Meet The Berkeley Haas MBA Class of 2019

Tam Emerson 

U.C.-Berkeley, Haas School of Business

Describe yourself in 15 words or less: I am a passionate change agent who is dedicated to uplifting the most marginalized communities.

Hometown: Boston, MA

Fun Fact About Yourself: As a Colombia adoptee, I went back for my first time to visit in August 2016 and met the most incredible people.

Undergraduate School and Major: Wheelock College, STEM Elementary Education Teacher & Juvenile Justice

Employers and Job Titles Since Graduation: Executive Director, Eli J. & Phyllis N. Segal Citizen Leadership Program

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: I am very community-driven, having completed nearly three years of national service with City Year. In 2016, I was named one of the 100 Most Influential People in the Massachusetts Latino Community by El Planeta. I have spent the last five years building a leadership development program to support all versions of leadership and mentored countless young professionals, especially women of color, joined in opportunities to support local non-profits, and supported the incredible work of Project 351 in Massachusetts.

Looking back on your experience, what one piece of advice would you give to future business school applicants? Find the people in your life who will support you through the rollercoaster experience and keep you focused even when you are second-guessing yourself.

What was the key factor that led you to choose this program for your full-time MBA and why was it so important to you?  The Defining Principles of Haas (Question the Status Quo, Student Always, Beyond Yourself & Confidence Without Attitude) made it clear that this was a school that reflected my values. I wanted school to push me out of my comfort zone and the defining principles highlighted a school that would allow me to do this powerfully.

What would success look like to you after your first year of business school?  I can already tell that my classmates are incredible, so success will include developing strong relationships with them. Additionally, I hope to lead diversity, equity and inclusion work on campus in a way that will align me to do this work in my professional future.

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