I’m one of the few (but multiplying) West Coasters at UNC Kenan-Flagler. I was born and raised in Southern California, and completed an undergrad degree at USC in Los Angeles. I worked in commercial real estate for 4 years and decided it was time for business school. I researched and visited about 20 programs from Boston to the Southeast, and felt that UNC was the best fit. I actually left my company to allow time for applications (14-hour banking days don’t allow room for creative efforts) so once I had applications submitted, I made the cross-country trek in my Honda to North Carolina.

During my research about North Carolina, I was impressed with Charlotte’s growth and decided to live there for six months while I awaited decisions from schools. I went to work for a local real estate brokerage firm which ended up being a great experience in managing a small business –the founders took me under their wings, and helped me get acclimated to a new environment.

As a fourth-generation Californian, this was a big jump for me – but I am excited about the experience, and look forward to the learning I have in store at UNC Kenan-Flagler.