The culture of the Foster School of Business is characterized by a strong sense of community in which every MBA student has their own story. The MBA Ambassador program is designed to introduce prospective students to the Foster community. Full-Time MBA Ambassadors share their perspectives regarding admission, classes, faculty, and life as an MBA student.
Connect with Full-Time MBA Ambassadors
- Chat: Get to know our Full-Time MBA Student Ambassadors. Connect one on one via email or attend a Student Connection event on Zoom. Sign up on the Admissions Events page.
- Visit: Attend a Full-Time MBA Shadow Day hosted by a Foster Full-Time MBA student ambassador or have coffee with a current student. Sign up on the Admissions Events page.
- Connect with an Alumnus: Find out what life is like after the Foster MBA. Start the conversation with an alumnus via email.
- Connect with Veteran MBAs: Learn about our strong veteran community and veteran MBA success. Connect with an MBA Veteran via email.
- Diversity at Foster: Speak with the Diversity Outreach Coordinator and current MBA or our Director of Diversity and Inclusion to learn more about our community.
Meet Our Full-Time MBA Student Ambassadors
Felipe Reyna
Hometown: Austin, Texas
Pre-MBA Job: Strategic Account Manager
Desired Post-MBA Industry: Product Management in Tech
Email Felipe Reyna
Why you chose Foster: My decision to choose the Foster School of Business was multi-faceted, grounded in its reputation as a top-tier MBA institution and its strategic location in the Pacific Northwest. The school’s high academic caliber was complemented by its close connections with iconic companies in the region, particularly in the tech industry. Being situated in one of the most beautiful parts of the country added to the appeal. However, what truly set Foster apart for me was its outstanding career management system, consistently ranked among the best in the country, with a proven track record of facilitating top-tier job placements. This was a crucial factor as I aimed for a seamless transition into a Product Management role within tech giants such as Google, Microsoft, and Amazon. The school’s strong ties to these industry leaders aligned perfectly with my career aspirations, making Foster the ideal choice for me to not only gain a high-quality MBA education, but also to forge meaningful connections and pathways into the tech sector.
Advice to prospective students: Enjoy the application process during the pre-MBA networking phase! Immersing myself in the community of my preferred schools not only filled me with excitement but also provided invaluable networking opportunities. Establishing connections with individuals who shared my aspirations during those pre-MBA exploration and networking sessions has proven to be instrumental. Even now, I maintain strong friendships with people I encountered in those pre-MBA journeys, highlighting the enduring value of building connections early in the application process.
What clubs are you involved in: Tech Club, Consulting Club, GBA, Net Impact, and Level Up.
Phitchaya Phansopha
Hometown: Bangkok, Thailand
Pre-MBA Job: Financial Data Foundation Specialist, Decarbonization Project Lead
Desired Post-MBA Industry: Technology, Sustainability, Retails, Cleantech
Email Phitchaya Phansopha
Why you chose Foster: My pursuit of aligning my short-term and long-term career goals, centered around enhancing my business acumen and leadership competencies, finds its perfect match in the Foster MBA program. The comprehensive curriculum, abundant resources, and vast opportunities at Foster perfectly complement my aspirations. Measurability is a key aspect of my vision, and Foster’s course will empower me with the ability to make data-driven decisions with reduced uncertainty, fostering employee awareness. Also, the ESG specialization will immerse me in real-world challenges related to environmental issues, a vital skill for my future role as a CSO with the expertise needed to lead teams, refine concepts, and optimize long-term business strategies. The Environmental Innovation Practicum presents an exciting opportunity to explore innovative ideas for creating environmentally conscious workplaces, aligning with my passion for sustainability. I eagerly anticipate gaining inspiration from the Foster Technology Club, and the combined support from the MBA Career Management Office, Mentor Program, and Foster Network will pave the way for me to collaborate with companies sharing my vision, ultimately propelling me toward a successful leadership role. With all these elements in play, the Foster School of Business promises transformative experiences and boundless opportunities for growth.
