Stephany Smith, '26 MBA: From Military Missions to MBA
Friday, November 8, 2024
Program
’26 MBA
Military Service
U.S. Army & Alabama Army National Guard
Stephany Smith, ’26 MBA, spent 12 years in the U.S. Army and Alabama Army National Guard rising the ranks and leading human resource operations. As she prepares to transition out of the military, she’s ready for her next mission: earning her MBA.
How has your military background helped you in the classroom as a business student?
My military background contributed to my ability to work collaboratively on teams and understand business concepts from a practical perspective, especially as it relates to making and recommending business decisions for an organization. Most of my military assignments were in a staff primary role, so I led a functional business unit for my organization, collaborated with other business unit leaders, and made recommendations to decision-makers based on the mission and organization data.
What has been your most valuable Carlson School experience?
The number of opportunities coordinated by the Carlson School to connect and network has been endless thus far. I have connected with several classmates, Carlson School alumni, and companies. I also attended the National Black MBA Association Conference in Washington, D.C., and that was a very rewarding experience.
Additionally, the level of commitment the Carlson School’s second-years have had to my cohort’s success has been outstanding. They have planned several events and activities with faculty to ensure we have support in addition to what is already in place.
There is an overwhelming amount of support for military veterans at the Carlson School.
How do you feel military veterans are supported at the Carlson School? Do you feel a sense of community with other student veterans?
There is an overwhelming amount of support for military veterans at the Carlson School. The Military and Veterans’ Club hosts several events to provide support to us. Also, the University Veterans Services has been helpful to me with utilizing my benefits. I am also impressed with the number of veterans in our program. I am currently transitioning out of the military, and one of my teammates is a retired veteran. It has been nice to have peers to talk to about some of the things service members encounter while transitioning.
What is your advice for veterans or service members who are considering business school?
Consider the skills and experiences you currently have and shape your business school aspirations from there. The Carlson School has an extensive network to tap into and offers flexibility with course selections to tailor the program to your needs.
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