Matt Gill, Goizueta MBA Class of 2019
Age: 29
Hometown: Wellesley, MA
Undergraduate Institution and Major: University of Southern California; major in music industry with minors in marketing and music performance (oboe)
Pre-MBA Work Experience: I had six years of full-time work experience in the entertainment and tech industries before going back to school. I started my career with the ZakHill Group, a boutique agency specializing in entertainment branded partnerships. During my time at ZakHill I had the opportunity to work with multiple clients including Walt Disney Studios and the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences. From there I transitioned to DreamWorks Animation, where I was the manager of creative strategy and business development. In my most recent position I had the opportunity to enhance my digital marketing skillset as account manager at Houzz, a home remodeling and design app.
Why business school? Why now? I decided to apply to business school for two key reasons. My first goal was to broaden my exposure to global business practices. To date, much of my career has focused on marketing efforts in the United States. After business school, I would like to work for a company with a global presence. Business school is a unique opportunity to not only travel internationally to meet business leaders and experience new cultures, but also to work with international students from all over the world on a daily basis. My second goal is to transition into either a product management or brand management role. Business school will provide me with the skillset required to be successful in these positions. Not only will I become a stronger marketer, but also more fluent in other areas including finance, accounting, and operations.
Why Goizueta? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend? There was no question in my mind that Goizueta was the right program for me. When looking at various programs I considered the culture, location of the institution, and the alumni network. Goizueta offers a very supportive environment where students are eager to help their classmates succeed. Whether it’s preparing for interviews or studying together for a mid-term, Goizueta students enjoy seeing their friends obtain their goals.
I was also excited about Goizueta’s location. Atlanta is a hub for a variety of companies and industries including CPG, automotive, technology, and media. Goizueta has developed strong partnerships with the countless businesses based in Atlanta. These connections will be valuable to my career both in the short term and long term.
Finally, the alumni network is unmatched. Alumni are excited to assist current students with recruiting, whether it’s setting up mock interviews or getting together for coffee chats. They also actively participate in the mentorship program, a one-on-one partnership that aligns current students with alumni who have pursued career paths that match the aspirations of the students.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2019? I think one of the most valuable contributions every student makes is his/her point of view. When I came to business school I wanted to make sure I shared my professional experiences as a member of the LGBTQ community. I think it is important to discuss ways that everyone can create inclusive work environments, not only for the LGBTQ community, but other minorities as well. I have admired my classmates and the faculty of Goizueta for their support of minorities and ensuring everyone feels they can be their true selves.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application? I have always enjoyed traveling, whether it’s been domestically or internationally. Some of my most memorable trips include hiking in Denali State Park in Alaska and meeting Richard Simmons during a trip to New Orleans.
Post-MBA career interests? Post-MBA I am interested in moving into either a product management or brand management position.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process? If you have the opportunity to do so, I would strongly recommend trying to do on-campus interviews as opposed to off-site/online interviews. This was a great way to not only meet with my interviewer face-to-face, but also set up time for a lunch with a current student, as well as explore the city of Atlanta.
–One thing you would change or do differently? I would have taken the GMAT earlier in the process so I could focus on other portions of the application. This was one of the more stressful and time-consuming parts of the application process.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it? Once I completed my applications and interviews, all I wanted to know was whether I was accepted into the program. The waiting game can certainly be stressful! I relied on my family, friends, and colleagues who were also going through the application process to help keep me grounded.
Greatest highlight so far at Goizueta? One of my favorite experiences so far has been participating in the IMPACT360 program. Goizueta students have the opportunity to work with clients on real projects that have a significant impact on their businesses. For my project, I have the pleasure of learning about an entirely new industry while also applying the skills I learned from the core semester.
One thing about Goizueta that you didn’t expect before arriving? Based on my conversations with students prior to coming to Goizueta I knew I was entering a very supportive community. I have been impressed with just how supportive the community has been. Before I even arrived on campus I had the opportunity to work on my resume with the career center and a second-year student. Once I arrived I was impressed by the amount of support that was available. Second-year students were eager to provide their insights about how to manage classes, the recruiting process, and ways to get involved with student-run organizations.
Thing you’ve been most anxious about in your first year? I was anxious about being in a classroom setting again. It had been about 6½ years since my last college class, and I knew I might struggle with getting back into the studying mindset. With the help of my core study group, classmates, and professors I was able to transition back into being a full-time student.
Thing you’ve been most excited about in your first year? Besides meeting my classmates, I am looking forward to participating in a mid-semester module this spring. I will be going to Brazil for the first time with several of my classmates and professors. It will be a unique opportunity to explore a new country and meet with local businesses.
