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Full-time MBA | Jason Blake

Jason Blake
Student Voices

Jason Blake, MBA 2023


  • Hometown
    San Diego, CA
  • Undergraduate
    School: University of San Diego
    Major: Finance
  • Previous Employer
    San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (Energy)
  • Summer Internship
    Summer Associate at Guggenheim Securities
  • Specializations at Stern
    Finance, Accounting, Sustainability & Innovation
  • Student Clubs
    Association of Hispanic & Black Business Students - VP of Admissions
    Stern Energy & Infrastructure Club - VP of Events
    Graduate Finance Association

What was your favorite class at Stern?

My favorite class to date was Modeling with Professor Gode. He really wants you to learn, as shown by the amount of homework he assigns. I hope to take more classes with him in my second year.

How did you find a sense of community and support within Stern?

I found a sense of community and support through my study group. We will be lifelong friends, and I feel fortunate to have had them by my side throughout the first year. 

What has been a highlight of your Stern experience?

The community. You have an entire team behind you rooting for your success from the day you walk in. Professors want to give you the tools to succeed in the workplace. Career Services challenge you to find your unconscious motivators and consider them when choosing a career. And your classmates are by your side, helping you with everything from mock interviews to statistics.

What are you most looking forward to in your MBA2 year?

I feel corny saying this, but learning. My first year at Stern is the first time I found classes interesting and engaging. I wish it wouldn't have taken so long, but they say it is better late than never.

How did you prepare for the program before you began?

Having been out of school for some time, I was worried about the quantitative courses. I took an MBA math prep course to refresh, which helped me get back into the "student" mindset.

What advice do you have for prospective students?

A few weeks into Professor Petit's Leadership in Organizations class, we did a listening exercise. The exercise required you to listen to a classmate without interrupting for several minutes. The experience taught me that everyone has a story and that by taking the time to listen genuinely, you can learn something from every one of your colleagues.

How has Stern’s location in NYC impacted your experience?

Stern's location is second to none. You can meet and interact with professionals in varying industries, from tech to finance, all between classes. And that's just on the career front. You also have access to everything else New York City has to offer!

Who is someone that has strongly influenced your time at Stern and your career search?

My girlfriend. She's helped me with everything from admissions essays to interview prep and has been by my side throughout the MBA journey. She's now my fiance. I'm a lucky guy.

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