Gianni Ross

University of Virginia, Darden School of Business

“Habitual and Sacrificial with a long-term goal of continued excellence.”

Hometown: Burr Ridge, IL

Fun Fact About Yourself: Picked up leather working to make my mom a purse for Mother’s Day.

Undergraduate School and Major: University of Virginia, Psychology major

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: ATP, Professional Tennis Player

What makes the case method so attractive as a means to learn and become a better manager? Typical learning environments do not mimic the real world like the case method does. It teaches you to think and work alongside others to tackle a communal challenge. The real learning happens in “doing” and the case method shines at bringing out the best in you, which translates exactly to what a good manager needs.

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 professors. They are widely considered as the best-of-the-best and it shows immediately when you step into the classroom. They want you to succeed, they care about your well-being, and they push you to the edge every day.

What course, club, or activity excites you the most at Virginia Darden? I’m excited about the Finance Club and the Soccer Club. The Finance Club enables me to work side-by-side with like-minded individuals in the industry where I plan to work. I also plan to participate in the Soccer Club because, as a former athlete, I always need a good healthy competition that pushes me physically.

Looking at your recruitment, what was the moment when you realized Darden was the right program for you? Why? Charlottesville is a second home to me. Being able to spend two more years at a place that is so special made Darden a very easy decision.

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: In my tennis career I had a few moments that still stick with me. One is beating Casper Ruud in the Junior French open. Another is being the clinching point to win a NCAA championship. Also, I beat Kyle Edmund during the first month of my Pro career. These are all up there for my biggest accomplishments.

What is your unique quality that will enable you to make a big contribution to the Class of 2026? Why? I’m a good guy who works hard. I really thrive in team situations because of that, and Darden is not shy about creating team scenarios. (Also, I can give good pointers to help fellow classmate’s tennis games)

What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into Virginia Darden’s MBA program? Be yourself and build a good work ethic. Authenticity will be the best way for you to excel in the interviews and figure out if you are a good fit for the Darden MBA. And it doesn’t hurt if you are also the hardest worker in the room.

DON’T MISS: MEET VIRGINIA DARDEN’S MBA CLASS OF 2026