Alyssa Daniel

Columbia Business School

“The girl everyone knows is up to something, but no one knows what’s coming next.”

Hometown: Richmond, VA

Fun Fact About Yourself: I am the youngest of six siblings!

Undergraduate School and Major: Spelman College / Economics

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: HSR Ventures – MBA Intern

What makes New York City such a great place to earn an MBA? For the same reasons people perceive New York City as the city where anything is possible, I truly believe New York is unparalleled in the opportunities and access it uniquely provides to MBA students. No matter how broad your industry or how niche your focus, there are people, jobs, communities, and resources available in abundance in a way that you just won’t find anywhere else.

Aside from your classmates and location, what was the key part of Columbia Business School’s MBA curriculum programming that led you to choose this business school and why was it so important to you? Over the last few years, I have become captivated by the concept of luxury. When I wrote my CBS essays, I specifically called out my interest in exploring luxury and leveraging the connections Columbia has cultivated within the space. Since stepping foot on campus, I have not been disappointed. I have attended the most exquisite events, spoken with accomplished professionals, and had one-of-a-kind experiences that have only confirmed my choice to attend CBS. New York is a special place, and Columbia makes the most of it.

What course, club or activity excites you the most at Columbia Business School? Given my curiosity and passion for luxury, Columbia’s Retail & Luxury Goods Club has quickly become a favorite for me. I am constantly impressed with the way the club is managed and the people I have come to meet through it. Not to mention, its members and alumni are connected to some of the biggest names in luxury (i.e., Chanel, Cartier, Hermès, etc.), which has translated to amazing events and networking opportunities. I have also been able to take on a leadership position, which comes with its own perks and unique experiences—making my affinity for the organization that much deeper.

Looking at your recruitment, what was the moment when you realized Columbia Business School was the right program for you? Why? I will never forget—I attended Columbia Connect (Admitted Students Weekend), and I was at a small group dinner with two second-year students who happened to be good friends. Throughout the dinner, they shared personal anecdotes and memories from their first year at CBS. The energy between the two of them was electric. They spoke about the community at CBS like it was the best-kept secret among the top MBA programs. I remember an overwhelming sense of confirmation that Columbia was where I needed to be, and the very next day, I submitted my deposit!

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: Landing my role in private equity has probably been one of the biggest highlights of my career so far. I spent eight months working with a mentor to learn everything from financial modeling to deal diligence in preparation for interviews. When I eventually landed the role, I remember feeling so accomplished thinking about all the time and energy I had put into the process.

What do you hope to do after graduation? Honestly, I am figuring that out as I go. I feel confident that my prior work experience has provided me with enough valuable skills that I have options, but I am really trying to take my time exploring and cultivating my interests. Coming into the MBA, I remember saying to myself, ‘I want my next move to be my best move yet.’ For me, that means finding passion and purpose in my post-MBA career.

What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into Columbia Business School’s MBA program? Be authentic in your essay and lean into the things that make you unique. I really do believe that Columbia values business leaders who challenge status quos. When I look across my class, I see visionaries, thought leaders, and innovators of industries. While we appreciate conventional paths, many of us are pursuing new and unchartered territories. This shared value among us seems to be key to the fabric of what it means to be a CBS student.

DON’T MISS: MEET COLUMBIA BUSINESS SCHOOL’S MBA CLASS OF 2026