Dylan Jones, Georgetown McDonough MBA Class of 2021
Age: 27
Hometown: Washington, DC
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Dartmouth College – BA in Economics
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry):
I spent my first year or so after Dartmouth at TrackMan Baseball, the baseball data company behind MLB’s Statcast product. It was a ton of fun, but I quickly realized that I did not want to spend my career in the sports industry.
I have worked in real estate in DC for the past four years, initially at a boutique consulting firm that did economic research and strategy work for developers and local governments. Most recently, I worked at WashREIT doing asset management and acquisitions for their value-add multifamily portfolio.
Why business school? Why now?
I hope to grow as a leader, learn from my amazing classmates, and make sure I have the well-rounded skill set to be an effective manager and not just a technical expert. After 5 years in the business world, I felt I had the perspective to maximize my growth and the experience to contribute to my peers’ learning.
Why Georgetown McDonough? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
The Steers Center for Global Real Estate was a huge draw for me. As a student focused on real estate, it was essential to attend a school with a strong, dedicated real estate program. In my opinion, there are very few that can compare to the Steers Center.
We have an amazing, highly involved alumni base that is deeply tied to the industry here in DC and around the country. Matt Cypher, Director of the Steers Center, has an impressive vision for the program and has assembled a top-notch team to accomplish it. We have a strong group of real estate students in our class and I am excited to work with them for the next two years.
I love the quality of life in the DC area – amazing cultural amenities, great food scene, nice weather, smart people. On top of that, you have all the opportunities that come from the intersection of business and government in the capital of the free world. Having the opportunity to attend a world-class university like Georgetown made staying in DC extremely appealing.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2021?
My professional experience. From optimizing pitch usage patterns to advising the mayor’s office on economic development, I have been able to hone my quantitative and analytical skills by solving interesting and unique problems.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I can pour high-quality latte art.
Post-MBA career interests?
I hope to work at a real estate private equity firm in an acquisitions role.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Start the research process early. I began attending MBA events and visiting campuses two years before my application cycle. With so many great schools out there, it was a huge help to see different strengths, styles, and cultures and have ample time to consider where would be the best fit.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
Start writing my application essays sooner! I had a slow writing process with lots of editing and many iterations. Extra time up front would have saved me stress near the deadlines.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
The wait for decision day! Date nights with my wife, lots of hiking, and golf. Whatever works to keep you relaxed!
What is your initial impression of Georgetown McDonough’s students/culture/community?
I can’t say enough good things. Smart, hard-working people with a fascinating variety of life experiences. There is genuine camaraderie and tons of collaboration within our class already.
One thing you have learned about Georgetown McDonough that has surprised you?
Not much. I came in with extremely high expectations and have not been disappointed!
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Nothing. I’m all in!
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Bonding with my fellow students!
