My family is originally from Sudan, we moved to the US when I was a toddler and I grew up in the D.C. area. I have a bachelor’s in economics from Wharton and I also minored in Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations—Arabic and Islamic Studies. After graduating, I moved to Dubai and worked for Citi’s Investment Banking team for two years, followed by three years in growth equity at Standard Chartered Private Equity. I came to Booth to gain additional skills, expand my network, and recruit back into private equity in the US.
I thought a lot about whether or not I wanted to go to business school, so much that I delayed my application by a full year. The two-year commitment and forgone income was a lot to consider. But after speaking to a number of trusted friends, family, and admired colleagues I realized the invaluable experience of an MBA. Among all my conversations and research, I found myself gravitating towards Booth. The alumni are extremely successful and they were so receptive to helping me and offering advice.
When I got to campus at the beginning of last year, I was excited about being in a classroom again. Booth’s academics are unparalleled and I appreciate the academic rigor that the school’s courses offer. I was also excited for the fact that my fellow classmates are not only successful professionals but intellectual and inherently curious—something you find everywhere at Booth.
Thinking about my career goals post-MBA, I want to go back into investing, whether it be in private equity or venture capital. The Polsky Center and the programming around the entrepreneurship concentration was a big draw for me. I knew I would get the support I needed to successfully recruit back into investing. I’m also involved in student clubs like Private Equity Group (PEG) and Entrepreneurship and Venture Capital Group (EVC), which are both very active in the space.
This year, I’m looking forward to being a co-chair for the African American MBA Association and cohort representative for the Graduate Business Council. There’s also the Epicurean Club and Booth Outdoor Leadership Development Group (BOLD) to keep me busy!
As soon as I was accepted to Booth, current students went out of their way to talk to me about my decision. And during my first year, other students helped me with classes and recruiting. I really appreciate the pay-it-forward culture at Booth and want to do my part to continue that legacy.
Can’t wait to share my Booth experiences with you over the next year!
