Susanna Gauldin, Georgia Terry MBA Class of 2028
Age: 26
Hometown: Kansas City, Missouri
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Brigham Young University – Idaho
Pre-MBA Work Experience: District Sales Leader, Retail CPG, Pepsico – Frito Lay, 3 years
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I have always wanted to pursue brand management, and an MBA would help me fast track into the role. I was at a point in my career where more education was going to be beneficial to my growth both personally and professionally.
Why did you choose UGA Terry? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I ultimately chose Terry because I had been living in Athens for the last 3 years. The school was close in proximity, ranked top 25 and the funding that I was able to receive helped me make my final decision.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2028?
I differentiate myself by being the bridge between strategic chaos and execution. I have a proven track record of thinking fast on my feet and keeping diverse teams moving toward a common goal. I don’t just participate in brainstorming; I focus on driving tangible results by managing project milestones, unblocking teammates, and ensuring that our final output is delivered on time and at an executive standard.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
A fun fact about myself is that I love to roller skate! I used to be a skate instructor during my undergrad degree.
Post-MBA career interests:
After my MBA the dream is to work for Mattel’s Barbie as a brand manager! But I would also be happy to land anywhere in the marketing world.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I would definitely apply for the UGA MBA program again.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I had a great application experience. I would not change the process.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
For me personally, I would not have skipped any step. I had a smooth application process which helped in the decision-making process.
What is your initial impression of the UGA Terry students/culture/community?
My initial impression of UGA Terry is that the school is investing in many of these students and the program by designing the course work to be relative and helpful for our development and our future careers.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
I have joined the Women in Business student organization. I am hoping to make lasting connections and to expand my network.
What is one thing you have learned about UGA Terry that has surprised you?
I have been pleasantly surprised to learn how connected Terry is with the amount of alumni and the employer connections they have.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am excited for the learning and the growth that will be taking place within this first year.
