Associate Dean of Admissions Shari Hubert tells us what you need to know before applying to Georgetown, what the ideal candidate looks like and what separates their MBA from other top US b-schools
Prior to joining the admissions team at Georgetown McDonough School of Business, Shari Hubert worked within the US Federal Government's Peace Corps, where she was responsible for recruiting 4000 volunteers a year. Before that, she was Vice President of Campus Recruitment for Citi’s Global Bank in North America. And before that, she worked at GE's Corporate Headquarters, where she served as Manager, Campus Relations in Corporate Recruiting and Staffing. It is fair to say she knows a thing or two-dozen about recruiting.Now, she has the power to make or break prospective MBAs dreams at the Washington, DC based university. She tells us what you need to know before applying to Georgetown, what the admissions team looks for in a candidate and what separates the McDonough School of Business from the rest of the top b-schools in the US.
What are common mistakes that you see MBA applicants make?
Sometimes, candidates do not think about why they are interested in pursuing the MBA. We look for students who are able to articulate that in an essay. We value students who are really honest and who take an assessment of their strengths and how they feel they can quantify those into other areas in post-MBA life. It’s important that they articulate what the MBA will do for them.
We look for inconsistences in the different aspects of the application process. Applicants should not be able to submit the same application for multiple schools. We can tell if someone is copying and pasting the same information for different business schools and just changing the name of the school. Make sure the essay is tailored to the school.
What do prospective MBAs need to know about Georgetown?
A lot! They need to know about our graduate heritage: we are a Jesuit institution founded in 1789 with a rich tradition of service to others. We really live our values and that makes Georgetown very unique. Our class size is a bit smaller than other MBA classes, and that means that students really feel a sense of community. They have access to faculty and faculty care about them, not just the grades that they get in class, but also how well they are doing overall in the program – it is a very collaborative environment.
What does an ideal Georgetown MBA candidate look like?
We develop principled leaders who will make an impact in both business and society; people who care not only about what they do but how they get it done. We are looking for people with a strong executive presence, who have conviction in terms of what their aspirations and goals are, and confidence in their ability to achieve them.
We want students who are prepared to participate in the classroom and who fit into our classroom dynamic. We want people who can demonstrate cultural awareness and sensitivity, because our program is so global. They do not need extensive travel experience, but they should have an appreciation for different cultures. We want someone who will make Georgetown proud; someone who can be an active and engaged alumnus is important for us as well.
What are some tips you have for impressing the MBA admissions team at Georgetown?
The admissions process is a holistic assessment, and we look at everything from the admissions essay to resumes, recommendations and the interview. It’s not just one individual aspect that makes a great candidate; we look at the entire person as a whole and decide whether that person is going to benefit from the MBA and be able to be successful in future endeavours.
Can you tell us a bit about the interview process?
In the interview, we focus on the individual applicant to help them decide if Georgetown is the right fit for them. The interview is both an opportunity for us to evaluate an applicant and an opportunity for the applicant to evaluate us. I would encourage prospective students to ask us the hard questions as well.
People should relax and look at the interview as a conversation and really try to get to know the admissions person in front of them. It’s the applicants’ opportunity to tell us and show us what is unique about them, and how they will stand out and be successful in our program!
What separates Georgetown from other leading American Business Schools?
I think we are on par with all the top business schools in terms of the calibre of education and types of courses. What’s unique about us is our curriculum: it is very integrated, global in scope and team-taught. Our philosophy is based on learning and knowledge to put into practice, as opposed to just for knowledge’s sake.
I would also say that we have really good entrepreneurial and real estate initiatives, and various centres focused on ethics, financial markets, social enterprise, and business policy. For an individual looking for a particular type of industry, these initiatives and centres are run by top-rate faculty who really care about students and their ability to secure internships and full-time jobs.
Through our entrepreneurship initiative, we run an incubator during the summer and tons of events throughout the school year; we also have a venture capital competition so MBAs can pitch their ideas to firms. A lot of support is provided so that students at Georgetown are able to succeed.
What are some of the best things about getting an MBA in America?
In America there are a lot of great institutions such as Georgetown that really provide you with a great foundation in management and business administration - not just in theory, but in practice. By virtue of being in the United States, there are great, successful companies. It is a benefit of studying not only at Georgetown but in the United States. Business education as an industry is very mature.
What are some of the types of roles MBA graduates from Georgetown go into?
The top industries are the typical MBA careers such as finance and consulting. But it’s interesting that we have started to see students entering social entrepreneurial areas as well. We have a strong Net Impact student club and Global Social Enterprise Initiative, and we see a lot more students coming from the social sector or going into non-profit types of opportunities as well.
How does the career services department at Georgetown help MBAs get jobs?
A lot of our students want to stay in the United States for at least a couple of years post-MBA. We are proud of the fact that from our class of 2012, 71% of international students got paid positions in the United States.
All of our students are assigned a career coach. There are career coaches who focus especially on international students, helping them develop a two-pronged strategy to obtain internships and full-time jobs - focused in the United States and at the same time in their home country.
We also offer lifetime career services for our alumni. Last year, 92 per cent of our students were employed within the first 3 months of graduation, with the average starting salary close to $100,000, and 70 per cent of our rising second-year MBAs found internships directly as a result of the career services office.
Student Reviews
Georgetown: McDonough School of Business
GWU - excellent investment for future
George Washington University is a good respected institution with strong programs in various studies, including project management, international affairs, politics, medicine and etc. The university provides students with good opportunities for internships and networking.
GWU has a diverse student body and a reputation for academic excellence.
Safety on campus
I have had an amazing experience at Georgetown University. The classes are enjoyable, the professors are exceptional, and I feel like I am receiving a worthwhile education. The people and faculty at this institution are extraordinary, and I have discovered my true self while being here. Additionally, I always feel secure on campus, as it is the safest place in town.
