Bridging technology and business
For Jaya Davis, second-year concurrent MBA student and software engineering major, the decision to pursue an MBA at Iowa State University was all about impact. With a background in software engineering, she had the technical skills to build solutions but wanted to understand the bigger picture of operating a business.
“I’ve always loved solving problems that combine technology and business,” Davis said. “Pairing my technical background with an MBA would give me the leadership, strategy, and big-picture thinking skills to make an impact in any industry. I wanted the ability to not just build solutions, but also guide teams, shape strategy, and understand the ‘why’ behind the work.”
Her journey began with the Ivy College of Business Done in a Day event, which she described as “a great preview of the MBA.” She left energized and eager to learn from professors and peers with diverse backgrounds.
What’s her advice to future students considering Done in a Day or the concurrent MBA? “Say yes to things, even if you are busy. Some of the best parts of the program come from taking chances and stepping into opportunities that might feel overwhelming at first,” Davis said. “Saying yes has not only helped me grow academically and professionally, but it’s also how I’ve built so many meaningful relationships with classmates, professors, and professionals.”
Once she began the program, Davis quickly discovered that some of the most valuable lessons happen outside the classroom. From competing in case competitions to late-night team projects, she formed strong connections with classmates. “I built amazing connections this year. I grew incredibly close to my team – we’re truly friends for life, and I even went to one of their weddings this summer,” she said.
One highlight has been competing in the Texas Christian University (TCU) Graduate Supply Chain Case Competition, where her team placed second.
“It was both challenging and rewarding,” she said. “We had to think creatively and analytically under tight deadlines, and it really tested our ability to work together and communicate effectively. On top of that, we got the chance to network with students from many different schools, which made the experience even more valuable. What made it stand out for me was how much I learned about supply chain strategy in a real-world context, while also building meaningful connections along the way.”
Davis also credits Associate Professor Henrik Sternberg with shaping her MBA experience.
“He’s been so supportive both personally and professionally. He introduced me to professionals I might pursue a future career with, and he was the one who encouraged me to try case competitions. Through his mentorship, I’ve not only grown academically but also built a strong professional network,” Davis said.
Sternberg was impressed from the beginning.
“I met Jaya while interviewing students for our concurrent MBA program. From the start, it was clear she had the ambition, analytical skills, and communication ability to thrive under pressure. That is why I recruited her for the case competition team,” Sternberg said.
“The network I’ve built is by far the biggest thing I’ll take away from this program. I’ve met so many amazing people, mentors, classmates, and friends who have shaped my experience in ways I couldn’t have imagined.”
— Jaya Davis, concurrent Ivy MBA student
The TCU case competition is not easy, Sternberg said. “This competition, with a first prize of $14,000, is probably the toughest and most prestigious MBA case competition between top programs. Jaya was selected as one of four students representing Iowa State. She exceeded my expectations in the competition, delivering a solid analysis and presentation. Her contribution was a key factor in their team securing second place and $10,000 in prize money. Going into next year’s competition, Jaya is the team captain, and I am confident she will lead the team of first-year MBA students to success again.”
Professionally, Davis has already put her MBA to work. She’s held roles at Kent Corporation, where she helped implement new sales software, and most recently as a robotic process automation intern at Land O’Lakes in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
“My MBA helped me approach these roles as both a problem-solver and a strategist,” Davis said. “Whether that meant improving supply chain processes, designing CRM solutions, or automating regulatory workflows. Combining that business lens with my engineering skills has made me more confident tackling high-impact projects.”
Looking ahead, Davis plans to continue bridging the gap between technical and business teams in fields like tech consulting, process automation, or product management. Her goal is to lead projects that make a tangible difference for both businesses and the people they serve.
Her time in the MBA program has been anything but quiet. In her final undergraduate year alone, Davis served as co-president of Engineers’ Week, worked part-time at Kent Corporation, was a graduate assistant for Sternberg, stayed active in her sorority, served on the Engineering Student Council, competed in case competitions, and still found time for friends.
For Davis, the true highlight of her MBA experience has been the people. “The network I’ve built is by far the biggest thing I’ll take away from this program,” she said. “I’ve met so many amazing people, mentors, classmates, and friends who have shaped my experience in ways I couldn’t have imagined.”
To connect with Jaya Davis or follow her collegiate and professional career, visit her LinkedIn profile.
Are you considering the concurrent MBA at Iowa State?
The annual Done in a Day event is on November 5. This one-day, immersive event gives prospective students the opportunity to meet faculty, hear from current MBA students, and experience Ivy. Applications for the concurrent MBA program and registration for Done in a Day are open now. See how an Ivy MBA can help shape your future.
Done in a Day
Come see why Jaya Davis began her concurrent MBA journey with the Ivy College of Business Done in a Day event, which she described as “a great preview of the MBA.”
Applications for this annual event are open until October 27.
