Shelby Birch, UVA Darden MBA Class of 2028
Age: 32
Hometown: Orlando, FL
Undergraduate Institution and Major: University of Central Florida, B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies with concentrations in Communications and Humanities; Georgia State University, Master of Public Policy
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Consultant, Management Leadership for Tomorrow (MLT), nonprofit sector — approximately four years; Legislative Assistant and Policy Fellow, government / policy, Congressional Black Caucus Foundation — one year; Graduate Assistant, Higher Education, Georgia State University — two years; Primary School English Teacher, Nonprofit/ International Development, Peace Corps — two years; AmeriCorps Member, Education Nonprofit, City Year DC — one year
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I loved working with leaders and communities to solve complex problems, but I often felt that I didn’t speak the same language as the leaders I supported. I could see myself pursuing leadership and scaling my impact, but I wasn’t sure how to get there.
I wanted to accelerate my career, position myself for leadership, and expand my toolkit so I could communicate effectively with both organizational leaders and the communities they serve. Many of the leaders I admired had MBAs, and they often described the experience as transformative for both their personal and professional development.
This felt like the right time to reevaluate the direction I wanted to take my career, the impact I wanted to make, and the life I wanted to lead. For me, all paths pointed to an MBA.
Why did you choose UVA Darden? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Three factors played the biggest role in my decision:
- The case method: The case method offered a unique way to learn. Having already completed a master’s program, I wanted a new academic experience. At Darden, students are expected to form a point of view, defend their positions, and use their voices—skills that extend far beyond the classroom. Darden’s strong reputation for teaching faculty and classroom experience also reinforced my decision.
- The culture: Darden was the best culture fit for me. I had an incredibly personal recruiting and application experience, and I felt valued and seen by students, alumni, and the admissions team. Everyone I interacted with was helpful and welcoming. I was also drawn to Darden’s family-friendly environment and its strong sense of community.
- Career development: Darden’s Career Development Center has been instrumental in preparing me for my post-MBA career. I wanted a program that invested in my success both inside and outside the classroom, and Darden has consistently provided that support.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2028?
I bring a nontraditional, interdisciplinary background and approximately 10 years of experience spanning education, public policy, government and nonprofit consulting.
Although I am taking business courses for the first time, I hope my professional background will help foster nuanced conversations about complex business challenges. I bring curiosity, a range of perspectives, and a strong interest in understanding how organizations can create meaningful impact for both their employees and the communities they serve.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I start my mornings playing New York Times games—Connections, Wordle, and Strands–for a quick mental boost to start my day. My 2027 goal is a 365-day streak!
Post-MBA Career Interests:
I am interested in exploring consulting and general management roles focused on strategy and people experience.
Advice for Current and Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I would have given myself more runway to prepare, reflect on what I wanted, and clarify where I hoped to be. That additional time would have made the process feel more intentional.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
Honestly, I would not change anything. I am proud of the application I submitted and the journey I experienced. I ultimately ended up at the place where I was meant to be.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Test preparation. Transparently, it was not my favorite part of the process, and I struggled at times. I leaned on my pre-MBA communities, including Admit.me Access and Forté, to get through it.
These communities provided useful resources, but they also connected me with people who understood exactly what I was experiencing. That support helped me build the confidence to keep studying and pushing forward, even when I felt that I wasn’t improving.
What is your initial impression of the Darden students, culture, and community?
They were completely my speed: friendly, approachable, and community-focused. I was impressed by how Darden students carry themselves, and I was amazed by how much care they put into the student experience.
What student organizations have you joined or are hoping to join, and why?
I was elected as a Section Representative—a role similar to serving as president for my section.
I am also a member of the Black Business Student Association, Graduate Women in Business, Pride at Darden, the Consulting Club, the Technology Club, Improv Club, and Net Impact. These organizations reflect my interests in leadership, community building, professional development, and inclusion.
What is one thing you have learned about Darden that has surprised you?
Darden truly walks its talk. The school is genuinely focused on its community and students, and the learning experience is unlike anything I have encountered before. The professors care about their students and know us as individuals. I did not expect to feel so seen and supported.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
As cliché as it sounds, I am most excited to continue building relationships across the Darden community. My classmates and alumni are exceptional, supportive, and driven people who have—and will continue to—change the world.I am excited and grateful to get to know them and to become part of Darden’s legacy.
