Sarah Doss

University of Virginia, Darden School of Business

“Entrepreneurial adventurer, globe-trotting athlete, and relentless connector seeking to ignite change and innovation.”

Hometown: Richmond, VA

Fun Fact About Yourself: I played D1 squash at UVA.

Undergraduate School and Major: (

University of Virginia, B.A. in Economics

University of Virginia, Darden of School of Business

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Pre-MBA Intern at Blue Heron Capital, a growth equity firm focused on the healthcare and enterprise technology industries.

What makes the case method so attractive as a means to learn and become a better manager? The case method’s appeal lies in its ability to spark active engagement and thorough preparation for class. It offers practical, real-world learning that sharpens problem-solving skills – vital for effective management, where concise communication is key. This approach replicates actual business scenarios, refining my managerial abilities. The collaborative nature of the case method facilitates diverse perspectives, enabling me to learn from peers. I’m captivated by its immersive and interactive design, foreseeing its role in enhancing both communication and problem-solving capabilities, crucial for my future managerial journey.

Aside from cases and classmates, what was the key part of Virginia Darden’s MBA programming that led you to choose this business school and why was it so important to you? The Batten Institute for Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Technology played a pivotal role in my choice of Darden. While I recognized the value of rigorous classes and the case method in shaping my entrepreneurial aspirations, what truly sealed the deal was my exploration of the diverse entrepreneurial programs and support offered by the Batten Institute. It became clear that Darden was the MBA program offering me the ideal platform to launch my own venture. Conversations with two Batten Institute professors, Jason Brewster and MJ Toms, further affirmed this path.

What course, club, or activity excites you the most at Virginia Darden? Entrepreneurship & Venture Capital club because it is my dream to start my own business. What has been your first impression of the Darden MBA students and alumni you’ve met so far.

Tell us your best Darden story so far. I was genuinely impressed by the warmth of the Darden community. When I visited last August, coming from NYC, I was taken aback by how talkative and genuinely enthusiastic everyone was to connect and welcome me. Having been in the hustle of NYC for two years, I almost forgot the charm of UVA’s friendly environment. It was a breath of fresh air to experience that sense of belonging again, especially considering the community gaps due to the pandemic’s impact on work experiences.

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: One of my standout achievements in my career was at Wells Fargo, where I joined the multifamily affordable housing division in commercial real estate finance. Initially, I handled analyst duties alongside senior underwriters. Within a year, I became a key contact for our main client, The Related Companies. I dedicated extra time to master underwriting, streamlining the process for senior underwriters’ review before credit approval. Over two years, I established myself and successfully managed complex credit facilities, contributing to expanding affordable housing. This experience, coupled with my commercial real estate and venture capital background, fuels my enthusiasm for the Darden MBA. It’s not just a career milestone; it’s a stepping stone toward my entrepreneurial goals.

What do you hope to do after graduation (at this point)? Starting my own business or Venture Capital firm.

What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into Virginia Darden’s MBA program? Network with current Darden students, alumni, professors, and admissions committee to learn why you’d be a good fit at Darden and how you can best utilize their world class resources.

DON’T MISS: MEET VIRGINIA DARDEN’S MBA CLASS OF 2025