Why did you choose to come to the University of Wisconsin MBA's Nicholas Center?

Coming from a background in science, the applied portion of the program really interested me. To get a PhD or MS in science one has to complete a project and write a thesis. I never understood how one could get an MBA without some real-world experience; when I found the Nicholas Center it seemed like the perfect opportunity. Not only do I get a first-rate education in finance, but I get to work on several projects during my second year and apply that learning to the real-world environment.

 

School of Business > ACFIN >


 

Alexander MacDougall
Nicholas 2005

Procter & Gamble

What are your career objectives?

I would like to combine my science background with my finance experience and work in financial consulting or investment banking in the bioscience sector.

Did you have prior work experience in finance?

I had no prior experience in finance. My undergraduate degree is in Biochemistry.

What has surprised you about the Nicholas Center?

The level of interaction we have with the companies who sponsor our projects was a surprise. I delivered a two hour presentation to the CEO and various other finance VIPs at P&G, giving me the opportunity to discuss the financial innards of a huge multinational company with the people who make the major day to day decisions.

Why would you recommend this program to prospective students?

The difficulties of the projects we work on are equivalent to a real-world project. My first project was to calculate a WACC for P&G based on business unit and geography. Moving from the very simple looking equation one learns form the text books to applying the same equation in the real world is a huge step. Having that experience before entering the workforce will give any prospective student a huge advantage over any competition.

What has been your most rewarding experience during the MBA process?

I would say that the relationships I have built through academic and social interaction have been the most rewarding experience during my MBA.

What's your favorite thing to do in Madison?

I like to hang out at the Memorial Union terrace during the summer and listen to live music.

More Featured Alumni Interviews
Sheldon Liu (2006) Rachel Nielsen (2006)