Anne Burke Baldridge
Kenan-Flagler Business School, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Hometown: Roanoke, Virginia
High School: Patrick Henry High School
Major: Business Administration and Global Studies
Favorite Business Courses: Mergers and Acquisitions, Strategic Management, Venture Capital and Startups
Extracurricular Activities, Community Work and Leadership Roles During College:
- Phi Beta Kappa, University of North Carolina
- Robertson Scholar, University of North Carolina and Duke University
- Carolina Challenge (Start-Up Competition), Director, University of North Carolina
- Undergraduate Honor Court Member, University of North Carolina
- Chancellor’s Student Innovation Team Member, University of North Carolina
- Chancellor’s Student Advisory Committee Member, University of North Carolina
- Habitat for Humanity Volunteer
Where have you interned during your college career? (List Companies, Locations and Roles)
- J.P. Morgan – New York; Summer Analyst, Investment Bank, Consumer/Retail Coverage Group
- Environmental Defense Fund – New York; Marketing and Communications Intern
Describe your dream job: One day I hope to own a small vineyard that combines traditional, innovative and sustainable techniques to produce celebrated wines.
What did you enjoy most about majoring in a business-related field? For me, the most rewarding aspect about studying business was its clear practical application. Whether I was in a marketing course or taking corporate finance, the direct connection between our in-class discussions and real-world challenges made me excited for opportunities beyond UNC Kenan-Flagler.
Where would you like to work after graduation? J.P. Morgan Corporate and Investment Bank – Analyst, Consumer/Retail Coverage Group
What are your long-term professional goals? I hope to be a partner at a venture capital firm investing in high-impact start-ups that seek to make transformational change in their communities.
“I knew I wanted to major in business when…I started working with Carolina Challenge, our university’s start-up competition, during my freshmen year. As a member of the executive team responsible for organizing the competition, I was inspired by the innovative venture ideas. I realized that I wanted to find a career that would allow me to connect companies with the financial resources they need to compete and grow.”
“If I didn’t major in business, I would be…studying international relations and hoping to join the foreign service with the State Department.”
What was the happiest moment of your life? I have been fortunate to travel a lot with my family, and my happiest moments are scattered throughout these trips. My favorite memories are hiking the Wind River Range in Wyoming, sipping wine in Napa, and taking a road trip through France and Germany. I have been lucky to spend time in beautiful places with great people, and I am excited for more adventures to come.
Which academic or personal achievement are you most proud of? In the summer of 2014, I designed and completed an independent research project on the competitiveness of European cities as international financial centers. Over the course of eight weeks, I travelled to London, Geneva, Zurich, Frankfurt and Berlin and interviewed leaders in finance and academia to identify key determinants of each city’s strength. While the experience was rewarding academically, it was more fulfilling on a personal level. It forced me out of my comfort zone, challenged me to take risks, and allowed me to make connections with brilliant thought leaders across Europe.
What animal would you choose to represent your professional brand? The monarch butterfly – their migration requires great determination and effort, but they also remain poised and graceful.
Who would you most want to thank for your success? I would like to thank my parents. They inspired my curiosity, reminded me the importance of humility, and encouraged me to always consider the impact of my decisions on others. Without the responsibility, freedom, and support they gave me when I was younger, I would not be where I am today.
Fun fact about yourself: My family has hosted six exchange students, and in high school, I traveled on an exchange to St. Lo, France.
Favorite book: Unbroken, Laura Hillenbrand
Favorite movie: The Parent Trap
Favorite musical performer: O.A.R. circa 2006
Favorite vacation spot: Napa, California; The Homestead in Hot Springs, Virginia
What are your hobbies? Travelling, running, cooking, trying new restaurants, cheering for UNC sports
What made Anne such an invaluable addition to the Class of 2016?
“Anne Burke is a very well-rounded, accomplished and impressive individual. She embodies the UNC Kenan-Flagler core values of excellence, leadership, integrity, community and Teamwork. Her exceptionally strong academic performance and leadership experiences helped Anne become a highly coveted Robertson Scholar. Anne Burke has held multiple leadership roles at UNC, including Honor Court Member and Junior Class Representative. Her experience as the CEO of the Carolina Challenge helped propel one of the School’s premier entrepreneurship events to new heights. Additionally, Anne’s professionalism distinguished her on a selective Finance Trek to New York City, which was instrumental in her landing a highly competitive internship and then a full-time role on Wall Street. In short, she personifies all that UNC Kenan-Flagler stands for and we are very proud to have her as one of our students.”
David Vogel
Co-Director of the Undergraduate Business Program
Kenan-Flagler Business School, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
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