About Jesús: Growing up in Puebla, Mexico, Jesús learned early on the value of resilience and determination through experiences like winning a regional charrería competition despite initial setbacks. After earning a degree in Economics from ITAM, he built a successful career in Investment Banking and Corporate Development, working with government agencies and major corporations. Driven by a vision to create ventures that combine innovation and social responsibility, Jesús chose UCLA Anderson to pivot into entrepreneurship. They’re particularly passionate about real estate entrepreneurship, and disruptive technologies, with a focus on creating lasting impact.

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How can an MBA, which requires significant financial investment and often leads to student debt, support the inherently risky endeavor of starting a company?

It’s a paradox that gave me pause as I considered my MBA journey. Starting a company involves risk, uncertainty, and often requires upfront capital—exactly what an MBA can seem to drain. However, what I’ve discovered at UCLA Anderson is that this program is more than worth the investment. It doesn’t just prepare you to take the leap into entrepreneurship; it builds the foundation for you to do so confidently, strategically, and with a support network that makes all the difference.

Here’s how Anderson has been pivotal in my entrepreneurial pivot:

1. Structuring the Unstructured

Entrepreneurship is inherently unstructured—it’s full of trial and error, ambiguity, and high stakes. Anderson’s curriculum, lectures, and experiential learning opportunities bring clarity to that chaos.

Courses like Entrepreneurship and Venture Initiation don’t just teach you theory; they immerse you in real-world scenarios, helping you analyze successful entrepreneurs, identify venture opportunities, and craft sustainable business models. Professors like Abe and Schollhammer provide a roadmap, helping you avoid common pitfalls, save time, and ultimately save money—money that can be reinvested into your future venture.

Through programs like the Business Creation Program (BCP) and Venture Accelerator, I’ve been able to test ideas in a low-risk, high-reward environment, gaining invaluable insights and feedback along the way.

2. The Power of the Anderson Network

One of the most unexpected gifts of this program is the power of the UCLA Anderson name. It’s more than just a credential—it’s a key that unlocks doors worldwide.

A personal anecdote highlights this perfectly: When I participated in the National Real Estate Challenge (NREC) at UT Austin, I met a professional with extensive experience in Texas commercial real estate. Within five minutes of conversation, he offered to coach me on cross-border real estate development. This wasn’t an isolated experience. A close friend at Anderson secured a meeting with Spain’s leading search fund investor firm after just a couple of emails.

The network is vast, approachable, and incredibly generous. Whether it’s faculty, alumni, or classmates, Anderson embodies its “Share Success” motto in every interaction.

3. Unmatched Resources for Entrepreneurs

Anderson’s entrepreneurship ecosystem is comprehensive and robust. The Price Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation offers fellowships, courses, and research initiatives. The Venture Accelerator provides year-round advising, helping early-stage startups thrive.

Through the Entrepreneur Association, I’ve attended idea workshops, career fairs, and dinners with founders—all of which have helped me sharpen my vision and connect with like-minded peers. Anderson’s 12+ electives in entrepreneurship, many of them hands-on, give practical tools and exposure needed to succeed in the competitive world of startups.

4. A Culture of Collaboration and Diversity

Anderson’s “Share Success” philosophy isn’t just a tagline—it’s a way of life. The community is incredibly supportive, with students, alumni, and faculty all eager to help you succeed.

The diversity at Anderson is equally inspiring. Here, you’ll meet peers pursuing careers in entertainment, healthcare, tech, real estate, and, of course, entrepreneurship. This melting pot of backgrounds and aspirations creates an environment where collaboration thrives, and entrepreneurs gain exposure to ideas and industries they might never encounter elsewhere.

5. Shaping Leadership Through Practice

At Anderson, leadership isn’t taught—it’s practiced. Nearly every event, company visit, and academic initiative is student-led, offering countless opportunities to refine leadership skills in a safe, controlled environment.

For me, this has been invaluable. Whether organizing events as Director of Events for Anderson Real Estate Association or collaborating on projects in class, I’ve been able to discover and define my own leadership style. Anderson challenges us to think fearlessly, aim high, and embrace responsibility—all essential traits for any entrepreneur.

Looking Ahead

Investing in an MBA might seem counterintuitive for someone looking to start a business, but at Anderson, it’s an investment that pays for itself many times over. The tools, resources, and connections I’ve gained here have set me on a path to not just build a venture, but to build one that creates lasting impact.

As I reflect on my journey, I’m reminded of the paradox I once worried about: How could I justify this investment while pursuing such an uncertain dream? The answer is clear now. The MBA isn’t just a degree; it’s a launchpad. And thanks to Anderson, I’m ready to take the leap.

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• Student Blogger: Jesús Solana ’26
• Undergrad: Instituto Tecnológico Autónomo de México
• Pre-MBA: Subdirector of Corporate Development at Santander
• Leadership@Anderson: Director of Events at AREA and AAC, Director of Family Business at the Entrepreneur Association