Get to Know MS in Entrepreneurship Student: Suleiny Altamirano Bahena

The MS in Entrepreneurship program is made up of a diverse group of students who come from various backgrounds and experiences. We love to highlight students from the current cohort, so read on to hear more about Suleiny’s journey to the program!

Please tell us your name.Suleiny sitting on a tree stump

Suleiny Altamirano Bahena

Where are you from?

I am from the south of Mexico, Guerrero state. But before coming here I was living in Mexico City.

What did you do before entering this program?

My professional degree is in International Business from the University ITESM-Tec de Monterrey. And a master’s degree in Commercial Strategy-Brand Management. Experience as a Business Developer, Project Manager, and Marketing Specialist.

When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? Did you have any entrepreneurship experience before entering this program?

When I was 13 years old, I started selling candies at my grandma’s place. My family got into the business world. I wanted to take my own path making a positive impact in the community around me. So, I decided to start my own business in a cultural gift store, Tizana Mexicana, for Mexican jewelry and crafts. And I came here to learn how I could make it bigger by keeping traditions alive.

Tell us why you are excited to be a part of the current cohort for the MS ENTRE degree program?

I love how diverse the cohort is. It’s a place where we can have a discussion on a topic from 13 different nationalities, different perspectives and backgrounds. The richness of sharing classes together is amazing. I am excited to learn about my presentation skills, about scaling my business, and learning from the best and wonderful professors. I’m also looking forward to networking with investors and people who can challenge me to grow and to be better.

What advantages do you see to opening a business now?

I feel that there is a lot of unmet need, a lot of problems to solve to make the world a better place. Let’s think as a community. Always there are challenges, but the warrior spirit can take you everywhere. Suleiny standing at the quad at the University of Washington

Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?

I see myself as a leader who inspires others in a positive way. Where I can create my own path as a Latina businesswoman.

What do you like to do for fun?

I love hiking, I understand now why Washington is called the Evergreen State. Being in contact with nature makes me feel alive. Suleiny hiking

What advice would you give to someone who’s thinking about applying to the MS ENTRE degree program?

Definitely worth it. If you want to start a business and you don’t know how? This is the best idea for you. Invest in yourself and your career. Start believing. Also learning about others will help you to polish your business idea and enjoy the adventure with great people. If you are not sure about your business idea, the mindset of business will help you a lot to have structure in the future.

Learn About MS in Entrepreneurship

This post is part of a series where we ask current students to answer questions about their experience at Foster. Explore the 11 questions tag for more interviews.

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