Meet the Indiana Kelley MBA Class of 2018

Yazmin Nava

Indiana University, Kelley School of Business

Describe yourself in 15 words or less: I am a go-getter – ready to try anything once and to take on new challenges.

Hometown: Detroit, MI

Fun Fact About Yourself: After completing my Peace Corps service, I took on a 4-month solo backpacking trip through Central and South America.

Undergraduate School and Major: University of Michigan, Philosophy

Employers and Job Titles Since Graduation:

(Top to bottom by most recent)

• Franklin Energy Services – Project Analyst
• EcoWorks – AmeriCorps Green School Coordinator
• Peace Corps – Urban Youth Development Volunteer

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: During my time with Franklin Energy, I volunteered with the US Green Building Council as the Chair of the Emerging Professionals Committee for a local chapter. One of my greatest accomplishments was being able to incorporate my passion for sustainability and greener buildings into my work environment. I leveraged my connections within USGBC to integrate the LEED Rating System into one of our energy efficiency programs, increasing awareness about better sustainable practices among thousands of people.

Looking back on your experience, what advice would you give to future business school applicants? Take some time to figure out exactly where you want to end up in life and how an MBA will help you get there. Applying for business school can be a grueling process, understanding why you are going through it will give you motivation during the tougher times – it will also come in handy with essays and interviews. If you are having trouble, get inspiration from your friends and family by asking for feedback on your strengths, areas of improvement, and your general qualities; seeing yourself through their eyes can be really informative.

When preparing for the GMAT, follow your gut. There are a lot of prep courses out there, the difficult part is finding the one fits you and learning style. Don’t be afraid to switch to a new approach or course if the current one isn’t working for you.

What led you to choose this program for your full-time MBA? I think that everyone has their own criteria when evaluating their top choices. For me, I looked for a program that had a supportive environment, varied teaching styles, strong faculty and career services program, and a proven track record of developing top professionals. There was no doubt that the Kelley School of Business fit and surpassed my criteria.

Tell us about your dream job or dream employer at this point in your life? In my dream job, I will have the opportunity to foster growth in the team I oversee and in my peers, the authority to implement innovative process improvements, and the capacity to make a positive impact in the world.

What would you like your business school peers to say about you after you graduate from this program?  After graduation, I hope that my peers describe me as someone who provided support yet challenged them to aim higher.