repeatable study routine and taking breaks helped me get through long days. If you feel yourself losing concentration after an hour or two, take a breather – sitting down later after a break will aid your learning much better than sitting there and cramming.
What is your initial impression of the Indiana Kelley students/culture/community?
My initial impression of the Kelley community has been very positive. My class is filled with down-to-earth, hardworking people from a variety of backgrounds. I feel like we all bring something different to the table, and it’s helped us get to know one another and build bonds very quickly. I also feel that the Kelley professional staff are organized and encouraging, which has fostered an optimistic culture.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
Like most of my classmates, I’m already a part of the MBAA so I can take full advantage of events and outings with my class. I’m interested in joining the Center for Brand Leadership and Marketing Club to fully take advantage of Kelley’s professional opportunities relevant to my major. I’m also considering joining the Golf or Movement Clubs for a social outlet.
What is one thing you have learned about Indiana Kelley that has surprised you?
I have been most surprised by Kelley’s willingness and ability to connect students with alumni and company leaders. With such a large alumni base, there are Kelleys seemingly everywhere in the business world. It has been pleasant and easy to connect with them because they’ve all been very supportive and eager to help.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Outside of attending football games to see the defending National Champion Hoosiers, I’m looking forward to “Academy Week” with the rest of my classmates in the Consumer Marketing Academy. Every student at Kelley chooses an academy to aid in career development. During Academy Week, members of a given academy travel with a faculty representative to multiple cities around the country and meet with company leaders working in their field of interest. I’ve heard nothing but great things about the experience, and I think it’s a very compelling way to learn from business leaders in a real-world, hands-on environment.
