Real Humans of the Cornell Johnson MBA Class of 2028

Jessica Hua, Cornell Johnson MBA Class of 2028

Age: 27
Hometown: Houston, TX
Undergraduate Institution and Major: University of California, Berkeley; Economics, Media Studies
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Founder of Whip’d (Early-stage CPG developing high-protein cottage cheese products), CPG, <1 year; Research and analytics in Public Relations for Technology clients, Fleishman Hillard True Global Intelligence, 3 years.

Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I wanted to pursue my MBA to gain hands-on, practical experiences and learn brand management from industry experts. I felt strongly that the well-rounded exploration and rigorous training of an MBA would best prepare me with the creativity and strategic thinking that I need to find success in the CPG space.

Why did you choose Cornell? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Cornell stood out to me for its strong placement in brand management, entrepreneurship and food & agriculture resources, and tight-knit community.

Johnson’s Immersion program was also a key factor in my decision. As an aspiring Brand Manager, I plan to pursue the Strategic Product and Marketing Immersion (SPMI) and go deeper on brand strategy and go-to-market execution through targeted coursework and a hands-on project with a corporate partner. 

What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2028?
I grew up moving around frequently, where I learned how to adapt to new environments, listen closely, and find common ground with people who see the world differently. At Johnson, I hope to bring that same curiosity and empathy and help to create a space where my peers feel understood, included, and comfortable sharing their perspectives. 

Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
Before my MBA, I lived on an organic farm in Ireland to learn about farm-to-table cooking and commercial dairy production.

Post-MBA career interests:
Brand Management, Product Marketing, Consumer Packaged Goods

Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Reach out to current MBAs and alumni! Be curious in your conversations with them and showing genuine interest gets you a long way in understanding each program and how you can tailor the experience to your personal and professional goals. 

–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
To prepare for the application essays, I would have compiled a document about who I am and what I’ve done ahead of starting the application essays. It may feel like extra work, but looking back, it streamlines the essay writing process and avoids circular processes. 

–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I would have tried to limit my anxiety

What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
I also plan to get involved in Cornell’s rich food ecosystem through Johnson’s Food & Ag Club, where I’ll continue to explore new food innovations and connect with the broader Cornell and Ithaca community. 

What is one thing you have learned about Cornell that has surprised you?
I am genuinely impressed by the determination, work ethic and aspirations of my peers. The energy is absolutely contagious and I find it deeply rewarding to learn in a community comprised of such diverse backgrounds and career prospects. 

What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am excited to participate in Battle of the Brands, a case competition where my team and I will develop and execute a marketing strategy for a consumer brand. Cornell stood out to me for its emphasis on real-world exploration and I am interested in seeing how consumer insights, branding, and innovation come together by doing!