Caitlin Boyle, Georgetown MS-ESM Class of 2024
Age: 23
Hometown: Ridgefield, Connecticut
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Fordham University Class of 2023. Environmental Studies & Communications and Culture double major with a concentration in Media Studies
Pre-MS-ESM Work Experience: ESG and Sustainability Management Intern, The Fehlig Group, January 2024-August 2024, Corporate Sustainability Consulting; Assistant Rowing Coach, Georgetown University, August 2023-August 2024, Sports Management; Assistant Rowing Coach, Fordham Preparatory School, August 2022-August 2023, Sports Management; Land Management Intern, Fresh Air Fund and Hudson Highland Land Trust, June 2022-August 2022, Environmental Conservation
Post-MS-ESM Work Experience: Zero Waste and Circular Economy Project Manager, Microsoft, August 2024-Present, Corporate Sustainability
Why did you choose to pursue an M.S. Environment and Sustainability Management?
I have always been passionate about working in the environmental field, but it wasn’t until my junior year at Fordham University that I realized I wanted to pursue a career in corporate sustainability. At that time, I had little knowledge of sustainable business practices or corporate environmental responsibilities. I recognized that earning a degree in Environment and Sustainability Management would provide me with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in this field. The curriculum’s unique blend of environmental science, sustainable business, and the capstone project were particularly appealing.
After attending the MS-ESM accepted students’ event in the spring of my senior year, I knew the program was the perfect fit for me. Meeting Vishal Agrawal, Program Director; Seneca Lee, Program Coordinator; fellow prospective students, and other key professors and administrators during that event helped solidify my decision to pursue this path.
Why did you choose Georgetown McDonough? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose Georgetown McDonough because of its strong academic reputation, particularly in the areas of business and sustainability; central to my career aspirations. The school’s focus on developing business leaders with a commitment to social responsibility and environmental impact was a key factor in my decision. Additionally, Georgetown’s location in Washington, D.C. offered unmatched access to global organizations, policy-making institutions, and opportunities for networking within industries that align with my career goals. The opportunity to study in a collaborative environment with peers and professors who share a passion for sustainability made my decision to attend McDonough an easy choice.
What about your Georgetown MS-ESM experience prepared you for your current career?
My Georgetown MS-ESM experience has been instrumental in preparing me for my current career at Microsoft. The program’s focus on practical, real-world applications of sustainability and environmental management has been invaluable. Projects such as consulting assignments and case studies gave me hands-on experience tackling real-world challenges, which translated well into the problem-solving and strategic thinking required in my current role. The support I received from the MS-ESM program, including career coaching, networking opportunities, and access to Georgetown’s vast alumni network, also played a crucial role in connecting me with professionals in the sustainability field and positioning me for success after graduation.
My favorite ESM course was ESG Investing, taught by Professor McKenna. I found the content both fascinating and highly relevant to my future career. What stood out most to me, however, was the structure of the final. Rather than a written exam or a traditional presentation, our group gathered around a round table with Professor McKenna in a study room in Hariri, where we had our presentation displayed on a monitor. Instead of simply presenting, we engaged in a conversation about the material as we went through our slide deck. This interactive approach has been incredibly valuable in my current role at Microsoft, where I frequently use this conversational style when proposing new projects to my superiors or our financial team.
Why did you choose your current company? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to work?
I was drawn to Microsoft because of its strong sustainability team and its ambitious environmental goals. The company’s commitment to environmental advocacy is deeply embedded in its core values, and I wanted to work for an organization where sustainability is prioritized at the highest levels. I was particularly impressed by its 2025 zero waste goal across its global operations. The opportunity to contribute to such a mission was a key factor in my decision. Joining Microsoft’s sustainability team in 2024, with a focus on achieving the zero waste goal, has been an incredible opportunity. It’s been fulfilling to contribute directly to such a significant initiative, and I’m proud to be part of an organization making such a substantial impact early in my career.
What do you think has been the ROI on your Georgetown MS-ESM degree?
The ROI on my Georgetown MS-ESM degree has been significant, particularly because it provided me with the tools and knowledge to pursue my passion for corporate sustainability directly. Coming out of Fordham with a clear direction for my career, I knew that the MS-ESM program would be the ideal next step to deepen my expertise and accelerate my path into the sustainability field. The comprehensive curriculum, combined with Georgetown’s strong focus on real-world applications, gave me the technical skills, strategic insights, and networking opportunities that were essential for success in the field of environmental management.
That said, I’ve also seen how the ROI of this degree varies for different individuals. Many of my peers in the program were looking to pivot into sustainability careers from other industries. For them, pursuing a master’s degree at a later stage in their professional lives made perfect sense because it allowed them to build on their previous experiences while gaining the specific skills needed to transition into sustainable business practices. This diversity of backgrounds within the cohort enriched my learning experience and reinforced how the MS-ESM degree can serve as a powerful tool for career development, whether you’re starting fresh or looking to pivot into a new field.
What piece of advice do you wish you had been given during your MS-ESM?
As one of the youngest candidates in the MS-ESM program, it was easy to compare my progress and achievements to those of my older, more experienced peers. It was sometimes intimidating, especially when networking with professionals in the sustainability field who had been working in the industry for much longer. If I could offer advice to myself in the ESM program, I would remind myself that I bring a unique set of experiences and a fresh perspective that are valuable. Every individual’s journey is different, and my voice and contributions are just as important as anyone else’s. As a young woman in business, it’s crucial to have confidence in your skills, knowledge, and value. Believing in what you bring to the table is essential for personal growth, professional success, and meaningful connections in any field.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
I would like to thank my parents, Donna and Naoise Boyle, for always supporting my dreams. I’m also grateful to my sister, Caroline, my grandma, Emma, and my best friend, Stefania, whose love and dedication have been invaluable to me. I wouldn’t be where I am today without my family.
