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Kara Dismuke

  • FTMBA Student Ambassador

Previous Industry & Function: Aerospace (Finance); Education (High School Teacher)
Intended Industry & Function: Consulting/Strategy/Finance
Hometown: Orange, CA
Previous Location: Orange, CA

Kara Dismuke

Pronouns:
She/Her/Hers

What surprised you most about Marshall?
What has surprised me the most is my classmates! I have not been a part of a group before that collectively maintains such a high level of collegiality and that individually come from such diverse backgrounds. From music producers to doctors to restaurant owners, everyone's journey to Marshall has been different, and in getting to know my classmates, I know that we are going to head in different directions after graduation. Yet, it is already evident that people have committed themselves to more than just their own dreams and goals. They also have committed themselves to connecting with one another and building community. I see now how the Trojan Network is not just alumni reaching back to help pull us forward but that it is also something to be experienced while in the program.

What do you wish you'd known before attending business school?
I did not realize just how intense the experience can be – between the rigor of classwork, the preparation for internships, the requirements of clubs, the training by second years, and the opportunities to network, it can feel everyday like I am being pulled in competing directions. While I think there is a reality to the intensiveness of the program, I am working to find balance and keep perspective by reminding myself of a few things: I do not have do to everything all the time, I need to have boundaries to stay healthy and sharp, I am not perfect and that is okay because I am here to learn, and I am going to continue to work in a way that reflects what my priorities are. People told me before business school to know my “why,” and I now see why they did as it can be easy to get pulled in other directions. Being able to come back to my reasons for being here keeps me focused and grounded.

What leadership positions do you hold at Marshall?
Challenge for Charity AVP (Special Olympics), Marshall Ambassador

What has been your favorite USC Marshall experience?
My favorite USC Marshall experience thus far was TAM Day! In orientation before class starts, we have many opportunities to learn more about the program itself and to connect with one another — culminating with a day of competition (TAM Day) between our three cores. This was my favorite experience because we were all able to interact outside of the classroom before class started, work towards common goals, start to get to know each other, and begin developing a sense of community. (To be fully transparent, Core B, the core I am in, also won. That made it a bit more fun!)

What is your favorite USC Marshall core class?
Contemporary Issues in Competitive Strategy

Which clubs are you involved in?
Marshall Consulting & Strategy Club (MCSC)
Challenge for Charity
Marshall Business Competition Program (MBCP)

Core:
B

Why did you choose Marshall?
I chose Marshall for five reasons. One, the Trojan Network. In today's highly connected world, I frankly did not see another network more powerful than that of USC's. Two, the location. I knew being in Los Angeles would open doors for me just by the sheer breadth of opportunity offered here - opportunities in virtually every industry imaginable. (Also, I love the weather and love being close to my family and friends!) Three, the education. I love learning and want to grow in my understanding of business fundamentals in order to better position myself in society. Four, I loved the fact that experiential learning opportunities are part of the curriculum, most notably PRIME (an international trip). While we were not able to do it this spring due to university guidelines, I am hopeful my class will be able to do it next year before we graduate! Five, I love USC. While my dad was a UCLA fan, I grew up a USC fan, and am grateful I get to be here as a student!

Languages Spoken:
English (fluent, native), Spanish (intermediate)

Undergraduate University:
Loyola Marymount University