Mary Parmeter
University of Wisconsin–Madison, Wisconsin School of Business
MBA Graduation Year: 2018
Specialization: Corporate Finance and Investment Banking
Hometown: Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin
Internship: Goldman Sachs, Investment Management Division; Chicago, Illinois
Accepted Position: Associate Attorney, Axley Brynelson Law Firm; serving in securities, real estate, and general business law
Mary Parmeter was pursuing a law degree when she learned about the business specializations available in the Wisconsin MBA Program. She knew immediately that combining a deep focus in finance with her law degree would give her well-rounded business exposure to be effective in practicing business law. At Wisconsin, she is able to truly set herself apart, earning both degrees simultaneously.
I chose the specialized Wisconsin MBA Program to get an in-depth understanding of the finance industry. The Corporate Finance and Investment Banking specialization goes well beyond the basics you’d get in a general MBA. I wanted to enter the finance industry with deep financial acumen and connections to players in the financial industry. The specialized focus at Wisconsin has a great industry reputation and is allowing me to earn both my law and MBA degrees at the same time, which is a huge advantage.
I grew up in a family business, which taught me the importance of having a well-rounded business perspective. The Wisconsin MBA is giving me a deep understanding of finance plus a solid overall business foundation—and it provides flexibility so I am able earn my law degree at the same time. I am building strong financial acumen and meeting influential professionals throughout the financial industry.
—Mary Parmeter
The collaborative yet competitive culture is challenging me to work smarter and be more creative. The interactive and group-based learning experiences have had a very positive impact on my education. My peers have challenged me to try new things and to think about business in a new way.
The Strategy course really challenged the class to think critically and examine everyday thoughts and assumptions. We examined business decisions in depth to understand the real story behind certain moves in the market. This focused insight into business decision-making is a skill that I will use throughout my career.
Wisconsin’s alumni network is a valuable resource. For example, I met an alumnus for coffee to discuss my MBA strategy. He encouraged me to learn as much as I can and to take time to build connections and network. He shared that the connections he made through the MBA program have been very helpful to him throughout his career. His guidance was also extremely helpful in earning my summer internship.
My Goldman Sachs internship helped me make connections and communicate difficult financial subjects well. The skills I gained in the MBA program challenged me to think outside the box during my internship, and through real-world consulting projects I was able to master essential communication skills.
Comparing notes with other MBA students during my internship showed that Wisconsin’s specialized program truly stood out. Many of the programs I learned about have similar teaching techniques. The difference at Wisconsin is the specialization model. It provides a deep dive into an area of business—in my case finance. Also, Wisconsin’s small class size allows a level and quality of camaraderie that I didn’t hear about from students at other schools. The connections I’ve made will be a lifelong network of accomplished professionals.