Joshua T. Hodge, Cambridge Judge MBA Class of 2025
Age: 25
Hometown: Asheboro, North Carolina, USA
Undergraduate Institution and Major: University of North Carolina at Greensboro, B.A. Economics B.A. Religious Studies
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I decided to attend business school after getting out of the US Marine Corps. I had a former professor who had an MBA, and he always encouraged me to get my MBA at a top b-school. After getting out of the military, I decided that now was the perfect time, as I am changing careers and my life entirely.
Why did you choose Cambridge Judge? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I love Europe and traveling the world. I knew I wanted to start my life in Europe, and so I applied for Cambridge. The biggest factor that made me choose Cambridge over other universities was the beautiful campus and a large scholarship I received for being in the military.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2025?
My experience in the military as a legal officer is definitely unique. My experience in the Marine Corps while working in administration, but also being trained in Platoon level Infantry tactics is something not many people get to do. I really want to learn from my peers and meet the most brilliant minds in the world.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I have a strong passion and love for Turkish culture. I plan on moving to Türkiye after my MBA. I am currently learning Turkish and I hope to reach the C-1 level by the end of my studies at Cambridge.
Post-MBA career interests:
I want to work in Higher Education Administration, preferably based out of Türkiye.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
The most important part is crafting your story of IMPACT. Too many people fall into the trap of trying to use large words or impress with stories of promotions, but the most important thing is how you made an impact. Whenever you were. Whether you were a major decision maker at a large consulting firm, or just a squadron level legal officer in the military, ensure your letters demonstrate impact. How did you change people’s lives?
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would spend more time crafting quality letters for scholarships. Ensure you understand which scholarships you qualify for, and spend a lot of time working on those essays. There is nothing worse than getting accepted to your dream university, and then thinking you won’t be able to go due to course fees and tuition.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
We had to do Online interviews first where we answered a random prompt in 45 seconds before our official “face-to-face” interview. You utilize a platform called Kara (I think). I remember my first interview was absolutely terrible. I ran out of time mid story. It was definitely stressful. If I could have skipped that, I would have.
What is your initial impression of the Cambridge Judge students/culture/community?
The students are very engaged and excited. Everyone is friendly and wants to meet up and connect. Even before classes start. The culture is what you expect from a prestigious institution like Cambridge University. Everyone holds themselves to a higher standard, without being arrogant.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
I will join an MMA club, a theater club, and be apart of multiple religious groups to learn more about Christianity and Islam.
What is one thing you have learned about Cambridge Judge that has surprised you?
How diverse the faculty is. There are professors from everywhere. I found many Turkish and American professors that I am excited to connect with and learn from.
What is one thing you are most excited about?
How many things there are to do. There are hundreds of clubs. Then, the city of Cambridge has a lot to do things to do too. I feel like I can take on so many new hobbies, and never get bored. I am excited to learn more about the world and start my life in Europe.
