Chicago Booth Scholars Winnie Lui

What drew you to Chicago Booth for your MBA Experience?
I chose Chicago Booth for several reasons, such as its flexible curriculum, pay-it-forward culture, and The Chicago Approach. I really appreciate the opportunity to select classes that align with my interests such as the intersection between finance and technology. Specifically, I was interested in exploring product management as soon as I started at Booth. There was a lot of freedom to design my schedule how I wished and to dive deeper into new topics that I may not have considered before, such as entrepreneurship and behavioral science.

In addition, I love the pay-it-forward culture where Boothies do not hesitate to help one another out, whether it’s reviewing resumes, conducting practice interviews, launching businesses, or creating events for clubs. When I first visited Booth, I could immediately tell it was a very friendly, inclusive, and welcoming environment, where everyone can feel comfortable being their authentic selves. Moreover, Chicago Booth’s unique approach encourages me to apply a data-driven lens when tackling challenging problems and to have empathy when leading others.

Getting an MBA earlier in my career is important to me because I wanted to apply the skills I learn at school to the corporate world. An MBA would allow me to build out my expertise in management and leadership so I can positively influence others and motivate them to work towards a common goal. As I expand my interactions with distinguished professors, senior leadership, and talented peers, I can broaden my view of what companies care about and develop a holistic view of business such as metrics of success, employee retention, diversity, equity, inclusion, and more. By refining my analytical and communication skills through an MBA, I can become a more effective leader who can excel in and adapt to fast-paced environments.

What's your advice for deferred MBA program applicants?
A Booth MBA equips you with all the skills you need and then some! From classes to clubs, I’ve received an immense amount of support to enhance my knowledge and gain insight into various careers. Since I plan to go into product management, I have had great success working closely with Career Services and with my peers in clubs such as Booth Technology Group, Innovation & Design Club, Chicago Women in Business, and Booth Analytics Club. There is a seamless partnership between staff, faculty, and students, where any creative idea can become a reality. I have learned so much from taking classes like Developing New Products and Services Lab, Consumer Behavior, Technology Strategy, and Platform Competition, as well as attending the product management and product marketing manager workshops held by Booth Tech Group and the Kilts Marketing Center. There is no limit to what you can accomplish here on campus and everyone is open to implementing change for the better.

In the future, I hope an MBA will prepare me for a leadership role in a large company, where I can create an inclusive and collaborative environment. It is important to me to be a transformational and ethical leader, who can help others grow to be the best versions of themselves and help companies reach success and be at the forefront of innovation.