Santiago Fuentes, Georgetown McDonough MBA Class of 2027
Age: 33
Hometown: Lima, Peru
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Universidad de Lima, Bachelor in Business Administration
Pre-MBA Work Experience: British American Tobacco (2015-2020), Trade Marketing & Sales Supervisor – Trade Marketing Representative Key Accounts B2B. Alicorp (2020-2024), Head of Trade Marketing B2B – Regional Sales Manager
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
During high school, I had the opportunity to spend a summer studying at Fairfield College Preparatory School in Connecticut. That experience gave me an early glimpse of the U.S. education system and planted in me the desire to one day challenge myself academically outside of my home country.
About four years ago, I decided that pursuing an MBA at a top university was the right next step. However, my career was still evolving. At Alicorp I was entrusted with greater responsibilities so I chose to wait and considered that consolidating more experience would allow me to contribute more to the classroom and benefit more from the program.
Last year I felt it was the perfect time. Today I bring a strong leadership track record and valuable professional experiences, and I also recognize that postponing this decision further might make it too late to fully take advantage of a two-year program
Why did you choose Georgetown McDonough? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
When I was deciding on the right MBA program, a few factors mattered most to me: I wanted a top program in the U.S. with international recognition, a location that would maximize networking and career opportunities, a class size that would let me build real connections with my peers, and a school that aligned with my personal values.
Georgetown McDonough stood out on every level. It’s a legendary institution with global prestige, back home in South America, the name Georgetown immediately resonates, and that reputation goes beyond rankings. Its location in Washington, D.C. gives me access to a unique job market and exposure to international organizations as well as the political sphere. I also appreciate the class size of about 270 students, which feels like the perfect balance: big enough to be diverse, but small enough to truly get to know my classmates. On a more personal note, Georgetown being a Jesuit university felt special to me. I went to a Jesuit high school in Lima, and I value its philosophy of forming “men and women for others.” Knowing that the program shares those values gave me confidence that I’d be part of a community that develops us as both professionals and people.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
I believe my most valuable contribution will be a combination of my leadership experience, my South American background, and my connection to the Jesuit culture of the program. After several years in leadership roles in Peru, I can bring a different perspective on how teams are managed, and projects are executed in an emerging market context. I also hope to enrich my classmates’ experience by sharing an international outlook and by fostering the values of service and community that are central to the Jesuit tradition.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
Before applying to the program, I was a partner in a company focused on crop pollination through beekeeping. When working with a client, we often had to move the hives and then inspect their condition. On one of these inspections, I made the critical mistake of opening the mask of my suit, and several bees immediately got inside. I ended up with five stings at once. One sting is already painful, five is definitely not recommended!
Post-MBA career interests:
My goal is to pivot to a position in strategy consulting.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Something that was very helpful was talking to students who were currently pursuing the MBA and alumni of the program. The application process can be challenging and raise many questions, which is why I believe there’s no better source of information to clarify doubts than listening to people who have already gone through the experience and can give you firsthand information and a feel of the community inside the program.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would apply early. In my case, I waited to apply until the third round, and honestly, that’s not ideal. While it’s true that you have more time to write essays and prepare for interviews, it’s good to consider that there are more spots available in the early rounds, which can help your profile stand out more and help you avoid the stress of everything that comes next, for example: the process of moving out or applying for your F1 visa, especially for international students.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Standardized tests! The truth is, I’ve never been very good at taking tests, especially long ones, and I have shown my strengths on the field. I tried both the GMAT and the GRE to see which suited me best, but I think the most important thing in this process is to stay organized and maintain the discipline to continue preparing even if the initial results aren’t what you expected. At the time, I would have liked to see the bigger picture and not be so hard on myself. It’s important to understand that the exam is only one part of the application.
What is your initial impression of the Georgetown McDonough students/culture/community?
I feel at home. Despite being thousands of miles away from Peru, at MSB I’ve found a close-knit community that always welcomes help with whatever you need. I’ve had the pleasant surprise of confirming what alumni told me. From day one, I’ve met many people with whom I know I’ll forge lifelong friendships, and I’ve noticed how every member of the program, from the professors to the admissions team, cares about our overall success as individuals and professionals. I’ve also seen how second-year students are always willing to give up their time to answer questions or guide you with whatever you need, and the leaders involved in clubs and other program organizations are committed to ensuring that we all receive the information we need to get the most out of our program and enjoy while having fun with all the activities that they offer.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
For this first year, I joined the Tech and Consulting Clubs, and as a true South American sports fan, I also joined the Soccer Club.
What is one thing you have learned about Georgetown McDonough that has surprised you?
The diversity of backgrounds in the program. I was surprised by the composition of the class and all the considerations MSB takes when designing it. Also, something I can’t help but mention are the KEGS Thursdays! It’s truly surprising how often the entire class participates in these integration events for MBAs.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
There are many things I’m excited about, but I can mention two in particular. First, continuing to meet and build friendships with my classmates; MSB has made sure to assemble a bright and kind group for this year’s class. And second, participating in the soccer club championships, where we’ll compete against teams from other business schools.
