Ronniel Munoz Betances, UNC Kenan-Flagler’s MBA Class of 2028
Age: 31
Hometown: Sleepy Hollow, New York
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Siena University, Bachelor of Science in Accounting; Bachelor of Arts in Spanish
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Ernst & Young – Associate to Senior Associate – 2018 – 2021; Deloitte & Touche LLP – Senior Consultant – 2021 – 2023; The Amynta Group – Manager, Accounting Lead – 2023 – 2026
Why did you decide to attend business school? Why now?
I decided to attend business school at this stage in my career because I was not working in the field where I wanted to grow. I knew I wanted to keep learning, develop as a leader and make a meaningful impact in the financial markets. When I began my career, I was driven by the goal of becoming a leader and mentor for first-generation college graduates and the Hispanic community. Over time, however, I fell into a routine and lost sight of those aspirations. Eventually, I realized I was no longer growing, challenging myself or contributing in the way I had envisioned. I also recognized that I had lost touch with who I wanted to be, and I knew it was time to make a change.
Why did you choose UNC Kenan-Flagler? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
The people at and from UNC Kenan-Flagler are what stand out most to me. For example, the admissions team was among the most impressive groups I interacted with during the application process — they were responsive, thoughtful and attentive throughout. In addition, I’ve met alumni who attended UNC Kenan-Flagler as undergraduates and have become the kind of thoughtful, accomplished and genuine people I aspire to be like.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2028?
One of my greatest strengths is my commitment to inclusiveness. While many people value inclusion, not everyone is willing to have the honest conversations needed to foster it. I try to lean into those conversations. I make an effort to listen closely, understand different perspectives and notice when someone might be feeling left out. Often, inclusion begins with small actions — inviting in the quieter voice, asking for another perspective or creating space for someone to feel seen and heard.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I enjoy dancing, specifically Mambo New York -Style Salsa. It gets me to connect with others and gets me out of my head. It’s one of the few times I’m able to get into the flow state without any thoughts.
Post-MBA career interests:
I hope to pursue a role in real estate investment banking, where I can combine my accounting background with my interests in real estate and finance.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I was glad I spoke to the UNC Kenan-Flagler admissions team at the pre-application graduate program events, such as Consortium MAPs. Attending that event opened my eyes to all the possibilities. I was able to connect directly with admissions, and I also learned about the programs. I wouldn’t be here today if I hadn’t attended that program.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
One thing I would have done differently is research my target roles and industries more thoroughly beforehand. I had done some research, but not as much as I would have liked. I would have reached out to people in similar roles to learn what they enjoyed about their work and how they approached the recruiting process. Fortunately, investment banking still gives me some room to do that, but I do wish I had been better prepared from the start.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
If I could change one thing, I would have skipped the difficult process of shedding my old identity. I felt a sense of sadness around the changes I was experiencing, and it took a few weeks after moving for that to fully settle in. Dancing helped me through that transition, as did slowly returning to the gym. Movement, in general, reminded me that a new version of myself was waiting on the other side of acceptance.
What is your initial impression of the UNC Kenan-Flagler students/culture/community?
What I enjoy most so far is the incredible faculty, my peers and the campus environment. I’m especially excited to become more involved on campus once the first module slows down.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
- Investment Banking Club – I am pivoting into real estate investment banking because of my interest in real estate and the role bankers play in helping companies access capital. The Investment Banking Club will help me prepare for recruiting and interviews this fall.
- Real Estate Club – UNC Kenan-Flagler’s strong real estate program is one of the main reasons I chose the school. The Real Estate Club will help me deepen my industry knowledge and close gaps in my understanding of the field.
- Latin American Club – I am excited to connect with other Hispanic students at UNC. Being able to share our experiences, support one another, and build community is something I value deeply.
What is one thing you have learned about UNC Kenan-Flagler that has surprised you?
One thing that has surprised me is how quickly the modules move. In undergrad, I was used to a semester system, so adjusting to the pace and intensity of modules has been an experience. It has been demanding, but I am enjoying it and time has flown by since I arrived on campus.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m most looking forward to building stronger relationships with my classmates. We have all been moving at a fast pace since arriving on campus, but once things settle down, I know there will be more opportunities to connect and get to know one another better. I’m really excited for that.
