Jim Freeman, Goizueta MBA Class of 2020
Age: 27
Hometown: Sylvania, GA
Undergraduate Institution and Major: University of Georgia, BBA Management
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 5 years; International and Domestic Supply Chain and Consumer Products
Why business school? Why now?
I wanted to pivot out of Supply Chain and transition into Real Estate and/or Management Consulting. Now was the best time for me, because I felt that I had gained valuable working experience, yet I was still young enough to get a great return on the time and financial investment of school.
Why Goizueta? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I knew that I wanted to remain in the Southeast after graduation, so I focused my efforts on the best schools in the Southeast; however, Goizueta’s reputation and community immediately set them apart. From the Program Office to the professors, you could tell that everyone genuinely cared for and looked after one another. After “Welcome Weekend” I was all in on my decision.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2020?
I hope that my ability to connect people with diverse backgrounds and bring them together will be my most differentiating contribution. I believe that this was one of the main reasons that I was elected as a Class Representative by my peers.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I share my name with my late grandfather and father (not very uncommon in the south); however, they both hold degrees from Emory, and I could not be more honored to be the third straight generation at such a prestigious institution.
Post-MBA career interests?
I am currently recruiting for Commercial Real Estate and Management Consulting. I would love to find a position that allowed me to combine these two interests
Advice to current prospective applicants:
—One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Spend time getting to know the applicant pools and your future classmates. These are the people with whom (and from whom) you will be learning and spending a large amount of time. Do not discount how much of an impact your classmates can have on your experience.
—One thing you would change or do differently?
If I could go back, I would have taken more time to visit programs outside the Southeast. I did most of my research and networking virtually, and I wish I had taken the time to go out and visit more programs and grown my overall network in doing so.
—Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
GMAT. My family and friends helped me keep everything in perspective throughout the process, and put up with my griping and venting when I needed.
What is your initial impression of Goizueta’s students/culture/community?
I have been overwhelmed with the quality of students that I am surrounded by on a daily basis. My classmates are obviously exceptional in the classroom; however, they are much more impressive human beings.
The sense of community within our class is unparalleled. No matter how large or small an issue, you have an army of people ready to help you find a solution, and I feel that this is truly unique to Goizueta.
One thing you have learned about Goizueta that has surprised you?
I have been truly surprised by alumni involvement and their willingness to make time to assist prospective and current students. I spoke with a half dozen Goizueta alumni before I even applied and every one of them was more than willing to share their experience, and offer assistance in my application process.
This has continued as classes and recruitment have progressed and is an invaluable asset for all students. This is a shining example of Emory’s core values, and it is reassuring to know that these values last beyond your years on campus.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Recruitment/getting an internship offer.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Continuing to get to know my classmates and the greater Goizueta community and growing my network.
