An entrepreneur since grade school, Marissa Streng, MSM’24, has always seen her future in business. Applying to the Kelley School’s inaugural MS in Management cohort was an “easy decision,” she said, because she knew she’d gain the advanced business acumen and skills to launch the kind of career she wants in consulting.
Marissa discusses her academic and career path in this Q&A, where we learn about her plans in New York, how she came from Tampa to Indiana, and what she likes best about the new MSM program.
You are graduating in December with your MS in Management—congratulations! What are your goals and aspirations?
I have decided to continue my career with PwC this January in the New York City office (I interned with the Chicago office). I will be a deals consultant on the human capital workstream. I am looking forward to exploring all the opportunities that I can in New York! I am not sure where my career will lead me, but I know I am going into it ready to take on the next challenge.
Why did you choose Kelley’s MSM?
I earned my bachelor’s from Indiana University and the Kelley School in May, majoring in management and international business with a minor in psychology. Applying to the MSM Program was an easy decision—it provided a space to continue my education where I could gain advanced business acumen and training before starting my career in consulting. Also, I always knew I wanted to get my master’s at some point. By joining the MSM Program, I am now able to progress in my career faster. It takes the stress and pressure off your shoulders knowing you will be able to be a candidate for management positions because of the master’s degree.
What has been impactful to you so far in the program?
The MSM Program provides the opportunity to work with devoted faculty and driven students. The Kelley network is impressive, and I can apply what I learn in my classes directly to my career.
- Faculty. I cannot say enough positive things about the faculty within the MSM Program. The professors are incredibly knowledgeable and always willing to help. They encourage us to think critically and push us to explore innovative ideas.
- Peers. From running my own business from an early age, I learned I can complete any given task. With the help of others, I can learn more and gain different perspectives. Throughout the MSM Program, I work alongside other driven peers to not just complete a project or assignment, but to grow from it. Collaborating with fellow students has been a highlight. The diversity of thought and background enriches our discussions and projects, leading to more innovative and well-rounded solutions.
- A huge alumni network. The Kelley School of Business has an extensive and expanding network. The connections gained from the classes are an immense benefit in the form of current and future alumni.
- Impactful courses. Specific classes like spreadsheet modeling and organizational behavior have also been particularly impactful, providing me with practical skills and insights that I can apply directly to my career. Every class you take has a direct link to your career and each student around you is excited to learn.
Do you have advice for students in the program?
The best advice I can give is to stay open to new perspectives and opportunities. This program encourages personal and professional growth as well as academics. By actively engaging in discussions, in recruiting events, and with other classmates, you can take in all the benefits of this program.
Talk about your experience with career development and prep at Kelley.
The career services at Kelley are amazing. They put time and energy into each student in the program and genuinely want you to succeed. Even before our courses started, the career services team held seminars, reviewed each resume, provided LinkedIn help, and offered interview prep.
Your invention for a third-grade science fair quickly evolved into the Puff-n-Fluff Dog Dryer—and a legit business that you’ve led. What brought you from Tampa to Bloomington and Indiana University?
My guidance counselor in high school recommended IU because it was one of her favorite schools. I always knew I wanted to be in the Midwest, so I decided to apply and was admitted. After going to Kelley Direct Admit Day, I fell in love with the school. I remember touring when it was snowing and just saw every student being so friendly and smiling as we walked by. I knew I wanted to be in a place that made it feel like a home away from home. IU had an environment that radiated positivity, and I wanted to be a part of it. I knew a life of business was for me since my third-grade invention, which gave me the opportunity to be at the forefront of a business. Since that moment, my drive for a career in this field has only intensified.
What is the student life experience on campus?
Student life at IU is one of a kind! Whether it is supporting IU’s basketball team, grabbing dinner on Kirkwood, or simply walking through Dunn Meadow, you are constantly greeted with smiling faces. Moving from Florida to Indiana I was worried I would miss the sunshine, but the students around me provided all the sunshine I needed.
Throughout my studies at Indiana University, I have participated in various community groups. My freshman year I joined the Women & Co. club where I immersed myself in multiple committees varying from corporate relations to philanthropy. Women & Co. acted as a channel for women to engage, educate, and empower other individuals. Shortly after, I decided to join a sorority, Alpha Xi Delta, where I was asked to be the vice president of chapter life. In this position, I oversaw the safety of over 200 members and worked closely with the Panhellenic Association and Office of Sorority and Fraternity Life at Indiana University.
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