Andre Koo Technology and Entrepreneurship MBA | Abigail Lin

• Hometown: Bay Area, CA
• Undergraduate: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign - Finance
• Previous Industry: Tech Consulting
• Clubs/Involvement: Asian Business Society; Stern Technology Association; Arts Culture and Cuisine

In my previous role in technology consulting, I really enjoyed solving client problems and leveraging technology to their advantage. I knew that technology was always going to be my path, and when I learned about the focused program, I knew it was the right fit. The Tech MBA program consistently integrates technology across the curriculum, and honing that mindset was something I sought out. Overall, the program perfectly aligns with my career goals at the intersection of business and tech.

Given the smaller size of the class for the one-year program, it was easy to foster connections with everyone naturally. Our class has cultivated a culture of mutual support and collaboration, with everyone eager to help each other succeed. This culture means that assistance—whether in or outside of school—is just a message away, and everyone goes above and beyond to lend a hand. This supportive ecosystem is consistently nurtured with enthusiasm, as we all want to contribute to each other's growth and achievements.

One of the highlights was working on a consulting project for a real-world corporation through the experiential learning program. The company hosted our project group in their NYC office for the kickoff. During introductions, we were pleasantly surprised to find that the majority of the attendees were Stern alumni. Despite meeting for the first time, there was an instant sense of camaraderie and shared experience. This encounter vividly illustrated the strength and reach of the Stern network beyond our immediate classmates, filling me with excitement and pride to join such a robust and supportive community that extends well beyond graduation.

When evaluating prospective schools, take time to decide on the factors most important to you. Talking to current students about their experiences will shed a lot of light on the school’s culture. For the application process, I advise prospective students to find a way to let their personality shine through, as Stern wants to learn about you beyond just academics.

NYC is truly like nowhere else in the world, filled with events waiting to be explored. The city offers an unparalleled diversity of experiences, each presenting unique opportunities for personal and professional growth. As a student in this global business hub, the city has become an extension of the classroom, allowing me to benefit from numerous advantages, including on-site company visits and direct interactions with professionals across various industries. NYC's reputation as a magnet for international corporations and talent provides exceptional access to a wide range of resources and networking opportunities.