Find out how this MBA grad is leveraging her degree to inspire women in business and young people at Teach For America
Some MBAs enter business school with a vague idea of what they want to do with their career. For Arizona native Veronica Aguilar, however, she was sure from the very beginning.Fast-forward two years since her MBA and her ambitious attitude and compassion has even landed her a spot in the prestigious Phoenix Business Journal 40 Under 40 list for 2023.
Find out how she’s using her MBA for the greater good by inspiring and championing women in business and young people across the US.
A life-long ambition to join an MBA
With a bachelor’s degree in business and corporate communications from Arizona State University’s (ASU) W. P. Carey School of Business, Veronica already knew a thing or two about the business world.
“I always knew I wanted to pursue my MBA in the future,” she says.
After graduating from her bachelor’s, she was recruited to nonprofit organization Teach For America, where after seven years, she eventually progressed to a senior leadership role in the national recruitment team.
“I knew that studying for an MBA would benefit this role,” she says, adding that management and leadership are her passions.
She looked no further than her alma mater and readily applied for her MBA there.
Veronica was fortunate enough to land multiple scholarships, including a merit-based MBA scholarship and scholarships from the Panhellenic Association and the Hispanic Scholarship Fund.
Stand-out learnings from an MBA in Arizona
Since Veronica already had a solid plan for her career, she used her W. P. Carey MBA experience to expand upon her existing knowledge by focusing on topics she wasn’t so familiar with.
As a leadership enthusiast, she notes that some of her stand-out courses included Mindful Leadership, helping her to become a better manager.
It was in a course on Business Planning that the initial ideas for Veronica’s own nonprofit organization—Young & Empowered Women—was born. The nonprofit focuses on gender inequality issues, closing the gender pay gap, and providing resources to rising female leaders.
Of those benefiting from the nonprofit, 60% are first-generation businesswomen, and 65% identify as women of color.
“From my experience in business, I saw a need for more support to empower and mentor women,” she says.
She used her learnings from the course to help create a board of directors and to form by-laws for the nonprofit
It also helped that she was able to build a business school network with her W. P. Carey MBA peers who came from various industries and experience levels.
There are more than 120k grads in the W. P. Carey alumni network—one of the largest groups in the US.
From an MBA to leading recruitment efforts at Teach For America
After Veronica graduated from her MBA in Arizona, she received a call from her former organization, Teach For America, inviting her to join as a senior leader in the recruitment team.
Her role as vice president of recruitment is to oversee the a team of recruiters in the West Coast, helping to recruit students at college campuses to join the organization and teach in low-income communities.
“The MBA allowed me to get my foot back in the door, enabling me to understand my own strengths as a business leader and implement what I learned in the program to manage diverse teams,” she says.
She recommends an MBA for anyone wanting to lead a nonprofit organization—whether small or large.
“You learn so much from being exposed to new industries—I was able to bring a new perspective compared to others who came from corporate America,” she says.
Veronica’s career story is testament to the fact that MBA programs aren’t just for those wanting to work in consulting, finance, or tech—an MBA degree can be used to inspire and champion those who need support the most.
Student Reviews
W. P. Carey School of Business - Arizona State University
Hands on Experience, labs
I love that that this school is known all over the world and the education is of high quality. It's been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as No. 1 for best online bachelor's in business programs
Amazing Start to Your Career in Social Sciences
I had a great experience at ASU as a Political Science student. ASU is one of the biggest universities in the U.S., offering a wide range of studies. The student body was diverse and overall great to study with. ASU is rich in both academics and student life. There are many clubs, student organizations, amenities, and activities you can join. One thing I would recommend is invest in a lot of sunscreen and good walking shoes. Due to it's large campus you'll be doing a lot of walking which is great but can be a bit of a struggle during the very hot summer months.
Great MSW program!
Arizona State University has an amazing online Master of Social Work Program. Even though it was an online program, I feel that I developed great connections with professors, co-instructors, and peers. Finding an internship placement was stress free because of the high level of support the program offered. I would definitely choose to go back to ASU if I decided to further my education in future.
Long lasting friendships
I have been able to have incredible experiences and make connections that will live long in my memory. I've had the chance to start my career here in a way I never thought I would. I love how the university lets you choose your major and minor and take classes with a lot of freedom.
Continuous Support
Opinion
Arizona State University has many great opportunities available to students. All of the departments are very helpful and really care about student's succeeding.
What's there to like?
One think I like about ASU is their Education program. They really ensure that students will receive useful information that is directly applicable to their career.
One thing I dislike is, nothing! It is a high ranking university but one notable thing is that the school is located in Arizona; where temperatures reach well over 100° throughout the entire Summer.
Would I reccomend ASU?
I would certainly reccomend Arizona State University for any students who are looking to learn and gain meaningful experiences throughout finishing school.
