Real Humans of the Cambridge Judge MBA Class of 2024

Alexandra Boustany, Cambridge Judge MBA Class of 2024

Age: 27
Hometown: Chicago, Illinois, USA
Undergraduate Institution and Major: The Ohio State University- Marketing Major, Non-Profit Studies Minor
Pre-MBA Work Experience (role, company, years): The National Multiple Sclerosis Society- Walk MS Specialist- 2018 – 2021; Individual Giving Manager- Jan 2021 – Sep 2021; American Heart Association- Development Director- 2021 – 2023

Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I have always wanted to go to grad school, but I wasn’t sure which type of program to attend. I have loved being in the non-profit sector, but wanted a business degree to complement what I have learned thus far. The focus on leadership skills, innovation, and the overall merging of the for-profit and non-profit sectors that I am hoping to gain additional insight into.

In addition, the timing worked out really well, personally and professionally. I have been in the working world for five years and wanted to take a pause and decide which direction my career is heading in. It also happened to coincide with my lease being up, which was a huge relief coming from New York City.

Why did you choose Cambridge Judge? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
First and foremost, the fact that this program is only a year was a big sell for me. After studying for the GMAT and GRE, I realized that doing a part-time program while working full-time would be a challenge. I commend people who do so, but realized that I would be better suited to a full-time program. 

Two of the other areas that swayed my decision were the careers team and networking capabilities. I really appreciated the emphasis on having a careers team to walk you through your hopes for after the program. While it is hard to think about right when you start the program, it helps tremendously to provide ideas or directions to choose from. 

The networking opportunities were a final reason I chose Cambridge. There are a myriad of opportunities, from networking with your classmates, to chatting with alumni, to meeting the speakers that come to Judge. There is no shortage of information to really open your eyes to career paths you may not have known existed, which is something that I am eager to experience.

What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2024?
I will say, I have been nervous about not coming from a Finance or for-profit background, but I believe that this will be one of my most valuable assets. My most recent position involved working with major for-profit companies to secure sponsorship and fundraising dollars. Getting to intimately know the process that goes into the budgeting these companies was immensely insightful. Coming at our discussions and classwork with a different perspective will be an asset I am excited to contribute.

Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I am a huge music fan! I love going to concerts- I’ve been to over 90 and hope to break 100 while I am in the UK for the next year (I already have tickets to 1 show!)

Post-MBA career interests:
Non-Profit Sector, Corporate Social Responsibility, Non-Profit Consulting

Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I had the chance to attend an in-person information session in New York, where I spoke with a handful of Cambridge staff along with other prospective students. It was incredibly insightful to ask questions in person while getting to know the staff and the program a bit better. In addition, my apprehensions and nerves about applying for school became much lighter, as I could put more tangible information behind my thought process.

–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I originally studied for and took the GMAT, then switched to the GRE. Prior to making this decision, I had taken an aptitude test to see which test would suit my strengths better. I agreed with its insights on taking the GRE. The test takes up a significant portion of your application process timing, so take the test that plays to your strengths.

-What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
The GMAT and GRE was definitely my least favorite part of the process. Having to learn how to study again, while working full-time was difficult, to say the least. My biggest takeaway was being able to take the test twice. Try to plan your application timing with taking at least two tests. You learn so much after taking the first one, and that information made a big difference in how I studied for the second test. 

What is your initial impression of the Cambridge Judge students/culture/community?
Everyone that I have spoken to has been lovely and will try their best to answer your questions and make you feel comfortable. The people I have met in person and virtually have given what I expect to be an accurate picture of the community that I will experience at Cambridge. Everyone is supportive, uplifting, and wants you to succeed.

What is one thing you have learned about Cambridge Judge that has surprised you?
I don’t think I fully understood the scope of how old this institution is until I got into my college. Peterhouse is the oldest college and was established in 1284. That fact absolutely blew my mind, and I am excited to be surrounded by such rich history that includes so many established figures.

What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I am nervous to be in an unfamiliar environment for the first time in a long time. While I am looking forward to being back in a country that I have wanted to spend more time in, it is also anxiety-inducing to be somewhere on your own. However, I am a big proponent of personal growth, and know that this experience will be a tremendous learning opportunity.

What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am so excited to meet people from around the world. I have heard really positive experiences from past students about the relationships and friendships they made, and I cannot wait to experience that for myself.