Caleigh Christensen, UGA Terry MBA Class of 2027
Age: 26
Hometown: Johns Creek, GA
Undergraduate Institution and Major: University of Arkansas, B.S. Mathematics, Concentration in Statistics
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Senior Consultant, IT Consulting, CGI, Inc., 4 years
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I was getting pasted up for internal promotions and leadership work at my company, which made me realize that my STEM background needed some business content and leadership development. Therefore, I decided to go back to school for my business degree so that I can re-enter the workforce in a leadership position.
Why did you choose Terry College of Business? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
The Terry College of Business was the right choice for me for many reasons, including location, cost and course options. I wanted to stay in or near Georgia because of my family and location to Atlanta, which is a major hub for several companies. Terry College of Business has an incredible return on investment, lower than average in-state tuition and several scholarship/graduate assistantship opportunities. And UGA offers several project-based courses working with local companies that will provide real-life project work that I can take with me to my future company.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
My background in Mathematics and IT consulting is a unique combination that allows me to stand out in quantitative ways among my classmates and companies.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I enjoy running Tough Mudder and Spartan Races.
Post-MBA career interests:
Project Management or Internal Consulting in the Operations/Supply Chain Area
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Apply early! There are more opportunities for scholarships/graduate assistantships, and you have more time to find housing and prep for school by completing resume updates, pre-school foundation courses, leaving your job, etc.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would reach out to my co-workers for my letter of recommendation(s) later in the process. I initially reached out too early, and it created a ‘lull-period’ where they knew about the letter, but it was too early to work on and submit it.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I would skip studying for and taking the GMAT. Terry College of Business provided the criteria you needed to be approved for a GMAT wavier. I met the criteria before preparing for and taking the GMAT, so I could have used that time for other tasks.
What is your initial impression of the Georgia Terry students/culture/community?
It is a close-knit community that supports each other through class work and job searches. This is one community working together rather than a group of individuals fighting against each other.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
Graduate Business Association (GBA) and MBA Nonprofit Board Fellows (NPBF). I want to continue to grow and develop my leadership skills, while helping my community.
What is one thing you have learned about Georgia Terry that has surprised you?
The community support among your classmates, professors and alumni is incredible. Everyone wants you to succeed!
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am excited to get to know everyone in the program both academically/professionally and personally.
