David Driskell is pursuing his MBA at Imperial College Business School

David Driskell 

Imperial College Business School 

Hometown: Atlanta, Georgia, USA

Fun Fact About Yourself: I’ve drunk the world’s most expensive cup of coffee (Kopi Luwak) on top of the tallest building in the world: the Burj Khalifa in Dubai.

Undergraduate School and Major: Berry College, BS in Accounting & Marketing

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: FinQuery, Senior Product Owner

What were some of the key motivating factors behind pursuing your MBA, and why did this seem like the right time for you? I reached a point in my career where I thoroughly enjoyed my responsibilities but no longer felt challenged in my workplace. In pursuit of a more strategic business acumen—which I call the “CEO mindset”—I decided it was time to further my education. Having spent my entire career in the United States, I was particularly motivated to gain an international business perspective by pursuing my MBA in the United Kingdom. This opportunity allows me to challenge myself, reflect on my career trajectory, and identify future challenges I want to tackle.

What have been your first impressions of the Imperial MBA students and alumni you’ve met so far? Tell us your best Imperial story. The alumni network has been one of the most supportive communities I’ve encountered. Everyone I’ve met is not only willing to help current students but genuinely eager to be involved. One of my favorite events so far was an MBA-specific alumni networking event. Current students sat at round tables with alumni who shared expertise in their industries, and after a set time we rotated to meet others. I made meaningful connections with outstanding individuals—from FinTech founders to experts at Big Four consulting firms.

Let’s be real, many networking events can feel like swarms of students vying for attention. At Imperial’s events, this is not the case. Everyone is genuinely excited to meet and support each other in their professional journeys.

Aside from your classmates, what were one or two key aspects of Imperial’s MBA program that led you to choose this Business School, and why were they so important to you? The program stands out for its dynamic curriculum, which shapes future leaders across diverse fields. Many prestigious programs are known for molding students into specific finance or consulting roles to boost employability. By contrast, Imperial’s supports students in a wide array of interdisciplinary endeavors. While many launch successful careers in finance or consulting, others excel in entrepreneurship, family businesses, venture capital, product management, and beyond.

What makes London such a great place to earn an MBA? London is the best city in the world and a true epicenter of global business. It’s one of the few places where you can have a morning call with Tokyo and an evening call with Silicon Valley—all in the same day. London’s thriving tech startup scene fosters innovation, making it an ideal place for aspiring business leaders.

Additionally, 50% of the value of an MBA lies in the network you build. Where you choose to build that network matters. London offers a truly international environment, providing connections that can benefit your career for decades to come.

What module, club, or activity excites you the most at Imperial? The Imperial Enterprise Lab is particularly exciting, as it connects brilliant minds to foster innovation. It provides invaluable support to aspiring entrepreneurs at every stage of their ventures.

For early-stage ideas, the Lab offers feedback opportunities through “idea surgeries,” where students pitch concepts and receive input from industry professionals. More mature startups gain exposure through investor pitches, and the Lab even provides free support with everything from design to legal patent support. The breadth of resources offered to budding innovators is truly astounding, and Imperial does not take any of the Intellectual Property. 

Looking at your admissions process, what was the moment when you realized Imperial was the right program for you? Why? I knew Imperial was the right fit when I visited the campus during the application process. The atmosphere was buzzing with energy—students were genuinely dedicated to challenging themselves and pushing boundaries. Imperial’s innovative emphasis was palpable. Whether at the South Kensington or White City campus, there’s always something exciting happening, making it an ideal environment for growth and learning.

What are two things you have learned at your School that have surprised you so far—one academic and one non-academic? Academically, one of our professors taught Accounting from the perspective of future business leaders. Beyond demystifying financial statements, she showed us how CFOs strategically manage earnings to influence investor perceptions—insights that are invaluable for leadership roles.

Non-academically, I’ve realized the unparalleled importance of building a supportive network. My personal motto has become “People over process.” While processes are valuable, trusting and fostering relationships with the right people has far greater long-term impact.

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far. My greatest achievement has been advancing from Junior Business Analyst to Senior Product Owner within four years at my previous company. Throughout this time, I worked relentlessly to maximize my impact on the company while also mentoring and empowering my peers. This growth not only allowed me to achieve a 120% salary increase but taught me the importance of continually striving to add value to those around me.

Looking ahead one year, what would make your MBA experience successful? A successful MBA experience would mean walking away with newfound knowledge and the drive to re-enter the workforce with confidence. I also hope to build and nurture relationships that will continue to grow over the years.

It’s important for me to create an impact beyond my own experience. As President of the Dean’s Student Advisory Council, I aim to leave a positive, lasting legacy that benefits both my current cohort and future students.

What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into Imperial’s MBA? If you’re passionate about leadership, Imperial College Business School’s MBA programme is for you. You don’t need to have every step planned out, but you should set clear, strategic goals for how you intend to grow and contribute.

Your MBA journey is not just about personal achievement—it’s about championing others and fostering a culture of excellence. Highlight examples from your professional or personal life where you’ve supported peers, held teams to higher standards, or worked toward a collective goal. Align your aspirations with Imperial’s mission and let your authenticity shine. Remember, they’re looking for personable leaders—people who are both relatable and inspiring.

DON’T MISS: MEET THE ENTIRE IMPERIAL COLLEGE MBA CLASS OF 2025