Hannah Meshulam, Chicago Booth MBA Class of 2027
Age: 30
Hometown: Baltimore, MD
Undergraduate Institution and Major: University of Maryland, College Park; double major in English and Film Studies
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Copywriter, Creative Marketing, GEICO, 1.5 years
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I reached a point in my creative marketing career where I began to appreciate the importance of analytics in crafting campaigns and evolving brands. I realized I needed a more robust quantitative background in order to contribute data-driven creative concepts that connected with consumers while serving broader business purposes. By getting an MBA, I can gain the skills I need to achieve this goal.
Why did you choose Chicago Booth? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
My biggest objective in obtaining my MBA was to strengthen my quantitative understanding of business, and Booth is well-known for its academic rigor. I also got the chance to connect with alumni and current MBA students while I was considering my options, and their guidance strongly influenced my decision to attend Booth over other programs.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
My professional background is unusual — I’ve worked everywhere from a TV writers’ room to a nonprofit olive farm — so I have first-hand experience with the challenges and benefits of getting an MBA as a student with an unusual resume. I bring an open mind to the Class of 2027 and an appreciation for the unique aspects of each of my peers’ professional backgrounds and personal identities that make their perspectives so valuable.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I’ve driven the same used car since I got my learner’s permit 15 years ago and she’s taken me all over the country. When it comes to my ‘06 Honda, I’m ride-or-die (pun intended).
Post-MBA career interests:
Consulting & Marketing Strategy
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
At a certain point in your application process, you might start to doubt yourself and question if it’s even worth it to apply. My advice is, apply anyway. Don’t let imposter syndrome win, and believe in yourself.
– What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
It was really impactful to talk to current students and alumni — they’ll share things you just can’t find on a website. Also, start your essays early! They take longer than you think and are an important part of your application.
– What is one thing you would change or do differently?
In retrospect, I would apply to fewer schools. I applied to over ten programs and I really didn’t need to.
– What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I did not particularly like studying for the GRE, but it was helpful to watch YouTube videos of people going through practice problems. I think I watched every video “The Tested Tutor” has ever put out!
What is your initial impression of the Chicago Booth students/culture/community?
Everyone is unbelievably smart but also incredibly humble. It’s a culture of helping each other and paying it forward. My peers, professors, academic and career advisors, and Booth’s alumni have already helped me grow so much.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
I’m excited to have been elected to serve as co-representative of the Davis Cohort on the Graduate Business Council! Being part of student government gives me a way to advocate for my classmates and continue to improve the Booth MBA experience for them and for future students. I am also a member of Management Consulting Group, Marketing Group, and Women in Business; these student organizations both help during recruitment and connect me with classmates who share my interests, goals, and background.
What is one thing you have learned about Chicago Booth that has surprised you?
People love to go out and have a good time! I think Booth has a bit of a rep about its students being very bookish and studious, but the hard work is balanced with a lot of fun events.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m really looking forward to learning from Booth’s incredible faculty and staff, and from all the past and current Boothies. I’m so proud to be part of this community.
