MBA Education Path to Diversity Scholar Profile: Jina Choi
(One of a continuing series of profiles of participants in the MBA Education Path to Diversity (P2D) Scholarship Program, which enables employees from diverse backgrounds to advance their professional growth and career development.)
MBA NEWSLINK: Tell us about yourself.
JINA CHOI: I am Vice President of Enterprise Innovation with loandepot.com, involved with any new technology that is introduced for operational efficiency. Responsible for launching any pilots with any new potential vendors. Manage a team of 7 that report under me, we fall under the larger Enterprise Innovation team lead by Elijah Pallante, who reports directly to our COO, Tammy Richards. 15 years in the industry, BS from University of California-Irvine, wife and mother of two (a 3.5- and a 1-year-old).
NEWSLINK: How did you learn about the MBA Path to Diversity Program?
CHOI: It was sent to me by my then-boss, asking if I was interested in applying.
NEWSLINK: What inspired you to become more involved? Did a co-worker/supervisor/mentor encourage your participation?
CHOI: My supervisors at LoanDepot, in each department that I’ve been in, have always encouraged additional learnings and participation to better educate myself regarding the industry.
NEWSLINK: Did you find the application process to be user-friendly?
CHOI: Yes, quite.
NEWSLINK: How has the Path to Diversity scholarship benefited you, personally and professionally?
CHOI: It’s allowed me to meet and network with colleagues in the same industry who come from different backgrounds and operations. Professionally, it has educated me! It is a wonderful educational opportunity.
NEWSLINK: What have you been able to bring back to your company as a result of the Path to Diversity program?
CHOI: A better understanding of what happens from the beginning to end of the loan process. Education that is typically received when working in said department, is reviewed, explained, and magically condensed into a one-week crash course!
NEWSLINK: What would you say to someone considering applying for a Path to Diversity scholarship?
CHOI: Do it, you won’t regret it.
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About the MBA Path to Diversity Scholarship Program
The Path to Diversity Scholarship Program recognizes existing industry professionals who are seeking to advance their careers through continuing education. Recipients receive a voucher to cover course registration fees, up to a maximum of $2,000, for popular MBA Education courses and designation programs. This education opportunity enables employees from diverse backgrounds to advance their professional growth and career development.
MBA recognizes that a strong, responsible and sustainable real estate finance industry requires a workforce that is reflective of our society at large.
For more information about the Path to Diversity Scholarship Program, click: https://www.mba.org/conferences-and-education/mba-education/path-to-diversity.
