Ana Lis Guimarães, Georgetown McDonough MBA Class of 2026
Age: 25
Hometown: Porto Seguro – BA, Brazil
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Universidade de Brasilia – UnB, BS in Civil Engineering
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Configr – Sales Development Manager – 3 years
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
My decision to attend business school stemmed from two strong desires: to develop an international career and to contribute to a business at a strategic level. While I could achieve these goals over time without an MBA, I saw it as an opportunity to accelerate my accomplishments. Personal aspirations also pointed me towards a new adventure, and with everything aligned, it just felt like the right time.
Why did you choose Georgetown McDonough? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Georgetown holds one of the largest international representations in the MBA class year after year, therefore the admissions, faculty, program office, and career center are well-prepared to deal with the specificities of being an international MBA candidate in the US. The location also played an important role in my decision, Washington DC seems to me like a great balance between the resources of a big city and the coziness of a small town.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2026?
My upbringing had many particularities that made me adaptable, resourceful, and empathetic. Additionally, I had the opportunity to develop my leadership skills very early on in my life, whether as the older sister, in undergrad clubs and associations leadership positions, or as a sales development manager. This combination has made me an inclusive leader and very good at ‘reading the room.’ I’m eager to leverage that in the Class of 2026 for my peers who, on the other side of the coin, may have a lot of technical experience but want to develop their leadership skills.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
The origin of my name is an adaptation of my grandmothers’ names, Sebastiana (Ana) and Elizabeth (Lis), which I carry proudly. They were elementary and middle school educators, and I believe the close relationship I had with them, and therefore with education, made me understand the value of it as a resource for personal transformation. And if you are wondering why Lis and not Liz, that’s another story—feel free to ask me!
Post-MBA career interests:
Strategy Consulting, Tech and Innovation Strategy
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Interviewing in person was a great opportunity to get to know the campus, feel the community, and get a taste of what the classes are like. I remember the day I walked into the Hariri Building and needed to ask for directions. There was a Brazilian group sitting in the hallways, and it was lovely to find a community right away—it felt very warm and welcoming! The class I participated in was very engaging and gave me a good sense of how the MBA classes would be. This experience can determine a lot about how you fit into that community, and at that point, I knew Georgetown was the right place for me. During that visiting class, I felt like I was already an MBA candidate. And of course, it’s impossible to not fall in love with the views of the Hariri Building and Hilltop campus!
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I’d have invested more time in my essays, it is natural for us as prospective MBA students to weigh more test scores, especially those coming from different cultures. For instance, in Brazil, we are used to admissions processes that are solely based on test scores. However, the essays are an opportunity, a sneak peek into who you are and how you want to showcase yourself, don’t overlook it.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I don’t want to romanticize the MBA application process, which is tough and involves a lot of self-doubt, BUT I’d honestly keep everything. The failures and accomplishments of this journey build one’s learning curve. For instance, test scores are hard, but the process of studying for them is a great way to prepare for business school. The GMAT isn’t only about knowing the content but also about strategic time management and self-awareness. And if the GMAT isn’t working for you, there are other options—maybe another test can suit you better (GRE, EA…) or even a test waiver. Just keep doing the best you can with the resources you have, and maybe get a friend, significant other, or family member to encourage you when self-doubt knocks on the door!
What is your initial impression of the Georgetown McDonough students/culture/community?
The Georgetown McDonough community has positively surprised me. My peers have impressive backgrounds yet are very accessible. It’s roughly two months into the MBA experience, and friendships are already forming! I also feel a strong sense of camaraderie, especially within our cohort (#GoBlue!), as we empathize with each other.
What is one thing you have learned about Georgetown McDonough that has surprised you?
Cura Personalis! Pursuing an MBA is a great achievement and requires a lot of effort and stamina. Nonetheless, it doesn’t have to come at other personal costs. Cura Personalis is a Georgetown principle that means ‘care of the whole person,’ and it is very present throughout our experience here. The MBA Program Office, for example, stands as a support point not only for academics but also for personal concerns.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I’d say the job search and balancing it with classes can get nerve-wracking, especially if you’re using loans to finance your studies.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m thrilled to meet new people from completely different backgrounds that I wouldn’t encounter otherwise and to make life-long friendships!