Arizona State University
ASU is a wonderful university with so many educational opportunities. Its professors are friendly and approachable and were always willing to help or give advice to students whenever their help was needed. It also provided students with many opportunities to meet people outside the classroom for example clubs and other social events hosted within the university. ASU offers great education and I loved the campus and faculty
Practical Lecturing
The amazing features about Arizona State University would not allow me to write less when it comes to recommending the second to none university to the public! Life on Arizona State University campus is an intriguing possibility! Here is where dreams are realized due to the immense support from lecturers academically as well as fascinating large lecture halls with modernized appliance that makes learning easier. Goals are realized with ease as students who need support are given chances
University program
The university offers a lot of options for students, particularly in terms of integration and extracurricular activities including involvement in several student organizations. However, I am dissatisfied with the quality of the information offered and the degree of practice skills needed for success in a professional position. Fantastic university location
ASU infrastructures
Without a doubt, I would suggest this university. There is a highly educated personnel with an exceptional commitment toward teaching. The highly developed infrastructure and technology is another significant plus.
Hands on Experience, labs
I love that that this school is known all over the world and the education is of high quality. It's been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as No. 1 for best online bachelor's in business programs
Amazing Start to Your Career in Social Sciences
I had a great experience at ASU as a Political Science student. ASU is one of the biggest universities in the U.S., offering a wide range of studies. The student body was diverse and overall great to study with. ASU is rich in both academics and student life. There are many clubs, student organizations, amenities, and activities you can join. One thing I would recommend is invest in a lot of sunscreen and good walking shoes. Due to it's large campus you'll be doing a lot of walking which is great but can be a bit of a struggle during the very hot summer months.
Great MSW program!
Arizona State University has an amazing online Master of Social Work Program. Even though it was an online program, I feel that I developed great connections with professors, co-instructors, and peers. Finding an internship placement was stress free because of the high level of support the program offered. I would definitely choose to go back to ASU if I decided to further my education in future.
Long lasting friendships
I have been able to have incredible experiences and make connections that will live long in my memory. I've had the chance to start my career here in a way I never thought I would. I love how the university lets you choose your major and minor and take classes with a lot of freedom.
Continuous Support
Opinion
Arizona State University has many great opportunities available to students. All of the departments are very helpful and really care about student's succeeding.
What's there to like?
One think I like about ASU is their Education program. They really ensure that students will receive useful information that is directly applicable to their career.
One thing I dislike is, nothing! It is a high ranking university but one notable thing is that the school is located in Arizona; where temperatures reach well over 100° throughout the entire Summer.
Would I reccomend ASU?
I would certainly reccomend Arizona State University for any students who are looking to learn and gain meaningful experiences throughout finishing school.
Arizona State University
ASU is a wonderful university with so many educational opportunities. Its professors are friendly and approachable and were always willing to help or give advice to students whenever their help was needed. It also provided students with many opportunities to meet people outside the classroom for example clubs and other social events hosted within the university. ASU offers great education and I loved the campus and faculty
Practical Lecturing
The amazing features about Arizona State University would not allow me to write less when it comes to recommending the second to none university to the public! Life on Arizona State University campus is an intriguing possibility! Here is where dreams are realized due to the immense support from lecturers academically as well as fascinating large lecture halls with modernized appliance that makes learning easier. Goals are realized with ease as students who need support are given chances
University program
The university offers a lot of options for students, particularly in terms of integration and extracurricular activities including involvement in several student organizations. However, I am dissatisfied with the quality of the information offered and the degree of practice skills needed for success in a professional position. Fantastic university location
ASU infrastructures
Without a doubt, I would suggest this university. There is a highly educated personnel with an exceptional commitment toward teaching. The highly developed infrastructure and technology is another significant plus.
Uncomplicated and lots of great classes
The application process and anything with admin was easy and made students' lives easy. There were many good classes to choose from as well. The professors were professionals in their subjects and led successful class discussions. The reading lists were also full of great choices.
Flexible coursework
I liked about the way a student could choose from thesis, applied project, or a portfolio to complete a degree. And it’s in a prime location where semiconductor companies are situated. Also the university is diversified and cost of living is less.
Flexible
ASU is great for working students. What I like most is the flexibility. Students can choose to take their courses during the mornings, afternoons, evenings, or online. I dislike most is the lack of good electives to choose from.
amazing professors
As a student at Arizona State University, I've had the pleasure of learning from outstanding professors who are not only experts in their fields but also genuinely care about their students' success. They make complex topics easier to understand through engaging and practical teaching methods. Professors are approachable, always available for support during office hours or via email, and their passion for their subjects makes learning enjoyable. Their dedication and commitment truly enhance the academic experience at ASU.
