Alejandra Chavez

Samuel Curtis Johnson Graduate School of Management, Cornell SC Johnson College of Business, Cornell University

“Adventurous; I love to travel. I’m highly creative, empathetic, and always ready to help others.”

Hometown: Lima, Peru

Fun Fact About Yourself: I am a little over 5 feet tall; however, I was captain of my high school basketball team.

Undergraduate School and Major: University of Lima, Business Administration

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Corporate Banking Relationship Manager at Banco de Credito del Peru

Aside from your classmates, what was the key part of Cornell’s MBA programming that led you to choose this business school and why was it so important to you? I chose Cornell Johnson’s MBA program for its exceptional academic curriculum and global perspective. The program’s comprehensive education in all key business functions stood out for me, providing a strong foundation for personal and professional growth. What truly excites me is the flexibility the program offers, allowing students to tailor their MBA journey through immersion and elective courses. This approach ensures I can focus on areas that align with my passions and career aspirations, preparing me to become an influential leader with a global mindset. For example, the Emerging Markets Institute is an opportunity to deepen my knowledge and participate in experiential learning. Cornell Johnson’s program aligns perfectly with my vision of making a meaningful impact in the ever-evolving business landscape.

What excites you the most about living in Ithaca and the Finger Lakes region? Living in Ithaca and the Finger Lakes region is exciting! The best part is being surrounded by nature. Weekends are going to be a lot of fun, whether I’m visiting beautiful waterfalls in the region or just relaxing with friends during a picnic in the parks. I’ve spent my whole life in a city packed with buildings, so this is a dream come true.

And let’s talk about food. Ithaca has some awesome places, such as the classic Ithaca Bakery. What really gets me excited is the idea of exploring the wine region. I can picture hanging out with friends, sipping wines and ciders and enjoying time off. Ithaca is going to be an adventure like no other!

What course, club or activity excites you the most at Cornell? I’m thrilled to be a part of the Women’s Management Council, which fosters a supportive community addressing vital issues concerning women. As a former adviser for women entrepreneurs in Peru, I’m eager to share my experiences and contribute to empowering my peers, ensuring these topics remain at the forefront of our collective vision.

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: Being a first-generation college graduate in my family is a truly significant and life-changing achievement. It symbolizes a transformative journey of determination and perseverance, where I overcame various obstacles to reach my educational goals. This accomplishment not only fulfills my personal aspirations but also sets an inspiring precedent for future generations in my family, showing them that with dedication and hard work, anything is possible. For that reason, I take immense pride in being part of the class of 2025. This milestone has opened doors to a world of opportunities, empowering me to make a positive impact on my life and the lives of those around me.

What do you hope to do after graduation at this point? My goal is to be an investment banking associate at a top global bank, leveraging my expertise in emerging markets in Latin America. By combining these skills with those acquired in investment banking, I envision myself as an adviser or investor for Latin American companies in the future.

What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into Cornell’s MBA program? To maximize your chances of admission, it’s crucial to recognize the significance of both your personal and professional experiences. Value each of these experiences, as they shape your unique story. When crafting your application, strive to present your journey in the most compelling way possible. Emphasize your personality, core values, and aspirations, allowing the admissions committee to understand the real you and why you are the best candidate for Cornell.

Additionally, demonstrate your genuine interest in the school. Take the opportunity to connect with students, alumni, and admissions representatives. Attend information sessions, campus tours, or virtual events. Engaging with the community showcases your commitment to the institution and illustrates that you are genuinely excited about the prospect of becoming a part of Cornell’s community.