Advice to prospective students: For prospective students, embarking on an educational journey entails careful goal setting, extensive program research, and diligent planning. Cultivate a strong network early on, connecting with students, alumni, and faculty for invaluable insights. Develop excellent organizational and time management skills to efficiently balance academic commitments and personal life. Seek guidance from mentors and advisors and embrace diversity within your academic community. Take initiative, whether through research or extracurricular activities, and stay curious, committed to lifelong learning. Maintain a work-life balance to prioritize well-being and perseverance when faced with challenges. Regularly reflect on progress, adapt strategies, and contribute to your academic and local communities. Above all, relish the journey, celebrating achievements while keeping long-term goals in focus as you navigate the path to personal and professional growth. See you at Foster 🙂
What clubs are you involved in: Technology, Net Impact, Marketing, Strategy, and Data & Analytics Club.
Matthew O’Connor
Hometown: Middletown, NY
Pre-MBA Job: Physical Therapist
Desired Post-MBA Industry: Healthcare Consulting
Email Matthew O’Connor
Why you chose Foster: I chose Foster because UW has a strong sense of community and because everyone I talked to before I got here was knowledgeable, friendly, and always made time to talk about the program. Foster also has a great reputation for consulting and it puts a lot of effort and resources into internship recruiting. Every step along the way I’ve felt supported by both the program staff and my classmates. I’ve also always loved the PNW and it’s great to be running, hiking, and biking in Seattle!!
Advice to prospective students: Don’t be afraid to rely on your friends and classmates. It can be overwhelming at first being in a new place, 100 new classmates, internship recruiting, company visits, and a never ending academic to-do list, but everyone here is in the same situation. The best way to be successful is to ask for help when you need it and offer help when you can.
What clubs are you involved in: Foster Consulting Society, Tech Club, C4C, Healthcare and Biotech Association
Chirag Chinmay
Hometown: Bhubaneshwar, India
Pre-MBA Job: Semiconductor Research
Desired Post-MBA Industry: Technology / Semiconductor Consulting
Email Chirag Chinmay
Why you chose Foster: My decision to join this program was a straightforward one, thanks to the small class sizes, the convenient location, and the strong sense of community. The second-year students, alumni, and the career management team I interacted with were not just welcoming but also offered invaluable support and motivation as I made my choice. The chance to learn from such intelligent, knowledgeable individuals with diverse backgrounds was an opportunity I couldn’t afford to pass up.
Advice to prospective students: Engage fully in the program; there’s constantly something intriguing happening. Always make an effort to attend events, network, and connect with people. The individuals within this community are truly exceptional. Have conversations with them about their experiences, and you’ll find they are more than willing to guide you in shaping your own journey. Don’t be afraid to reach out – everyone here is eager to assist to the best of their abilities!
What clubs are you involved in: Foster Consulting Club, Foster Technology Club, Global Business Association, Challenge 4 Charity.
Hattie Liu
Hometown: Toronto, Canada
Pre-MBA Job: Investor Relations Analyst
Desired Post-MBA Industry: Consulting
Email Hattie Liu
Why you chose Foster: I chose Foster for a few a couple of reasons. First, Foster is uniquely situated in the Pacific Northwest, where the rapidly evolving economic dynamic offers abundant opportunities for career growth. Second, Foster’s close-knit community allows people to connect on a personal level. I’ve met some of the most amazing people and friends here. Lastly, the faculty at Foster really care about your success and will support you along this exciting journey.
Advice to prospective students: Think clearly about what you want to get out of the MBA experience and reach out to alumni, faculty and fellow prospective students for information. You’re not in this journey alone. Don’t overthink it – just be your authentic self and put into the effort, and you will find the right place.
What clubs are you involved in: Foster Consulting Society, Strategy Club, Tech Club.
Hien Nguyen
Hometown: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Pre-MBA Job: Strategic Account Manager, Amazon
Desired Post-MBA Industry: Technology
Email Hien Nguyen
Why you chose Foster: What distinguishes Foster is its dedication to nurturing leadership and its unwavering focus on academic excellence. This focus enables me to grasp the intricate dynamics of businesses. Seattle’s position as a technology epicenter offers an unparalleled opportunity for me to immerse myself in the heart of technological advancements and digital innovation.
