Liz Janko, Luxury & Retail MBA 2025
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- Pronouns: she/her/hers
- Hometown: Cleveland, OH
- Undergraduate: Cleveland State University, BBA in Accounting
- Previous Industry: Financial Services
- Specializations: M&A, Business Valuations, FP&A
- Clubs/ Involvement: Graduate Marketing Association, Stern MBA Rugby Club
How did you find a sense of community and support within Stern?
My community started on day one of orientation, where we met all of the one-year focused MBA cohort, discovering the friends I would make. Building meaningful relationships and feeling comfortable at Stern is important to me, so accessing resources and getting involved in clubs I enjoy makes an impact academically and personally. My Stern support system involves, but is not limited to; the faculty, students, careers team, and student clubs.
What has been your favorite class at Stern?
My favorite class at Stern so far is Pricing with Joe Eberhardt. It is inspiring to learn from an adjunct professor who is an active President and CEO, bringing real-time case examples every day to the classroom. I enjoy his teaching and learning style throughout the coursework, applying different pricing theories through current events, simulations, and relevant projects.
Why did you choose NYU Stern?
NYU Stern offers one of the top MBA programs in the US with a specialized track in Luxury and Retail. The ability to pursue a one-year program with industry-leading professors in the heart of NYC alongside the diverse career resources and networking opportunities to explore different career paths. I knew I wanted to move to NYC, work in retail, and expand my breadth and depth of industry knowledge. NYU Stern checked off all those boxes for me and so much more than I ever anticipated.
What advice do you have for prospective students?
Live in the present moment and acknowledge every win. You work hard, study hours on end, and sometimes get frustrated, but stay motivated towards your vision and goals. Lean on your community and support system throughout the process.
How has Stern’s location in NYC impacted your experience?
Transitioning in my career from M&A and business valuations covering Consumer & Retail clients, I knew NYU Stern would provide the access to resources and exposure to discover my speciality and leverage my skillset.. Stern is at the pulse of market-leading trends and the thought leaders of future generations. With a focus in Luxury and Retail, NYC provides the opportunity to explore different paths and physically be inspired every time you walk on and off campus.