Blake Sanchez

“Film enthusiast, innovation-lover, woodcarver, and aspiring change-maker impacting the world”

Hometown: San Clemente, California

Fun Fact About Yourself: While in community college, I created a short film with my high school friends about a kid who struggles to fit into a new school. Beyond the story, it was most important to me to capture who I hung out with and how we acted as a group through the bloopers.

Undergraduate School and Major: UC Riverside, business administration with a concentration in marketing

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Wheldon Psychological Services, office assistant

What were some of the key motivating factors behind pursuing your MBA, and why did this seem like the right time for you?

Pursuing my MBA felt like the right step because I’m driven to become a producer and executive in the film industry while also building a nonprofit. To achieve both, I need a deeper understanding of how businesses operate, how to scale them effectively, and how to create a network that supports growth. This MBA will equip me with the tools to launch and expand my own ventures and assist me in helping others do the same.

What are one or two key aspects of this MBA program that stood out among the others, and why were they so important to you?

Two aspects of the UCR MBA program that stood out to me were the strong alumni presence in the industry I’m pursuing and the program’s emphasis on STEM. The alumni network provides valuable connections and insights, while the STEM focus will help me develop critical problem-solving skills and a more innovative approach to managing business challenges.

What club, activity, or experience at the school have you most enjoyed so far, and why?

I thoroughly enjoyed the Mt. Rubidoux hike during welcome week because it allowed me to connect with fellow students while exploring a new area. This experience fostered new friendships and made the transition into the program feel more welcoming and engaging.

What is your biggest accomplishment in your career so far?

The biggest accomplishment in my career so far is the work I’ve done with Wheldon Psychological Services, which allowed me to meaningfully contribute to the mental health field while developing my organizational and communication skills. I take pride in being part of a team that supports individuals and promotes mental well-being.

What is one thing you have recently read, watched, or listened to that you would highly recommend to other prospective MBAs? Why?

I recently read a Forbes article, “Don’t Believe Everything You Hear: The MBA is More Relevant than Ever,” written by Patrick Mullane. This article highlights the significance of an MBA in today’s economy, addressing both its value and the common argument about its expense, and making a compelling case as a worthwhile investment. The writer emphasizes how many MBA students come from nonbusiness backgrounds creating a diverse cohort where you can learn new problem-solving methods and gain fresh perspectives, which enriches the overall experience.

What are two things you have learned at your school that have surprised you so far – one academic and one non-academic?

One academic surprise I’ve encountered is realizing how crucial it is to both solve technical problems and communicate effectively. The way you approach conversations, including your tone and consideration for others’ perspectives, can be the key to avoiding conflict and completing tasks efficiently. On the non-academic side, I’ve been pleasantly surprised by how quickly a sense of community forms in the program despite most of us not knowing each other beforehand.

What has been the biggest epiphany you’ve gained about yourself or the world since you started your MBA program?

The biggest epiphany is the importance of embracing diverse perspectives and experiences. This understanding has shown me how crucial it is for effective communication and collaboration, leading to more innovative and inclusive solutions.

What advice would you give to help prospective MBAs as they look to gain admission into an MBA program?

When getting into an MBA program, you must start by thoroughly researching how the program aligns with your career goals and aspirations. Thereafter, you can share your dedication to achieving that career goal by actively pursuing relevant experiences that showcase your passion and ingenuity. Highlight specific ways you plan to use the program’s resources to achieve your goal. With a clear vision and consistent self-improvement, you’ll get into your chosen program.