Georgia Tech Scheller College of Business students come to learn, explore, and build community. As they move forward in their careers, they take everything they've learned and use it to power innovation in industries and businesses across the globe. In celebration of Spring 2024 Commencement, we sat down with a few students to learn about their experiences and the wisdom they've gained in the process.
Meet Charles Moody, who is graduating from the Evening MBA program.
Hometown:
Stone Mountain, GA
Describe yourself in 15 words or less:
Modern-day renaissance man
Tell me about the person who most influenced your decision to pursue an MBA?
I decided to pursue my MBA when I noticed that I had specific knowledge gaps. My father taught me how to run a business, but I didn’t know how to start one or how to test the validity of a new idea. So, I decided to pursue an MBA to gain knowledge and the toolset to start my own company or help grow a business.
What was your favorite business course and why?
Hands down, the Ti:GER classes. Ti:GER gave me the knowledge I needed to be successful in business. Classes are designed to simulate a startup environment, giving you the opportunity to test what you’re learning.
What advice would you give to an incoming Evening MBA student?
Take your time adjusting to the program. I spent my first two semesters learning the ropes before joining clubs and choosing electives. Also, read the emails! You will get a ton of emails, and it’s easy to hit the delete button, but you’ll miss many great events and activities if you do.
What activities were you involved with on or off campus, and did your business education impact those activities in any way?
On campus, I served as the vice president of alumni relations for Blacks in Business (BiB) and hosted panels for new student orientation. I also participated in marketing campaigns and even made it on a billboard! Off-campus, I serve as the undergraduate advisor for the Chi Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc.
What was your favorite MBA event or tradition at Scheller, and why?
Schnacks! Part of being an Evening MBA student is rushing to class from work and dealing with hunger pains during class because you didn’t pack a second lunch or snack. So, any chance to eat before class feels like a favor from God. It’s also a great time to catch up with other students and friends who have a different class schedule.
What was your career journey in the Evening MBA program? Did you pivot, get a promotion, or change jobs?
During my Scheller journey, I left my construction job and co-founded a start-up with other Scheller students. After graduation, I plan to continue working on my startup and a few entrepreneurial projects I have lined up, including purchasing an existing business.
What are the top two items on your professional bucket list?
1. Create a video game studio
2. Create a product that’s popular in Japan
What was a moment when you had to practice persistence and/or resilience while in the MBA program?
During the first semester of the program, I suffered a personal loss that rocked me to my core. I had to find the strength to finish the semester strong and was able to keep my GPA up while dealing with grief. Luckily, I had my Scheller friends to keep me motivated.
What is the biggest lesson you gained from your Scheller MBA?
The road to success is not a solo journey. The school can teach you all the frameworks and methods, but the true key to success lies in your network and your team.
What will you be doing to celebrate your graduation?
I’ll be going to eat with friends. The older you get, the more you cherish celebrations with the people closest to you.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I love to create stories and design new products. While I have an eye for design, I cannot draw to save my life unless stick figures count.