Advice to prospective students: An MBA marks the beginning of a new chapter in your life. Be thoroughly prepared to absorb new knowledge, learn from peers, and access thousands of opportunities. Everyone within this tight-knot community understands the challenges you’ve faced and is always ready to lend a helping hand whenever you need it.
What clubs are you involved in: Foster Technology Club, Strategy Club, Foster Consulting Society, Marketing Association, Women in Business.
Manmeet Singh Behl
Hometown: Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir, India
Pre-MBA Job: Product Manager in Agri/Poultry Industry
Desired Post-MBA Industry: Consulting and Tech
Email Manmeet Singh Behl
Why you chose Foster: Because of the people here at Foster. I had many meetings with Foster students through my journey of applying for MBA at Foster to getting an admit and throughout this journey, all the Foster students I connected with were really helpful and kind. I really liked the community of Foster and could truly see the tight knit cohort that Foster is famous for. I really connected with the values Foster “fostered :)”. Also having friends and family in or close to city of Seattle really helped me solidify my decision to get my MBA at Foster.
Advice to prospective students: Think about your ‘Why’s very well and have many of those Why questions. Why MBA, Why Foster, Why Seattle, Why Tech, Why Consulting, Why Product Management, Why US, etc. You are not applying to just get admitted, you are committing yourself for the next 2 years to a course, to a school, to a city, to a community, so think deeply about those questions!!
What clubs are you involved in: Foster Consulting Society, Tech Club, C4C, LevelUp.
Mehak Sandhu
Hometown: New Delhi, India
Pre-MBA Job: Product Strategist, Merchandise and Accessories
Desired Post-MBA Industry: CPG, Consulting
Email Mehak Sandhu
Why you chose Foster: An MBA is not just a degree, it is a personal and professional growth accelerator. I wanted an environment that thrives on collaboration, experiential learning, and leadership development. Foster delivers on all fronts with its ‘learn by doing’ philosophy with ample opportunities to learn, grow and succeed. But what truly sealed the deal for me was the close-knit community that wholeheartedly supports your journey and the thriving corporate landscape of Seattle.
Advice to prospective students: Don’t treat this journey as an isolated process! Reach out to people and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Have a strong support system of friends, mentors and people who believe in your success. These relationships can be invaluable on your academic journey. And, above all, keep an open mind to new experiences and explore the possibilities!
What clubs are you involved in: Women in Business, Consulting Society, Technology Club.
Shilpa Grace Shalomi
Hometown: Hyderabad, India
Pre-MBA Job: Healthcare IT (Product)
Desired Post-MBA Industry: Consulting
Email Shilpa Grace Shalomi
Why you chose Foster: I selected Foster for its distinguished faculty and dynamic community that promotes networking and collaboration. The intimate class size fosters a strong sense of unity and shared learning. Plus, its prime location adds to its overall appeal.
Advice to prospective students: Don’t worry and tackle challenges one step at a time. Embrace the journey and explore your options, because at Foster, we create a tight-knit community where you’ll never feel lost. Reach out to anyone here, and you’ll find unwavering support on your journey to success. Remember, you’ve got this!
What clubs are you involved in: Foster Consulting Society, Healthcare and Biotechnology Association.
Shubham Chaudhary
Hometown: Roorkee, India
Pre-MBA Job: Analytics Consultant, Accenutre
Desired Post-MBA Industry: Strategy Consulting and Product Management
Email Shubham Chaudhary
Why you chose Foster: I selected Foster due to its intimate class sizes, ideal location, and strong emphasis on community involvement, embodying a genuine commitment to enhancing the well-being of humanity.
Advice to prospective students: For prospective students, here’s a piece of advice: Reach out to current students to understand why Foster might be the right fit for you. Before you even join our community, start thinking about how you can make a difference and contribute positively to Foster once you’re here. It’s more than just choosing a school; it’s a chance to pave your path and give back.
What clubs are you involved in: Foster Consulting Society, Tech Club, Entrepreneurship and Venture Capital Club, and Healthcare and Biotechnology Club.