Q&A With MBA Student Imani Coney
Imani Coney (she/her)
MBA Class of 2024
What is your quick elevator speech?
I am an MBA candidate at the Tepper School of Business. I am actively involved in the Business & Technology Club, Marketing Club, and Black Business Association. Prior to business school, I earned my bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from Prairie View A&M University.
After graduating, I worked in the management consulting industry for five years where I led multiple business and technology integration projects. Post MBA, I would like to work in marketing as a brand manager within the consumer packaged goods industry.
Tell us something about you. What is your favorite ice cream flavor? How do you take your coffee/tea?
I drink coffee almost every day, sometimes twice a day, with just two creams. My favorite ice cream flavors are Moose Tracks, and this special flavor is called Cookie Two Step, made exclusively by Blue Bell.
What is your most memorable moment from being a Tepper student, so far?
My most memorable moment was sitting on the Tepper Unplugged Student Panel during Diversity Weekend 2022. I recall attending (virtually) as a prospective student just last year, so sharing my experiences thus far and encouraging attendees through the MBA admissions process was a great way to pay it forward.
"I want the world to understand that Black History Month is not just for those that identify as Black or African American...this month is really a time for allies and those considering allyship to show up and support programs and events in their neighborhood."
What is one thing that you want the world to know, acknowledge, or understand about the Black community and/or Black History Month?
I want the world to understand that Black History Month is not just for those that identify as Black or African American. I would go so far to say that this month is really a time for allies and those considering allyship to show up and support programs and events in their neighborhood. Some people may feel that they are not welcome or are impeding on a safe space, but a lot of events and programs are open to anyone.
What is one thing people can do today to support a more inclusive and equitable community here at Tepper?
Knowledge is very powerful, and from my experience, a lot of people are not knowledgeable about Black history or culture. Taking the initiative to learn something new about a different ethnicity is a great way to develop a sense of inclusion and belonging. There are a number of ways to educate oneself from literature and documentaries to attending local events and programs hosted by diverse organizations. If you’re looking for a place to start your research, I’d recommend the resources mentioned on the Tepper website.