Ryan Varela
Program Entry: Fall 2025
Undergraduate Institution: North Central College
Hometown: Ketchikan, AK
Reason you chose the MRA Program:
I have spent about a decade working in high-growth startups within Go-To Market teams, as well as four years coaching football and teaching third grade. The ability to identify, plan and mitigate risk has been essential to all of my roles across industries. When I found this program, it felt like it was made for me. Whether you’re talking to an executive director or an eight-year-old, I’ve found that the ability to process data and connect it to the narrative you’re telling is one of the most undervalued skills in life.
NC State’s MRA program allows me to learn new analytical skills with hands-on work and proven frameworks. Through this program, I have been able to apply what I’m learning in the classroom to my current role as the Founding Customer Success Manager at an EdTech startup. Strengthening my skills in Tableau allows me to easily create interactive dashboards for our partners, giving them greater visibility into the partnership. As I look to advance into leadership or entrepreneurial roles in my career, the program gives me the technical skills and confidence needed to lead.
Contact: grvarela@ncsu.edu
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gryanvarela/