Why Rady? An MBA Student Perspective

“Why did you decide to earn your MBA at Rady?” is the most frequently asked question I have received since my experience in the U.S. began less than two years ago. Because of the prestigious reputation of UC San Diego, because of the innovativeness and entrepreneurism of a new business school, because of the collaboration and cultural diversity in the cohorts and because of the unparalleled climate and gorgeous beaches were all common answers I gave as a first-year student at Rady. But now, finishing up my second and final year, I have even more to talk about.

At Rady, you have the honor of attending a Nobel Laureate Harry Markowitz’s class. Not one class, but an entire quarter course. If you do excellent in his class, he is even willing to provide references for your career. In addition to learning exceptional knowledge and skills, I am enlightened by knowing how amiable and humble he is.

At Rady, you can become a member of Vistage Program, which provides students with networking opportunities and mentoring by executives from big companies across industries. You even have the chance to sit among CEOs on a regular basis to talk leadership and personal development together. My conversations with them and hearing their stories has taught me the value and effort behind each step to their successes and how these lessons can be applied to my own career.

At Rady, you also have the opportunity to work in the Beyster Institute, a consulting firm established by Dr. Beyster, founder of SAIC. It maintains an active consulting practice, advising companies on the design and implementation of ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan). The institute hires Rady students exclusively and gives them the ground to apply and advance their knowledge of finance, accounting, marketing and organizational development in a real-world environment. I found it to be a delight to work with the Beyster team, the consultants and seniors as they are all approachable and friendly. The Beyster Institute is a connector that bridges the gap between my MBA academic schooling and the real business world.

Lastly, at Rady you join a close-knit, supportive community. I learned that professors will become your friends and join your happy hours, you go surfing directly after class with just 15-minute walk and you study in a student lounge with the world’s best ocean view. At Rady… I have found, learned and experienced more than I can tell.

Emily (Na) Wei (’15) is a full-time MBA student at the Rady School of Management. Prior to moving to the U.S. to attend the Rady School, she received her B.B.A. and M.S. in accounting from Shanghai Jiao Tong University in Shanghai City, China.

Want to learn more about Rady’s MBA experience? Download our eBook featuring student and alumni insights on why they chose Rady, where Rady alumni work, the top benefits for Rady students and more.