Hailey Innocent

University of North Carolina, Kenan-Flagler Business School

“I am a flamingo; bold, curious, resilient, lively and I thrive with a flock!”

School: UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School

Hometown:  I grew up in south-east Florida, but Charlotte, North Carolina has been my home the last six years.

Fun Fact About Yourself:  I am recently engaged. I am looking forward to my wedding after graduation!

Undergraduate School and Major:

University of Florida, Bachelor of Design

Most Recent Employer and Job Title:

Perkins Eastman, Interior Designer

Aside from your classmates, what was the key part of Kenan-Flagler’s MBA curriculum or programming that led you to choose this business school and why was it so important to you?

I am deeply passionate about the built environment, and I was drawn to UNC Kenan-Flagler’s holistic approach to real estate programming. Outside of the classroom, there are opportunities to connect with the industry through the Leonard W. Wood Center for Real Estate Studies and participate in experiences like the Real Estate Fund, case competitions and career treks.

What has been your first impression of the Kenan-Flagler MBA students and alumni you’ve met so far?

UNC Kenan-Flagler MBA students and alumni are incredibly impressive, inspiring and accessible. The culture is rooted in community and support.

In April, I attended UNC Kenan-Flagler’s Real Estate Conference with a few other incoming MBA students concentrating in real estate. It was thrilling to be in a room with 950 professionals and industry leaders. None of those in the incoming class expected to be, or were prepared for when, the Wood Center director had us stand up to introduce us to the room! This warm welcome was both a pleasant surprise and consistent with the Carolina Way. The following connections I made have been very meaningful.

What course, club or activity excites you the most at Kenan-Flagler?

I am incredibly excited about the Global Immersion Electives and the opportunities to learn abroad. Exposure to different cultures, environments and processes is critical in understanding the complex problems of today. I look forward to sharing these experiences with my talented classmates.

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far:

My biggest career accomplishment, outside of seeing projects I have designed realized, was being named to the Future’s Council, an advisory group to the executive committee, at Perkins Eastman.

What do you hope to do after graduation?

After graduation I hope to continue my career in the built environment, seeing robust and sustainable communities realized as a real estate developer.

What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into Kenan-Flagler’s MBA program?

My advice first and foremost is to be authentic in everything you do and truly understand your motivation for an MBA. Don’t be hesitant to get in contact with current students and express your enthusiasm for the program! UNC Kenan-Flagler MBAs are genuine and helpful.