Lauren Teal, UGA Terry MBA Class of 2026
Age: 25
Hometown: Concord, CA
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Whitworth University, BA Psychology
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Behavioral Technician (Special Education) (1 yr) & Valuation and M&A Paraprofessional (2 yrs)
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
My mentor and boss at the time was a big motivator of me seeking graduate experience in valuation, accounting, or a similar field. While I’m not sure he expected me to move across the country, my team’s support was invaluable. The trigger for my applications was spending time in an Army Intelligence training course. In this course we briefly spoke on Humanitarian Aid and logistical issues that often tie up much needed resources from getting to the people who need them most. More than anything I had heard lately, this resonated with me as an issue I had a particular passion to do whatever I could to help. So, I decided to capitalize on my financial experience and military service, and take it to Grad school to see what I could do to help, hopefully finding a role where I can apply my skills and passion most effectively.
Why did you choose UGA Terry? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I had the privilege of interviewing with multiple schools, and it came down to Terry and a school I thought was my dream school. My disposition was to go with the school I had always wanted to go to, but the interview process and the alum and students I spoke to at Terry all were so proud of their experience and so willing to share. At the end of the day, Terry presented a full package of assistantship, opportunities, and amazing people that felt like home. That sentiment has only been reinforced since being on campus and connection with my peers.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the University of Georgia Terry MBA Class of 2026?
I have seen a lot in my 25 years. I don’t think that makes me much different than so many of my peers, but what it has instilled in me is my drive to connect with people. My, maybe unintentional, contribution to my class will hopefully be the connections I make with such a diverse group, bringing people together and enabling us to find support and acceptance in unexpected places.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
Not to toot my own horn, but I’m a stellar baker. My childhood recipe for coffee cake still gets passed around my middle school.
Post-MBA career interests:
MBA related: Finance, Volunteerism and Philanthropy with my company, Potentially starting my own non-profit to assist in humanitarian aid, International relations and business
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I was absolutely myself. I think that is the benefit of being a bit older this time around. Knowing who you are and letting admissions see that, and then taking a step back and analyzing how you fit and truly feel about each opportunity is a unique experience that can really help you make a decision you can be proud of.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would apply earlier! I applied in the last round and think I could have had more involvement with the process. I really enjoyed visits, prospective student days, etc. much more if I had been involved earlier. The unique thing about business school, too, is the massive amount of career prep that goes into the program. Some of my peers began this process as early as February and I had a lot of catching up to do by June.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
The imposter syndrome – and this isn’t unique to me. I had to do a lot of soul-searching and speaking with my mentors to garner the reassurance that I had earned this. If I could have had a heart-to-heart with myself a few months ago, I would tell myself that I have done some amazing things and earned my space to excel just as much as anyone else.
What is your initial impression of the UGA Terry students/culture/community?
My initial impression was just how supportive my peers are. There is a common sense of support which is something I have heard variations on from friends in MBA programs elsewhere. The second someone gets information regarding a funky interview question, open position, or helpful material, it’s sent to anyone else in our class who could benefit. In a situation where we could choose to be hyper-competitive or gatekeep helpful information for ourselves, thinking it may get us a job over our peers, there’s none of that. We are all here for each other’s success. It’s refreshing.
What is one thing you have learned about UGA Terry that has surprised you?
The sincere involvement of the CMC was really surprising to me. Our CMC team takes our success personal and will do anything to prepare us however they can. Cierra is constantly working on building our connections and helping us navigate communication with potential employers. Paul is absolutely relentless in preparing us for conferences and keeping us on track with applications. I quite literally couldn’t ask for better people in our corner.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Stats.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m beyond excited to see where my classmates and I end up this summer for our internships. Everyone is working so hard and I’m excited to see the product of our efforts and stress.
