Colleen Maher, Fuqua MBA Class of 2020
Age: 26
Hometown: Andover, MA
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Davidson College, economics
Pre-MBA Work Experience: 4 years, healthcare consulting and marketing
Why business school? Why now? I want to be a healthcare leader and recognize that I need to further develop core competencies that will allow me to lead diverse, cross-functional teams and make tangible impacts in the healthcare space.
Why Fuqua? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend? The core culture element of “Team Fuqua” strongly aligned with my vision for a supportive learning and growth environment. It is clear that the concept is not just the way that classes operate, but rather a philosophy that energizes the entire community. Further, I became increasingly confident that Fuqua’s Health Sector Management program would provide me with an unparalleled experience to accelerate my healthcare career and develop a deeper understanding of the healthcare industry’s complex interdependencies.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2020? I love being an idea integrator—I believe my strength lies in my ability to synthesize diverse ideas into focused action.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application? I am currently in a competition with my family to see who can reach all 50 states first. I am trailing the rest of the family (37 and counting), but it’s not over until it’s over.
Post-MBA career interests? I am obsessed with the intersection of technology and healthcare. I aim to develop programs to improve patient outcomes while effectively managing costs through digital solutions.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process? Talk to as many students and alumni as you can! I found it incredibly valuable to gain first-hand exposure to the varying cultures at different schools and to be able to ask current students directly why they love their school and what differentiated their experience.
Also, I would recommend trying to work with a cohort of coworkers/friends who are applying to schools at the same time as you. Having a network that can read each other’s essays, workshop ideas, and support each other through challenges was incredibly helpful.
–One thing you would change or do differently? I wish I were able to visit more schools while they were in session. I know scheduling is tricky but by the time you are writing Round 1 applications, most students are away at internships for the summer.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it? The GMAT was obviously a challenge but having a supportive network going through it at the same time made it better!
What is your initial impression of Fuqua’s students/culture/community? “Team Fuqua” is real. The school culture emphasizes that the potential achievements when working as a collective force far outweigh what any singular person can do. I love that Fuqua’s core principles focus on cultivating a community that supports each other toward a united vision of success.
One thing you have learned about Fuqua that has surprised you? Even from my first few days at Fuqua, my classmates’ unique experiences and deep understanding of diverse topic areas has blown me away. However, the part that has stood out the most was the desire of these classmates to teach others and help the larger team gain a better understanding of new concepts.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year? Being able to take advantage of all the opportunities at Fuqua and finding the right balance between academic learning, leadership opportunities, and building a strong social network.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year? Learning from my classmates and discovering new opportunities that ignite my passions.
