Armin Maghsoudlou, UGA Terry MBA Class of 2027
Age: 30
Hometown: Richmond Hill, ON
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Wilfrid Laurier University, Finance
(Also have MS in Computer Science from Depaul University)
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Software / Machine Learning Engineer, Aviva Insurance, 3 years; System Integration Engineer, Ericsson (Telecom industry), 1 year; Data Analyst, Direct Link (Data Analytics Company), 1 year
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
My primary motivation to attend business school is to do a career pivot from the software engineering side of things to the product & strategy side of things. I’m hoping to leverage my technical background along with the leadership skills I gain from an MBA to successfully make the pivot.
Why did you choose Terry College of Business? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose UGA Terry because its culture and values fit the environment where I know I can grow. Terry is known for being inclusive and collaborative, and I wanted a place where people support each other and bring their authentic selves.
The network and alumni community were also important. I was looking for mentorship and genuine connections, and Terry’s grads are supportive. The motto, “to teach, to serve, and to inquire into the nature of things,” speaks to my goals for learning and giving back. Plus, the focus on experiential learning and capstone projects made sure I’d get hands-on experience solving real problems.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
I’d say it would be my collaborative mindset and willingness to help others succeed. I enjoy connecting with classmates from different backgrounds, working as a team, and bringing a positive, supportive attitude to group projects and the community.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I used to play competitive basketball in high school and got to play with a bunch of people that ended up going pro.
Post-MBA career interests:
Post-MBA I hope to get into product management, strategy, tech consulting or similar roles where I can leverage my technical skills along with the skills I gain from the MBA program.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
One thing that I would absolutely do again is to reach out to current students and get their prospective and ask questions. It’s one thing to read about the program but another to actually talk to someone who is in it. Doing research on potentials schools was a big part of the application process for me.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I didn’t get a chance to do any campus visits prior to the start of my program but I would definitely recommend any prospective student visit the schools they are seriously considering at least once to get a better feel for the school, environment, city and culture. I got lucky and Athens, GA turned out to be an amazing town, but not everyone will share that same luck so try to get a campus visit in.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I wouldn’t have changed any part of the process. It all contributes to making the MBA experience what it is.
What is your initial impression of the Georgia Terry students/culture/community?
In one word it’s amazing. I did a good amount of research prior to coming to Athens and had high expectations but somehow it has managed to surpass my expectations. Southern hospitality is definitely woven into the fabric of the community.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
I joined the consulting club to better prepare for case interviews. Will potentially join other student orgs as well.
What is one thing you have learned about Georgia Terry that has surprised you?
One thing that genuinely surprised me about Georgia Terry College of Business is how deeply its culture and motto “to teach, to serve, and to inquire into the nature of things” show up in everyday campus life. I expected solid academics and experienced faculty, but I didn’t realize how collaborative and supportive the environment would be. The sense of community here goes well beyond the rankings. Students and professors here help each other succeed, both in and out of the classroom.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
One thing I’m most excited about in my first year is getting to know my classmates, professors, and others in the Terry/UGA/Athens community. I’m looking forward to connecting with people from different backgrounds, learning from their experiences, and building relationships that will last beyond business school.
