Jackie Martinez

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Jackie Martinez

"As a top research university, I was excited to be surrounded by some of the top business leaders around the country."

Your Story

I graduated with a degree in Business with specializations in International Business and Spanish and also played tennis all four years. My spark for global relations was evident in my study abroad program as well as my recent professional experience working for a government affairs advisory located in Washington, DC. It is here that I was able to use my Spanish speaking capabilities to leverage relationships among our Fortune 200 clients with government officials abroad. I have also had the opportunity to work in the education, non-profit, and energy sectors.

Why Carlson?

I chose Carlson because of the experiential component and access I would have to the renowned professors and faculty members. As a top research university, I was excited to be surrounded by some of the top business leaders around the country. In addition, I enjoy the class size. It has given me the opportunity to truly get to know my classmates while gaining their insights from their various experiences. Lastly, I know the Twin Cities has a lot to offer with so many different industries represented, but the experiences have far exceeded my expectations on the number of opportunities here.

Overall Experience as a Carlson MBA Student

My overall experience has been phenomenal. I was nervous weeks leading up to my transition from the East coast to the Midwest. I have never lived in this region and did not know what to expect, but my classmates have been so supportive and welcoming which made the anxiety go away. I completely feel as one with the student body and I am only looking forward to continuing those relationships. The faculty has been exceptional in this process as well. I am not sure I could have found the same support elsewhere and know I am coming out of this program with lasting friendships. I have had nothing but great experiences with the Graduate Business Career Center and am surprised by my development thus far which will only continue to strengthen throughout the program. I look back a year ago and there is no way I could have fathomed the progress I have made in my professional and personal development.

A Day in the Life of a Carlson MBA Student

 5-6:30am Wake up and hit the gym with good beats!
7:30am Hop on the light rail and head over to campus while catching up on email
8am-11:35am Cohort B Core Operations and Finance Classes
11:35-1:15pm Attend GBCC Prep Sessions, Resume Review, Individual Coaching, etc., Club meetings, Setting up informational interviews with recruiters and second years
1:15-3:25pm Cohort B Core Marketing Class
3:30-5:30pm Catch up on e-mails, go over class lectures and readings
5:30-6:30pm Meet for Happy Hour with classmates 
7pm Homework and review action plan items while also catching up on phone calls. Puerto Rican moms need to know where you're at- know what I am saying?!
10:30-11pm Leisurely reading
11pm Lights out for game time tomorrow! 

About Jackie

Hometown
Syracuse, New York, San Juan, Puerto Rico
Undergraduate Institution
Nazareth College of Rochester
Experience
Collegiate Assistant Tennis Coach, Non-Profit, Consulting
Carlson Activities
Sports Business Club, Graduate Women in Business, Mosaic
Internship
The Schwan Food Company Associate Marketing Manager Intern
Professional Interests
Engineering
Company
General Mills
Job Title
Senior Packaging Engineer