Andres Guerrero

Professionals - Evening
Current Industry/Job: Investment Management
From: Brownsville, TX

Favorite quote and why:

I don't necessarily have a favorite quote, but there is one saying that particularly resonates with me - "if you can't love yourself, how are you going to love somebody else?" I think this particular saying embraces the idea of accepting yourself for who you are, but also being proud of everything that makes you different. In the end, the things that make you unique will be the reasons why people love you. You'll have to trust me on that one.

If you could choose anyone, who would you pick as your mentor and why?

If I could choose anyone as a mentor, I would pick the late Alexander McQueen. I think his vision of life, art and fashion was truly unique and challenged all norms. Most importantly, it was his controversial design aesthetic that resulted in the admiration of his fans. He was fearless, and he succeeded in making people fall in love with the unexpected. While it might be a huge fail and burst into flames, having someone so extreme as a mentor would, for better or worse, help me learn new lessons about my life.

Best memory from your first year in the MBA program:

My favorite memory of year one is the Seattle trek. One night at PCF, one of my friends shared he had signed up for the Seattle trek, and five minutes later, we were convincing our entire section to go. It was a very spontaneous decision, and those that were able to make it would agree that it was an amazing experience. It’s never a bad idea to explore a new city with a bunch of friends, so I encourage everyone to take advantage of the opportunity.

What story does your family always tell about you?

My family will always share stories about how I have the worst sweet tooth -- trust me, there are plenty. I think my favorite is about how growing up my mom could never get a picture of me next to my birthday cake before I stuck my finger into it to lick the frosting. Can't say much has changed since then. I'm just better about concealing the damage.

What advice would you like to provide incoming students?

If you are doing this program to check a box, you are doing it for the wrong reason. Challenge your way of thinking, push yourself out of your comfort zone, and embrace the opportunity to meet new people. You will gain many things through your readings, assignments and lectures, but you will gain even more through your experiences outside the classroom. Finally, be a good team member/classmate. Be respectful, express your point of view, and most importantly, don't be afraid to admit when you are wrong.

Any additional unique facts you would like to share:

I like to think I’m a pretty good salsa dancer. I also make a pretty good salsa.