Brianna Jefferson, Georgetown MS-ESM Class of 2024
Age: 22
Hometown: Toronto, Canada
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Yale University, Environmental Studies
Graduate Business School, Graduation Year and Concentration: Georgetown Masters of Environment and Sustainability Management, Class of 2024
Pre-MS-ESM Work Experience: In in my undergraduate I did internships with an investment banking, and as a research analyst on a farm
Post-MS-ESM Work Experience: I’m currently a sustainability Analyst at Sustainability Roundtable, 2 months, Environmental Advisory and Research company
Why did you choose to pursue an M.S. Environment and Sustainability Management?
During my undergraduate years, I majored in Environmental Studies with a focus on Human Health and the Environment. I made the switch to this major midway through my studies, realizing my interest in the field and wishing I had more time to explore the topic. I am particularly drawn to the intersection of business and the environment, and I knew that I wanted to continue to expand the knowledge that I had but with a stronger emphasis on how businesses think about their corporate sustainability responsibility.
Why did you choose Georgetown McDonough? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I appreciated that the upcoming class schedule for the year offered a diverse selection of courses categorized as business-focused, science-focused, or a blend of both, providing a well-rounded mix of options. Another key factor that motivated me was the capstone project. This months-long project gave me the opportunity to prove—to myself and potential employers—that I could contribute meaningful insights to address a company’s sustainability needs. I was also excited about creating a comprehensive piece of work that would encompass everything I had learned throughout the year.
What about your Georgetown MS-ESM experience prepared you for your current career?
The interdisciplinary courses taught by Professor Agarwal have been really helpful in preparing me for my day-to-day role. These courses provided valuable insights into the trade-offs that sustainability teams must navigate, and as someone now involved in supporting these departments with target-setting and decarbonization roadmaps, I’ve found this background and understanding to be beneficial. Additionally, the cohort model with pre-selected classes encouraged me to explore areas outside my comfort zone, such as data analysis and R, which I might not have pursued on my own. This has helped me integrate into a company where I work on dynamic projects, with my scope of work evolving based on both my interests and the organization’s needs.
Why did you choose your current company? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to work?
I knew that I wanted to work for a company that would allow me to deepen my understanding of the sustainability challenges faced by businesses across various sectors. What attracted me to Sustainability Roundtable was their diverse client portfolio, spanning industries such as Health and Life Sciences, Software, and Corporate Operations. This variety enables me to explore the unique nuances of how different companies, like Harley-Davidson or Thermo Fisher, approach reducing their Scope 2 emissions and the distinct decarbonization strategies they use. I appreciate that this role offers continuous learning as I develop my specific area of expertise within the sustainability field.
What do you think has been the ROI on your Georgetown MS-ESM degree?
I believe one of the most significant returns on investment was gaining clarity on how I want to shape my career. This was nurtured and cultivated not only through the coursework, but also by learning about the roles and experiences of my cohort members. I found the experience invaluable, especially as someone early in my career. It’s equally beneficial, however, for those looking to pivot their careers or deepen their expertise in the field.
What piece of advice do you wish you had been given during your MS-ESM?
I wish my cohort would have had “learning sessions” from each other earlier on. My classmates had work experience from various sectors and regions around the world, and it would have been valuable to learn more from their perspectives. For instance, my classmate Sydney hosted a session on Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) based on her studies and industry experience. The event was well-attended and highly engaging for all that attended.
