Ambassador Q&A: Kara Henderson ’25

Kara Henderson
Undergraduate: University of Virginia
Location: Charlottesville, VA
Company: University of Virginia
Job Title: Director of Data Analytics
Industry: Higher Education
LinkedIn

What is your motivation for pursuing an M.S. in Business Analytics?

When I got my job at UVA in early 2023, I found out about this program. Once I heard about it, I knew I wanted to do it at some point. First of all, I know it will help me in my career going forward to have a master’s degree, but also because this program aligned so perfectly with my current job. I was excited to learn some newer technologies in a practical application setting vs. doing classes on LinkedIn Learning or similar.

What led you to UVA’s MSBA program?

I went to UVA undergrad, I live in Charlottesville, and I work at UVA, so this was a no-brainer for me. I love all things UVA (go Hoos!), and this program had the perfect mix of in-person and Zoom classes. It was important to me to actually get to know my classmates as people and not just boxes on a Zoom screen. The content also aligns perfectly with my job, so I did not look at any other programs. I heard about this program when I started work at UVA and knew that I would pursue it at some point in my career.

How has the MSBA program complemented your work experience?

While we are still very much in the first half of the program, I have been able to apply many of the things I’ve learned already to my job. It’s been helpful to understand the “why” behind some of the things we do and be able to think more broadly about the business reasons for different decisions.

What is the most practical concept and/or skill that you have learned so far?

Definitely getting started in Python. I have known for a while that this is a skill that I needed as the industry moves more and more towards using Python everywhere. I am excited to continue to hone my skills in this field throughout the rest of the program and figure out where it makes the most sense to apply it in my current job.

What is your favorite and/or the most valuable aspect(s) of the residences?

My favorite part of the residencies is getting to know all of the different people in my cohort. In Zoom class, you really don’t get to know people well, as everyone is in class and leaves immediately after. In person, we have many breaks and social events throughout the weekend, and I try to talk to different people each weekend and learn something about each of them. I hope in the future we can all help each other in our careers and lives!

How have you been able to integrate the program into your professional responsibilities and personal commitments?

This was my biggest concern coming into the program. I have two small children (5 and 8), as well as a full-time job that I go to every day in person, and all of the other things people have to take care of in life (laundry, a yard, doctor appointments, scheduled activities, etc.). It is very busy to add this program in, but with a good schedule, I can get everything done. Usually, I prep for classes for one hour each day and get most things done. There are some longer days with group projects and before the residencies, but day to day, it is manageable.

What are your interests and hobbies?

I love UVA basketball (men’s and women’s), skiing, reading, and spending time with my family and friends.

What is your best piece of advice for prospective students?

As Nike says, just do it. There will never be a perfect time to do this program, but once you are committed, you won’t regret it. Having the classes and in-person residencies scheduled will make sure you complete this program in slightly less than a year. You can do anything for a year, and in this case, you can learn a lot in just one year and come out on the other side with a new degree, new skills, and new friends/connections.