MBA Concentration: Finance
Hometown: Long Beach, CA
Undergraduate Major: Biology
I'm Dylan, an MBA/MSDS candidate at Willamette University. In my time at Willamette, I have gained extensive experience in data analysis and finance. A passion marks my academic journey for data, strategic business decision-making and an overall love of learning.
I decided on Atkinson because it is ranked as Oregon's top MBA program and has exceptional professors who are successful in their respective fields and passionate about teaching. Atkinson provides an environment where my voice as a student is valued and treated with fairness and respect. I also appreciate that Atkinson offered a traditional, in-person program, which aligns better with my preferred learning style.
In addition to catering to the student experience, Willamette has given me opportunities through projects to work with real-life clients. Just in the first year of the program, I have been able to play critical roles in the following projects: `
These experiences have honed my data analysis and strategic planning skills and reinforced the value of applying rigorous academic insights to address real-world problems. Whether evaluating the financial health of a banking system, optimizing non-profit donor engagement, tackling social issues like youth homelessness, or exploring environmental studies through data science, each project has underscored the importance of data-driven decision-making in today's complex business and societal landscapes.
Additionally, my role in these projects went beyond analysis; it involved collaborating with teams, engaging with stakeholders, and presenting findings to audiences ranging from university professors to non-profit leaders and corporate executives. These interactions have sharpened my communication skills, enhanced my ability to work collaboratively, and deepened my understanding of the nuances of stakeholder engagement in different contexts.