We kick off our Real Humans: MBA Students series, in which first-year MBA candidates share their admissions journeys and program insights, in North Carolina with the UNC Kenan-Flagler MBA Class of 2028.
The members of the new class bring a range of experiences and aspirations to Chapel Hill, united by a shared commitment to leadership, collaboration, and creating meaningful impact. To start, Alonso Arzola arrived from Mexico City after a decade as an architect leading commercial real estate projects, with plans to launch a sustainable real estate development firm. Then, Vrithika Rachel Joseph transitioned from accounting to product management and now hopes to build technology products and advise organizations through consulting while fostering cross-cultural connections.
We also meet Asia Brannon, a dual MD/MBA student, who is combining her clinical training with business education to improve healthcare delivery and eventually lead a hospital system or her own medical practice. Maren Rule draws on experience in correctional mental health and healthcare consulting as she pursues a career to expand access to behavioral healthcare. Additionally, Matthew Brady brings a uniquely interdisciplinary background spanning chemistry research, semiconductors, national security, and defense acquisition, and is using his MBA to explore investing in and implementing energy transition solutions. Finally, Ronniel Munoz Betances is leveraging his accounting and consulting experience from E&Y and Deloitte to pivot into real estate investment banking while remaining committed to mentoring first-generation students and advancing inclusion.
Together, their diverse professional paths, global perspectives, and ambitious career goals reflect the collaborative, purpose-driven spirit of the UNC Kenan-Flagler MBA Class of 2028. Get to know their stories in the following pages.
