Alyssa Sohn
JD/MBA Program Model: Three-Year
Hometown: Cherry Hill, NJ
Undergraduate Major: Engineering Psychology
Previous Professional Experience: Head of Faculty for Vietnam-based EdTech company; Human Resources Officer in the United States Army
Extracurricular Involvement: Penn Law Equity and Inclusion Student Advisory Board; Internet, Tech and Society Collective; Wharton Technology Club; Penn Law First Generation Professionals; Business Law Association; Women’s Association; Asian Pacific American Law Students Association; Wharton and Penn Law Veterans Clubs; Penn Law Trans Empowerment & Advocacy Project
Career Plans: TBD
Why a JD/MBA? I’ve been incredibly lucky to work and lead teams in the Middle East and Southeast Asia, in both large organizations and a tight-knit startup. What I enjoy the most is seeing my team come together to create solutions and provide a level of service that makes a difference to our soldiers and customers.
I decided to return to school after seeing managers and mentors lead in crises. On the HR side, I saw how US courts were leveraged to halt discriminatory personnel policies. During the start of the pandemic, I saw how startup founders pivoted to “build the plane as they were flying”, not only to continue providing educational services for students but also to expand educational support and outreach to students in other countries (shout out to Tommy Nguyen WG’18). Seeing everything unfold helped me to evaluate the legal and business skills I wanted to better support and lead my teams in the future.
After making the decision to return to the classroom, I knew that the Carey JD/MBA program provided the opportunity to maximize the next three years in an established, well-integrated program with storied communities, faculty, and a network that I was excited to be a part of. Speaking with students in the program helped me figure out if it would be a good fit and made me look forward to having the same opportunities to learn and grow.
On the personal side of things... I surprised people when I decided to go back to school. Making the transition to return to school was challenging but worthwhile. I’ve always had a penchant for working more than studying, but nothing can really prepare you for 1L year. I’ve enjoyed learning in person from my peers and reflecting on their perspectives.
My experience getting here wasn’t smooth sailing. After shattering my arm in a cycling accident, I had to re-prioritize my goals and focus on the fundamentals. This time last year, I was working with my PT, surgeon, and pain-management team so that I’d be able to apply during round two, interview, and hopefully attend school in the fall. I have my final arm surgery coming up. I share this to say that, like most things, it takes a village. Penn is not any different, there is support and community within the program that will enable you to succeed and have fun along the way. Don’t be afraid to reach out and connect.