Mae Howlin, Maryland Smith MBA Class of 2028
Age: 26
Hometown: Owings, MD
Undergraduate Institution and Major: University of Maryland – Robert H. Smith School of Business, Double Major – International Business & Supply Chain Management
Pre-MBA Work Experience: I’ve spent the past 3 years in Project Management/Planning in the Construction and Technology industry.
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I am pursuing my MBA because I want to increase by business acumen and hope to pursue a management track post- graduation. I chose to start this fall because the timing was ideal.
Why did you choose UMD Smith? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose UMD Smith due to the school’s collaborative culture, central location, emphasis on experiential learning, and wide variety of specializations offered.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2028?
Having completed my undergraduate degree at UMD Smith, I’ve been able to leverage my familiarity with the school’s culture and campus to help ease the transition for new students.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I love to travel and try new things.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I would absolutely attend more in-person information sessions about the programs that I’m interested in. Going to these sessions allows you to ask questions, talk with current/prospective students, and meet the admissions team.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
Don’t stress too much about the application/interview process! Be authentic, clearly convey your professional goals, and know that your interviewer is also rooting for your success.
What is your initial impression of the UMD Smith students/culture/community?
The Smith community has been extremely welcoming on all fronts. I look forward to learning more about what it means to be a Terp.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
I’m interested in joining the Data, Marketing, and Technology Club because it offers its members chances to improve their data analytics skills, complete case competitions, and visit nearby firms.
What is one thing you have learned about UMD Smith that has surprised you?
Something that surprised me is how close my cohort became in just a few days. I attribute our strong team cohesion to the strategic onboarding process, which successfully established a collaborative and supportive environment from day one.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m most excited to spend time with my cohort and the second years. The individuals I’ve met so far have been amazing and I look forward to meeting many more.
