Gabrielle (Gabby) Antonelli

University of Virginia, Darden School of Business

“Foodie with a side of outdoor adventures, family time, and belly laughs with friends.”

Hometown: Chevy Chase, MD

Fun Fact About Yourself: I’m a classically trained pianist!

Undergraduate School and Major: University of Maryland; Major: Finance; Minors: Spanish + Sustainability

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Senior Business Analyst at Hungryroot

What makes the case method so attractive as a means to learn and become a better manager? The case method allows you to learn while doing. You’re taking part in real business conversations with your classmates and making decisions about real business situations. The Darden classroom does a great job simulating what our professional life will look like post-Darden.

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? A key part of Darden’s programming that brought me here was the faculty. Whatever you’ve heard about the faculty here – they’re better. They push you to think and grow in such a fun way. I’ve only been here for a few weeks and feel miles more knowledgeable and capable than when I started.

What course, club, or activity excites you the most at Virginia Darden? Darden Cup! I love being able to channel my inner kid with friendly competition and by getting outside. The first event, Lawn Games, was so fun, and I can’t wait for more!

Looking at your recruitment, what was the moment when you realized Darden was the right program for you? Why? I realized Darden was the right program for me when I came to visit Darden Days and noticed how all the people recruiting for similar roles were still so supportive of each other. I was seeking a collaborative environment, and I truly feel like I have found it!

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: It was making the leap from working at a secure finance job to working at a startup in the food space. I’m not always the biggest risk taker so I’m really proud of myself for making this move – and it paid off!

What is your unique quality that will enable you to make a big contribution to the Class of 2026? Why? I believe my unique quality is making connections and building community. The Class of 2026 is extremely diverse in terms of where we are from and what we did before Darden. I hope to contribute by connecting people who may not have otherwise met and helping to create a positive, inclusive environment!

What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into Virginia Darden’s MBA program? My biggest piece of advice is to really understand the unique program UVA has to offer and make a compelling case for why that fits into your personal and professional goals. Darden is very special – from the case method to the strong core curriculum to life in Charlottesville. If you’re excited about the opportunities Darden has to offer, really highlight that so it’s clear why you’d be such a great fit here!

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