Julie Miller, UGA Terry MBA Class of 2024
Age: 30
Hometown: Oldwick, NJ
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Eastern Michigan University, History
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 4+ Financial Services, 2 Marketing
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I wanted to go to business school when I completed my undergraduate degree – it was a real wake-up call realizing I needed significantly more work experience. I took my roll with SS&C and moved up the ladder, but between Covid and turning 30, I realized it was time to revisit my goal of obtaining my MBA.
Why did you choose UGA Terry? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose to only apply to Southern schools. I grew up in Houston before relocating to New Jersey. I actually considered UGA for my undergrad. However, what I liked most about the UGA and what ultimately helped make the decision were the people I met; UGA connected me with a number of 2nd year students while I was making my decision and I got a real sense of community from everyone I spoke with. It is also an incredibly well-funded program, so the scholarship and financial aid added to the appeal.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2024?
My attitude – there’s always a way to a solution and at the end of the day, how you approach a problem or situation makes all the difference.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I ride horses competitively.
Post-MBA career interests:
Corporate finance or IB
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Deep research on the different programs – there are a number of different rankings, categories, etc. and using all the available information to determine what school’s to apply to makes a huge difference in narrowing down the search.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
The first time I applied to business school (immediately post undergrad) I sent out almost 12 applications – it is costly and time consuming and not worth it.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
The essays – since there is not a universal application, you feel like you end up writing the same thing repeatedly, while also trying to make it unique for each school. I had all my friends with post-graduate degrees help me – they would review and provide commentary, which at least made the process more fun for me.
What is your initial impression of the UGA Terry students/culture/community?
The class of ’24 is comprised of genuinely interesting, smart, and kind people, and the staff are incredibly supportive and intelligent.
What is one thing you have learned about UGA Terry that has surprised you?
How much support the program offers in the job search.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Accounting.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Everything I am going to learn.
