Serena Ditkoff, Georgetown McDonough MBA Class of 2024
Age: 26
Hometown: Amherst, MA
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Ohio State University, Business Marketing
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 5 Years, Danaher Corporation (operates in the environmental, life sciences, and diagnostics industries)
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
As an undergraduate business major, business school was always something that was on my radar. As my work experience prior to Georgetown was very analytical, I knew I wanted to pivot into a function where I could balance this with creativity and innovation. I decided this was the perfect time to attend business school to pursue these goals and dive deeper into other functions in the business world.
Why did you choose Georgetown McDonough? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose Georgetown McDonough due to the school’s culture of collaboration and inclusivity and the location in Washington, DC, which fosters a global mindset.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2024?
My most valuable contribution is my ability to put forward my inclusive and positive mindset to amplify others’ voices and cultivate a sense of belonging.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I have an Australian Shepherd named Finn, who is the perfect hiking buddy and loves to meet new friends on campus!
Post-MBA career interests:
I am interested in marketing roles in the tech and retail industries. It is important to me to work for a company that I am passionate about, and that matches my values.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I found value in speaking to current MBA students and alumni who were able to provide me with insight into what they found valuable when they were going through the application process. This helped me focus my efforts and prioritize so that I could put my best foot forward, and I can’t wait to pay it forward by helping others in the future.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
As a Consortium for Graduate Study in Management fellow, many of my peers found value in participating in MBA prep programs such as Management Leadership for Tomorrow (MLT). I would research these programs early in the application process.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Although I eventually got through studying and taking the GMAT, I would have skipped this by considering taking the GRE instead. I think it is important to consider both as an option and figure out what works best for you.
What is your initial impression of the McDonough students/culture/community?
My initial impression throughout my first couple of months at Georgetown McDonough is that it is an amazingly collaborative and friendly community. Everyone I have met at Georgetown has been welcoming and supportive, making the transition back to school easy.
What is one thing you have learned about McDonough that has surprised you?
I knew coming into school at Georgetown McDonough that I would get to meet a diverse group of people from all around the world, but I didn’t realize the incredible impact that would have on my experience in business school. It has been such a unique opportunity to learn more about others that I would encourage everyone to embrace.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I am anxious about ensuring I am intentional in how I spend my limited time at Georgetown. I would love to do it all, but I know that is not always possible, so figuring out how to prioritize what matters to me the most will be important over the next two years.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am excited to continue developing relationships with my classmates and supporting each other in classes and in securing amazing internships and future jobs!