Georgetown is on top!
I've been enjoying this school so far. I wouldn't alter it, despite the fact that the school is on a hill and that it requires a lot of walking to get around it. For minority and first-generation students, there are a ton of services available. Even though the usual dorm rooms are modest, there is still plenty of area for storage. We have a ton of alternatives every day in the dining halls since they provide so many different dishes from so many different cultures
Physical and mental health
Georgetown is my second home. The pre-professional counselors are incredibly helpful, and I feel supported and inspired to pursue my aspirations. We are certainly ranked as the top research university in the nation. They place a high priority on the development of the students as well as their physical and mental well-being.
Wonderful university
Georgetown University is wonderful. The school's amazing diversity is one of its greatest strengths. The athletes are extremely committed to their sport, and the campus is amazing. The dorms are excellent! They are comfortable and spacious. If you ever find yourself bored on campus, you can always go off campus; it's fantastic. You'll never get bored dining in the cafeteria because the food is so delicious on campus.
Academics
The university's academics are what really set it apart; the lecturers are kind and motivating. Although it can be challenging to connect with the majority of students because they are so intense and competitive, social life and student life are what you make of them. It is undoubtedly a very difficult four years that are challenging to get through. But in the end, it strengthens you and provides you with a wealth of knowledge and incredible prospects.
Fantastic university
Georgetown university is a Fantastic university. The professors are outstanding, there are lots of ways to participate in campus life, and there are numerous groups and organizations where students can get involved. The campus is lovely and always kept clean, and there are people are willing to assist you 24 hours a day whenever you need help.
Review of Georgetown university
Being at Georgetown university has been one of my best experiences. The Professors are knowledgeable, approachable, and very helpful. You will fall in love with Georgetown because of its daily activities, the vibrant students you will encounter, the food served on campus, and the lush surroundings. The housing and dorms are fantastic. There is no better place than Georgetown University if you’re looking to study, discover new things, make lifelong friends, and have fun!
Academically challenging institution
Georgetown University is certainly an academically challenging institution, however, if you ask for assistance when you need it, the workload can be managed. Students are happy to assist one another, and most Professor want you to succeed. Student life is vibrant, the location is excellent and everyone here is friendly and welcoming.
4 Years as an Expat at Georgetown University
Georgetown University provided an exceptional environment for my academic journey as an expat from Italy. As someone who initially felt apprehensive about moving to a new country, Georgetown quickly alleviated my concerns and made my transition incredibly smooth.
One of the standout features of Georgetown is its diverse and welcoming community, particularly for international students. The campus is teeming with students from various corners of the globe, fostering a rich cultural tapestry that made me feel right at home. The vibrant campus life and numerous extracurricular activities offered ample opportunities to connect with fellow students, ensuring a well-rounded and fulfilling university experience.
Georgetown's unique setting within the heart of Washington, DC, adds another layer to its charm. While the university is situated in the bustling city, the campus in the historic area of Georgetown provides a distinct and almost intimate atmosphere. This blend creates a truly unique feel and contributes to an unforgettable educational experience.
Initially enrolled in the College with a desire to major in Linguistics and minor in Art & Journalism, I appreciated the flexibility and openness of the Georgetown education system. After my freshman year, I discovered my true passion lay in Marketing and International Business. The university's seamless transfer process allowed me to transition to the McDonough Business School, where I found the perfect fit for my academic aspirations.
Georgetown's commitment to helping students explore and find their academic niche is indeed one of its most commendable qualities. The ability to explore various subjects before settling on a major is a testament to the university's dedication to fostering individual growth and success. The journey from Linguistics to Marketing & International Business exemplifies the beauty of a Georgetown education — a dynamic and supportive environment where students can discover and pursue their true passions.
In conclusion, Georgetown University provided not only a top-notch academic education but also a transformative and enriching experience. From the welcoming international community to the unique campus setting and the flexibility to explore diverse academic paths, Georgetown stands out as a beacon of higher education that truly caters to the individual journey of each student.
My experience at Georgetown university
My time at Georgetown University has been an incredibly enriching and transformative experience. From the moment I stepped onto campus, it was clear that Georgetown offers a unique blend of rigorous academics, vibrant community, and unparalleled opportunities.
Academic Excellence: The academic environment at Georgetown is nothing short of exceptional. The faculty members are not only experts in their fields but are also deeply committed to student success. Their passion for teaching and mentoring has been instrumental in my academic growth. The curriculum is challenging yet rewarding, fostering critical thinking and a global perspective that is essential in today’s world. The emphasis on interdisciplinary studies allowed me to explore a range of subjects and develop a well-rounded understanding of complex issues.
Campus Life: Georgetown’s campus life is vibrant and inclusive. The sense of community is palpable, with a diverse range of student organizations, events, and activities that cater to a variety of interests. From engaging in thought-provoking discussions in seminars to participating in lively campus traditions, there’s never a dull moment. The university’s location in Washington, D.C., provides countless opportunities for internships, networking, and real-world experiences, further enriching the college experience.
Facilities and Resources: The university boasts state-of-the-art facilities that enhance both academic and extracurricular pursuits. The libraries, research centers, and study spaces are well-equipped and conducive to learning. Additionally, the campus itself is beautiful and historic, offering a serene and inspiring environment for students.
Support and Community: One of the standout aspects of Georgetown is the strong sense of community and support. The university fosters a culture of collaboration and mutual respect, creating a nurturing environment where students can thrive. The dedication to student well-being is evident in the various support services available, from academic advising to mental health resources.
Engaging curriculum
Amazing curriculum, staff and overall program. Proud and riveting history. Location is ideal, in the middle of a historic neighborhood in our nations capital. So many things to do and to learn on and off campus.
