Student Ambassador Spotlight: Emil Barci, MBA/MSA Candidate 2012

Emil Barci
MBA/MSA Candidate 2012
Full-time student

• Concentrations: Accounting & Finance
• Industry/ Field of work: Finance/Investment Management
• Undergraduate degree in: Finance
• Undergraduate School:University of Illinois at Chicago
• Career Goal: To start my own business providing financial counseling and planning services to aid individuals in making intelligent decisions.
• Organizations involved with: GFIN & MBA Association
• Linkedin Profile

What prompted you to return to school to achieve your MBA? 

After gaining a few years of work experience, I realized that my my career was progressing more slowly than I planned. In order to reach my personal goals and remain competitive in the job market, I knew I had to return to school.

What was the most important factor for you in choosing an MBA/MSA program (or factors you considered)?

Knowing I was interested in attending school full-time, cost was a major driver in my decision. At the same time, I wasn’t willing to sacrifice the quality of my education. I conducted my search with the notion that my academic experience would be highly correlated to the time and effort I’d dedicate to my studies, regardless of where I decided to study.

Why did you choose UIC Liautaud for your MBA/MSA?

After sitting in on classes and attending open houses at most of the business schools in Chicago, I was faced with making a difficult decision. I remember attending an information session at UIC where Professor Shanley led an engaging discussion on corporate strategy. Of all the experiences I had visiting schools up to this point, this was the sole instance that combined theory and practice. Overall, I was attracted to the phenomenal value UIC Liautaud had to offer. Having previously attended UIC as an undergrad I was very familiar with quality of the faculty.

We all know that people pursue the MBA to increase their business knowledge, but since you have started the program, what has been the most unexpected gain the MBA has given you? 

The integration with the Liautaud Corporate MBA program creates a very dynamic and diverse classroom experience. I have been able to meet some great people and build friendships with individuals from across the world.

Which class/professor has been your favorite thus far and why? 

Dr. Kirschenheiter’s Corporate Valuation course (ACTG 585) Before sitting for the class I had read a handful of books on the topics of business valuation and value investing. Professor Kirschenheiter is enthusiastic and his approach to teaching the material is new and unique. He challenges students to think critically. Rather than follow stanardized financial models in his examples, he encourages students to think outside of the box and use their intuition to solve problems.

What is your favorite aspect of the UIC campus and why?

The newly renovated Douglas Hall, equipped with a market training lab and the latest technology serves as an example of the how UIC Liautaud simulates a real-life work environment . Additionally, the campus is centrally located just minutes away from the loop and Chicago’s financial district.

How would you define the Liautaud student?

The Liautaud student body is diverse, both ethnically and in their experiences as well as hardworking and dedicated.

What advice would you provide to incoming UIC Liautaud MBA/MSA students? 

Get involved and leave your mark. One of the greatest aspects of the programs offered at Liautaud is that the faculty and staff provide students the autonomy necessary to achieve their goals. Whether this includes designing your own curriculum or conducting an independent study, students have access to invaluable resources. Getting involved with one of the student organzations is also a great way to meet new people, build relationships and expand your network.

To meet with a Student Ambassador or schedule a class visit, click here to send your request to our Admissions team.