Allegra Porter, Goizueta MBA Class of 2022
Age: 30
Hometown: Atlanta, GA
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Wellesley College: Boston, MA—Psychology & French dual major
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): Marketing, 1 year; Hospitality & Hotel Management, 2 years; Travel and Tourism, 2 years; Medical Administration, 3 years
Why business school? Why now?
I decided to pursue my MBA because I knew that I needed more formalized training in order to make the next step in my career and to be able to contribute to effective change in the healthcare industry. I have also always loved school and am on a constant journey to challenge and improve myself.
Why Emory? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
When choosing a school, I of course valued academic rigor, but it was also very important to me that I felt like more than just a number and would have the opportunity to truly connect with my peers. I learn best with interactive teaching in smaller groups, so I preferred schools that offered an environment that was conducive to that style. I also really wanted to go to a school that had a centralized campus with a collegiate feel.
I chose Emory Goizueta for many reasons: not only because of its academic excellence, proximity to the Rollins School of Public Health, and the CDC, but also because it offers the unique opportunity to be a part of a close-knit community within a larger university. The intimate class size and low student-to-teacher ratio are perfect for me. The campus is also beautiful!
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2022?
I love solving problems and I relish the opportunity to create clarity from chaos. I am also a facilitator who enjoys supporting my peers just as much as I enjoy leading them. I am comfortable navigating difficult social situations, and I have a strong ability to moderate and bring people together. I believe that everyone has something valuable to contribute, and I find joy in encouraging others so that they feel empowered.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
In my spare time, I train my 4-year-old border collie, Finn, to run canine agility courses: jumps, weave-poles, planks, and tunnels. We hope to compete someday!
Post-MBA career interests?
My goal is to continue working in process improvement and business development within the healthcare industry. I hope to apply my experience, education, and interpersonal skills to a company that shares my passion for improving the efficiency and accessibility of medical care.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Before my interviews, I practiced mock interviews with a former MBA student. This was incredibly helpful because the practice allowed me to focus and refine my ideas.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
I would recommend starting the admissions essays earlier. The self-reflection required can be more challenging than one anticipates. Having the opportunity to reflect and re-visit the essays multiple times is very valuable.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I would have skipped the standardized-test portion of the application process. Unfortunately, that’s unavoidable, so I just had to push through it. Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool. I maintained my motivation by periodically rewarding myself for accomplishments and milestones.
What is your initial impression of Emory Goizueta’s students/culture/community?
When I visited campus for the first time, I immediately felt at home. Everyone was welcoming and helpful. I could tell that students, faculty, and staff alike were genuinely happy to be there—that says a lot.
One of the first events I went to at Emory Goizueta was an evening hosted by Goizueta’s Women in Business club. Witnessing the warmth and power of that support network really impressed and inspired me.
One thing you have learned about Emory Goizueta that has surprised you?
I have been surprised on more than one occasion by the accomplishments of the professors at Emory Goizueta. They are truly experts in their field, and the insight they provide from their real-world experience is incredibly valuable. They may be distinguished in different ways, but they share a similar passion for teaching. I feel very fortunate to be learning from them.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
It can be very challenging to juggle absorbing the academic material while navigating recruiting efforts.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
First and foremost, I’m thrilled to be back in school and learning! I missed the intellectual challenge that comes from academic work. I’m also incredibly excited to get to know my cohort and the rest of the Goizueta community.
