Patrick “Pat” Rives, Michigan Ross MBA Class of 2028
Age: 29
Hometown: Alexandria, VA
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Virginia Tech, Political Science
Pre-MBA Work Experience: 7 years, U.S. Army Infantry Officer
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
After graduation, I will go on to become a teacher at West Point and to do so, the Army sponsored me to earn my MBA. I want to teach cadets not only how to lead, but how to lift others, solve problems with humility and clarity, and build teams that thrive under pressure. Ross is the ideal place to prepare for this mission because its actions-based learning model directly mirrors the way I’ve led and grown throughout my Army career.
Why did you choose Michigan Ross? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Ross’s action-based learning model is exactly how I have learned in my Army experience and its emphasis on making an impact through business resonates with me deeply. My life mantra is to leave the Earth a better place than I found it and I feel like Ross was the perfect spot to help my achieve that dream. Location, School pride, and opportunities to expand, learn, and develop were main factors in my choices and Michigan exceeds in all those.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2028?
My Army leadership background and the fact that I will not be pursuing a full time job after my MBA allows me to focus my energy on helping and assisting all my classmates achieve their dreams.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I’ve ran with the Bulls in Pamplona 3 times and it’s my favorite event I’ve ever participated in.
Post-MBA career interests:
I will become an instructor at West Point and continue my Army service.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Interview, I love having the opportunity to speak to the great Ross admissions teams and being able to connect and share my story.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
Reach out to more student ambassadors to get more connected with Ross earlier in my timeline
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
The GRE. Quantitative skills are not my biggest strength and I had to put in a lot of hours for studying for that. Magoosh and GRE study guides were my best friends and just ensuring I blocked off time for those study sessions were essential.
What is your initial impression of the Michigan Ross students/culture/community?
Welcoming, energetic, and belonging. There is a sense of pride and family here. We are all here together and we all want to make an impact in our communities and it’s just a great feeling to be around like-minded people.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
Entertainment, Media and Sports Association, Michigan Marketing Club, Armed Forces Association, Golf Club, Ross Leaders Academy, and Golub Nonprofit Board Members. I would love to find an internship in sports operations / consulting, MMC to broaden my horizon and learn new skills, I love golf its my passion, I want to expand my leadership skills from learning from fellow leaders here at Ross, and I would love to make a lasting impact on the local community through my contributions as a board fellow.
What is one thing you have learned about Michigan Ross that has surprised you? T
The professors genuinely care and are passionate about you understanding the material. They make themselves available and WANT you to succeed, they care.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Football. Go Blue!
