Winnie Kim

Pre-MBAxMS Title:

Supply Chain, Samsung Electronics

Post-MBAxMS Goals:

Tech/semiconductor industry

CBS Activities or Clubs:

Microbrew President, Outdoors club VP, Tech Club

Favorite NYC Activities:

Running at Riverside Park, having drinks at the Baylander, golfing at Van Cortlandt Park

Prior to starting, what were you expecting the program to be like? How was it different than your expectations?

Before starting, I didn’t know that MBAxMS students would join the J-term MBA in the spring. I really enjoyed being part of a cluster with J-term students while also meeting fall-term students through events and clubs. At the same time, our MBAxMS ’26 cohort felt like a family. 

Studying the core classes was harder than I expected since I didn’t have a business or finance background. But because everything was new, I learned a lot and truly enjoyed the experience. One highlight was building a robot arm from scratch—it was one of my favorite classes.

Why did you choose Columbia and the MBAxMS program?

With my engineering background, I wanted to stay connected to the technical side while pursuing an MBA. The MBAxMS program offered the unique opportunity to combine both business and engineering in two years, which felt more valuable than a traditional MBA alone. I also thought it would be exciting to meet people with similar interests and passions.

What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to your class?

I think my biggest contribution is fostering connections. I always valued spending time with classmates—whether traveling together or celebrating birthdays. Even when we were busy with academics and recruiting, I made it a priority to create memories with my cohort, knowing our time together was limited.

What’s been the most valuable insight or skill you’ve gained from learning at both Columbia Engineering and Columbia Business School?

Time management and prioritization have been essential. Because classes sometimes conflicted between the two schools, I had to make tough decisions about where to focus. I learned that you can’t do everything—and that’s okay. 

Another key takeaway is the importance of integrated knowledge. Before the program, I thought I just needed to excel in my own field. But I realized industries and functions are deeply interconnected. To lead effectively, you need a broad perspective that draws from both business and engineering.

What have been some of the most valuable relationships or connections you’ve built through this dual-degree program?

The most valuable connections have been with my cohort. We all come from different backgrounds, but we share similar interests and ambitions. It feels like we’re moving toward parallel futures, which makes our shared experiences even more meaningful. I believe these friendships and networks will create long-term synergy well beyond graduation.

How has access to both Columbia Engineering and Columbia Business School’s resources and alumni networks shaped your professional opportunities or mentorship experiences?

Having access to both schools has been especially valuable for those interested in startups, where both business and technical perspectives matter. Even beyond entrepreneurship, Columbia Engineering helps us stay current in a rapidly evolving tech landscape, while Columbia Business School connects us with a wide network of people from diverse backgrounds. Together, this combination has opened doors to mentorship and professional opportunities.

What would you tell a prospective student about managing the fast-paced, 20-month structure of the MBAxMS program?

Time management is critical—there are so many opportunities but limited time. Since we have to take more credits across both schools, it’s important to plan ahead, especially for classes that are only offered in certain terms. You also need to know your priorities and learn to manage FOMO for your own well-being.

What has been the most rewarding part of your MBAxMS journey so far?

The most rewarding part has been the balance between business and engineering studies. Sometimes I can get too focused on one area and lose perspective, but this program constantly pushes me to think more broadly. It has helped me develop a more well-rounded mindset, which is crucial as a future leader.

Post-MBAxMS career interests?

I’d like to work in the tech or semiconductor industry, where I can see firsthand how rapidly technology evolves and impacts daily life.