Accepted: We’d like to get to know you! Where are you from? Where and what are you studying?
Danny: I am from West Bloomfield. I am a senior at the University of Michigan studying Business. I also have a passion for technology so have taken various computer science and product design classes over the years.
Accepted: Why did you choose Ross’s BBA program? How is it the best program for you?
Danny: I chose the Ross BBA program because of my interest in business from a young age. Ross was the best program for me because of its flexibility and variety of classes. While I knew I was interested in business, I had no idea what that really meant or what specifically I was interested in. Ross gave me the ability to figure this out.
Accepted: Which other programs had you considered when you were applying to schools a few years ago?
Danny: Computer Science, School of Information
Accepted: Now that you’re about to graduate, can you share some advice with students who are may be starting out their undergraduate careers in the fall? What do you wish you would’ve known before starting the BBA program?
Danny: It’s about way more than the grades. The people you meet and the experiences you share are more important and valuable than any single class or skill you learn.
Accepted: Can you share some job highlights with us? What are some of your most recent jobs?
Danny: Last summer, I worked at Lightbank, an early stage VC firm in Chicago. I did some traditional analyst work but I spent most of my time as a designer-in-residence.
Accepted: Do you have a post-graduation job lined up yet? What role (if any) did Ross’s career services department help you in this process?
Danny: Yes, I will be working at Trunk Club in Chicago as a Product Designer. Ross Career Services didn’t play any role directly (I recruited only off-campus) but I have done a few mock interviews/career workshops over the years.
Accepted: Do you plan on pursuing additional degrees?
Danny: Not in the near future, but it’s a possibility down the road. In my current field (technology/design), the degree you have is not as important as experience/skills. However, I could see myself going back to school to get an MBA eventually.
Accepted: Do you have any other tips for our applicants?
Danny: Figure out what you really want to do before applying. A genuine and honest application will get you further than anything else.
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You can read more about Danny’s journey by checking out his website, http://dannyfreed.com/, or by following him on Twitter (@dannyfreed). Thank you Danny for sharing your story with us – we wish you loads of luck!
Related Resources:
• The Quick Guide to Admissions Resumes
• Michigan Ross B-School Zone
• An IE Grad Reflects on Spain, School, and Career Searching