Morgan Doak, Maryland Smith MBA Class of 2028
Age: 27
Hometown: Freeland, Maryland
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Towson University, Business Administration
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Marketing Manager, Commercial Printing, Allegra Baltimore, 3 years ; Brand Coordinator, Athletic Technology, EliteForm, 1 year
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
My goal was to strengthen my leadership skills and grow from someone who manages campaigns into someone who makes the strategic decisions behind them. After five years leading marketing initiatives, I knew I had the instincts but wanted the formal foundation to make that shift intentional rather than incidental.
Why did you choose UMD Smith? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
As a Maryland native, Smith has always held a prestigious title in my mind, it was one of my target schools from the start. Beyond that, I was drawn to the caliber of the faculty. Learning from professors who are genuinely respected in their fields was a major factor in my decision.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2028?
I bring a unique blend of creative thinking and strategic planning shaped by working across both startups and more corporate environments. Coming from smaller organizations meant taking on significant managerial responsibility early in my career, and I think that range gives me a unique lens.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I was a competitive rower for over 10 years, including 2 years as a Division I athlete.
Post-MBA career interests:
I’m targeting a transition into product marketing within the tech industry, with a long-term goal of growing into VP-level marketing leadership.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Take initiative and ask your recruiting coordinator to connect you with people in the admissions department. The more people you connect with, the stronger your application becomes.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would have started connecting with people on LinkedIn earlier in the process, especially alumni, to ask for their tips and advice. Building those relationships sooner would have given me more insight going into the application.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Honestly, I wouldn’t have skipped anything, my recruitment process felt perfect. A huge part of that was my recruiting coordinator, who was fantastic and helped me every step of the way.
What is your initial impression of the UMD Smith students/culture/community?
My first impression was that everyone truly cares for one another. Our cohort is full of people who bring so many different strengths to the table but are genuinely excited to learn from each other. The faculty were just as warm and welcoming, always willing to help in any way they could.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
I’m looking forward to joining DMAT, and during my time here, I hope to build out a productivity app powered by AI alongside other MBA students.
What is one thing you have learned about UMD Smith that has surprised you?
What’s surprised me most is the level of commitment so many of the professors have to their students’ success. They care about each person as an individual, which makes you genuinely excited to attend their lectures.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m most excited about gaining new perspectives that will make me a better strategic thinker when it comes to marketing. I’m already learning how to speak the language of other departments, which I know will make me a stronger cross-functional partner.
