Olivia Brown

What I was doing before the MBA program: 

Before my graduate program, I completed my bachelor’s at RWU with a major in Management and a minor in Data Analytics.  I also completed a core concentration in Dance.  During my undergrad at RWU, I was a member of the Hawkettes Dance Team and was the secretary last year.  I also participated in Dance Club all 3 years.  I plan to participate in both of these groups during my grad year as well. This summer I spent my break in Wells, Maine, working at a local restaurant to enjoy the summer in a beach town. I was able to take the summer to spend time with friends and family before returning to Rhode Island for the semester! 

My future plans: 

My future plans after the MBA are to explore my options for full time jobs or internships as well as possibly head back up to Wells, Maine, for the summer.  I’m hoping that, throughout my MBA experience, I have the chance to make connections and explore future possibilities and interests! 

My favorite part of my student experience at RWU: 

My favorite part of my student experiences at RWU has been performing with the Hawkettes Dance Team.  Not only has this team given me a space to continue doing what I love, but it has brought me so many friendships, experiences, and memories that I will cherish for the rest of my life. Through this team, I have met some of my best friends who have become family. Being able to look forward to going to the studio after a long day of classes has been extremely helpful in college as a way to break away from studying and homework. I feel that having a good school and fun balance during college is a great way to enjoy the college experience, but also learn important skills such as time management, communication skills, and how to work as a team in various situations. 

Best advice for students planning to go to graduate school: 

For those planning to go to graduate school, I would say the best advice is to believe in yourself. For some, the expectation of graduate school is harder work and a heavier workload.  While I may just be starting my own graduate experience, I have also talked with some of the previous students of the program who have told me this graduate school is more like a family. Use your time in graduate school to build relationships, put yourself out there, and take risks. This is the time to push yourself and try new things. But while you may be trying to focus on getting good grades, don’t forget to have fun! Take time in your schedule for yourself. Everyone in this program wants to see you succeed and you can’t do that without having a little fun here and there! 

Favorite things to do in the area: 

My favorite things to do in the area would be enjoying the last of the summer weather at the beach whenever possible.  During the fall semester, I like to go out and enjoy all the fall festivities, from apple picking to exploring the wineries and breweries in the area.  During the winter, I always enjoy spending time with friends inside watching movies with hot chocolate or going out to Newport.  In the spring, Colt State Park is always a great way to get out after a long winter and start enjoying the warmer weather. Throughout the school year, my friends and I will enjoy a night out on the town and head over to local bars and restaurants such as Aidan’s or Portside or grab brunch on Sunday mornings!