There is one bright light amidst the darkness of our current political nightmare; many of us have begun to think more critically about both our complicity in the state of the world and our individual and collective power to affect change.You may not see it day-to-day on the judicial, legislative, and—most of all—executive levels, but within communities, we’ve started to see that righteous indignation spark meaningful discourse on a massive scale.
Although business schools are in a unique position to train people to help harness and magnify the potency of their communities, the reality is that many MBAs don’t. Who can blame them? Those degrees don’t come cheap; when it comes to median salaries, the sad truth is that activism pales in comparison to consulting.
Sticker shock aside, there’s a deeper issue about the nature of business school that HBS Guru Sanford Kreisberg identifies when it comes to why few MBAs are equipped to affect change: “Business schools teach you how to get along, not how to change things; how to fit in, and not how to stand out.”
So, how can MBAs with a yearning to change the system from the inside out actually put their degrees to use when business school seems designed to do just the opposite?
For starters, there are some worthwhile programs that cater to MBAs who want to work in policy. One prime example is the three-year joint MBA/MPP degree, born of a partnership between Harvard Business School and the Kennedy School of Government.
Its mission is “to develop leader who will assume positions of influence spanning business, government, and nonprofit organizations, through which they will contribute significantly to the well-being of society.”
Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business and McCourt School of Public Policy offer a three-year MBA/MPP degree, with students profiting from the university’s close links with government organizations in Washington DC.
Karen Marks of North Star Admissions takes a slightly more optimistic stance on the efficacy of MBAs in the ‘House of Cards’ political era: “American business schools teach students to think fluidly and empathetically. They also teach students to function under ambiguous circumstances, and to leverage key interpersonal skills like diplomacy and negotiations,” she says.
Break Into Tech’s Jeremy Schifeling points out how “MBAs are [successful] case study examples of how to build policy power through your own constituency—not politicians.”
The key? According to Jeremy, it’s all about attracting and retaining happy customers—a lot of them. “Airbnb and Uber were both able to influence local policy without aligning with a single party or political player; but instead, by building a massive base of satisfied customers they could rally to their cause,” he says.
Journalist Emma Dumain, who covers the South Carolina Congressional delegation and state news from Capitol Hill and Washington, DC for McClatchy, draws distinct parallels between government and the politics of business in terms of their “weird cliques, social codes and set of professional standards.”
Working in corporate America, particularly for MBAs with sizable social justice streaks, can often be a gruesome affair—one where ethics and profits are antithetical propositions. The same certainly goes for Capitol Hill where “it can be demoralizing to work for a boss whose value system doesn't always align with yours [and] agonizing to work on a bill that may never become law.”
Emma offers advice to idealistic MBAs who hope to work in government and policy:
“If you care about the work, accept that there will be frustrations and decide whether they outweigh the rewards. A political aide to a member of Congress told me once you'll never work for a lawmaker whose positions you agree with all the time.
“The trick is to find at least a few things that mean as much to you as they do to him or her, and cling to those. That will help you keep your sense of self when it doesn't always seem easy to do so.”
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.
