Carly Andrews (Class of 2025) knows the importance of choosing the right MBA program based on one’s individual needs and future plans! Read on to learn about her Darden journey and the role the the Darden Disability Alliance (DDA) has played during her time here.
Name: Carly Andrew
Pronouns: she/her
Program/Graduation Year: Full-Time MBA/Class of 2025
Hometown: Massapequa, NY
Why Darden?
When I was looking for an MBA program, I always walked away from Darden events struck by how professional, kind and welcoming everyone was. It was clear to me that this was a community that really valued its people and had a strong commitment to creating a safe and accepting environment. I loved the idea of pushing myself with the case method and having a safe space to practice speaking up. It seemed like a really amazing way for me to go from what I was doing to the next phase of my career!
What did you do before coming to Darden?
I was working in various leadership positions within Assisted Living communities. Most recently before Darden, I was the Business Office Director for a community in Annandale, Virginia and handled the finance and HR functions as well as managed a 24/7 concierge team.
What are you involved in on the grounds?
DDA has my heart and my time as VP of Allyship and Education! I am also active in the Section A Rep board, outdoor club and Graduate Women in Business (GWIB).
What has been the highlight of your Darden experience?
It has been such an amazing experience to watch DDA grow from an idea Seiver [Jorgensen] spoke about during Opening Week to now a full-on movement at Darden. No specific moment in time or memory, but looking back on how much has already been accomplished makes me feel so proud and excited for what’s to come!
What advice do you have for students embarking on their time at Darden?
Take some time to understand how you work best and what you need to be successful and then advocate for it — no one else will do it for you! There is no shame in asking for accommodations, saying no to things that don’t work for you or pursuing something outside of consulting or banking (ha, ha). Darden-think can be pretty powerful at times, but it is still a community of individuals with individual needs. Do what makes sense for you, and honor and encourage your classmates when they do the same!
Where was your summer internship?
Associate Brand Manager at The Hershey Company
What section are you in? What section traditions are your favorite?
Section A forever!! Our ability to lift each other up and come through for each other is my favorite thing about Section A.
