Real Humans of the SMU Cox School of Business
Nathan Omid Moayyad, SMU Cox PMBA
Age: 32
Hometown: I was born in Chicago, but I consider Dallas my hometown.
Why business school? Why now? I originally wanted to do a JD/MBA dual degree when I was in law school at SMU, but the opportunity and timing weren’t quite right. I got a second chance to complete my education the way I wanted because my employer was willing to pay for me to come back and get an MBA.
Nathan Omid Moayyad, SMU Cox PMBA
Why the SMU MBA program? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend? The reputation of the program combined with my prior experience in law school made SMU Cox an easy decision for me.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to your MBA class? I bring to the table a genuine appreciation for being in a cohort with some talented individuals who are leaders in their companies. Every time I walk into class or partner with my classmates on a project, I bring enthusiasm and listening skills. Working with them makes me better and inspires my future career development.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application? I am a HUGE foodie. If you have any restaurant recommendations, please let me know!
Post-MBA career interests? After I complete my MBA, I hope to move up within my company and step into a leadership role where I can help guide it into this ever-changing and rapidly advancing business environment.
Advice to Prospective MBA Applicants
One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process? I would do the interview again. My interviewer was wonderful and I’d love to revisit that portion of the process again.
One thing you would change or do differently? I would worry less. I’m sure, if you’re like most applicants, the stress and worry of getting accepted will wear on you. If I could do it again, I would trust myself, and my qualifications, more and enjoy the process.
Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it? Nothing!
Greatest highlight so far at SMU Cox? My classmates are the highlight. I really feel fortunate to be around some of the brightest minds in the DFW area.
One thing about SMU Cox that you didn’t expect before arriving? I didn’t expect the opportunity to connect with business leaders so easily. The number of executives and senior leaders locally that present in my classes with frequency is truly exceptional.
Thing you were most anxious about in your first year? I was most anxious about the heavy dose of mathematics that I was about to get. You’re talking to a guy who studied history as an undergrad and then went to law school. Math was never my strong suit.
Thing you were most excited about in your first year? I’m most excited about being a student again. Returning to a higher education environment makes me feel young again. Challenging my body and mind with the responsibility of going back to school while continuing my existing obligations was challenging, but I was eager to make the most of my time in school again and could not wait to get started. That excitement remains with me to this day.
About the Author
Matthew Korman
Matthew Korman is a writer on MetroMBA. Since graduating from Rowan University with a degree in journalism and political science, Matthew has worked as a music industry writer and promoter, a data analyst, and with numerous academic institutions. His works have appeared in publications such as NPR and Sports Illustrated.
