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 Fall 2024 Commencement, we sat down with a few students to learn about their experiences and the wisdom they've gained in the process.
Meet Caroline Madison, who is graduating with a concentration in Strategy and Innovation.
Where are you from?
I am from Peachtree Corners, Georgia.
Where did you go to high school?
I attended Duluth High School.
Who most influenced your decision to pursue business in college?
My dad was single-handedly the reason I chose to pursue business. As I grew older (and past my stubborn teenage years), I realized how wise, driven, and passionate he was toward his career. His infectious enthusiasm for his work gave me the first nudge toward looking into business as a potential career path. As I began to understand the impact of his work, it became easy for me to pursue business in college and leave a legacy like his.
Why did you choose the Scheller College of Business?
I chose the Scheller College of Business because of its strong focus on the intersection between business and technology. In today's rapidly evolving market, I recognized the importance of being in an environment that integrates cutting-edge technologies with the development of my business skills. This approach to learning made Scheller the ideal place for me to earn my degree, offering the ideal combination of staying at the forefront of new technologies while enhancing my business knowledge.
What concentration did you pursue and why?
I chose the Strategy and Innovation concentration because of its broad applicability and comprehensive approach. It combines core business strategy with innovative practices, making it highly relevant in today's dynamic market. I was especially drawn to how it integrates analytical thinking with creative strategies to solve complex business challenges.
What is your best piece of advice to an applicant hoping to get into Scheller College?
My biggest piece of advice to someone hoping to get into Scheller would be to get to know the people if given the opportunity. Scheller has such a tight-knit and unique community filled with supportive, driven, and innovative individuals. I have seen the collaborative culture throughout my courses, whether it be through group study sessions in the Undergrad Commons, unlikely friendships made through my concentration classes, or brainstorms to tackle deliverables to complete group projects. The people are truly what make Scheller exceptional, and it is something worth experiencing firsthand that goes beyond the classroom.
What is the biggest myth about Scheller College?
One of the biggest myths about Scheller is the misconception that there is a lack of overlap between concentrations. However, Scheller fosters a highly integrated learning environment where concentrations like Strategy and Innovation, Finance, and Information Technology naturally complement one another. Concepts from one concentration often appear in another, creating a cohesive learning experience. This integration has helped me approach business problems through a more holistic lens, giving me a broader perspective on how various aspects of business work together to address complex challenges.
As a business student in the heart of Tech Square, how do you think Scheller College embodies the intersection of business and technology?
Scheller embodies the intersection of business and technology through its unique location in Tech Square, considering the location is an innovation hub surrounded by global corporations, startups, and top research facilities. The proximity to Fortune 500 companies allows students the accessibility to immerse themselves in real-world applications of technology in business. Being in Tech Square also means constant exposure to the latest trends in technology and entrepreneurship. This unique blend of business skills and technological insight equips Scheller graduates to be highly sought after in a rapidly evolving digital economy.
What was your favorite course and what was the biggest insight you gained about business from it?
My favorite course was my Healthcare Consulting Practicum, taught by Professor Bill Todd. Working with Grady Health Foundation gave me invaluable hands-on experience in navigating healthcare systems' complexities while maintaining a patient-centric perspective. His course exemplified the importance of understanding the delicate balance between business and healthcare. Engaging in impactful work for an organization within the Atlanta community and an organization I have personal connection to, reinforced my passion for using business to drive meaningful change.
Who was your favorite professor and why?
My favorite professor was Dr. Aleks Rebeka. Throughout classes in Corporate Strategy and Foundations of Strategy, she challenged me with her innovative teaching, engaging discussion-based classes, creative and relevant projects, and a strong emphasis on feedback. Her approach to the classroom strengthened my academic abilities and helped me develop into a more confident and effective worker. The skills I gained from her classes were instrumental to my success during my internships, and my business toolkit would not be as robust as it is now without her guidance and mentorship. I truly believe I would not be where I am today without Dr. Rebeka's influence and encouragement.
What activities were you involved with on or off campus, and did your business education impact those activities in any way?
Throughout my time at Georgia Tech, I engaged in a variety of activities both on and off campus that enriched my personal and professional growth. As a member of the Undergraduate Consulting Club I learned more about the consulting industry through seminars, workshops, and panels. In addition, I was an active member of my sorority, where I found a community of strong, supportive women who encouraged me throughout my college journey. One of my most meaningful roles was as a mentor and teaching assistant for Georgia Tech's EXCEL program, where I had the privilege of mentoring four students. I developed close relationships with each student and felt fulfilled by guiding them to achieve their goals each semester.
As a GT1000 team leader for a first-year seminar designed to help students transition into college, I had the privilege of guiding students in navigating Scheller while encouraging them to take full advantage of the many opportunities available on campus. This role allowed me to share insights on maximizing academic and extracurricular experiences—a rewarding full-circle moment, as I had taken the same course during my first semester.
Where did you intern/co-op during school?
I've had the opportunity to intern in various roles throughout my time at Scheller. I interned at the Carpathian Foundation in Budapest, Hungary during the summer of 2022 through the Institute for Leadership and Social Impact's Leadership for Social Good Study Abroad Program.
For my 2023 summer internship, I joined Boston Consulting Group as a Growing Future Leaders summer associate in Washington, D.C. and returned as a summer associate in 2024. I'm so grateful to have gained various work experiences throughout my time at Georgia Tech, and I am confident that my internships will be very helpful once I begin my full-time role.
Where will you be working after graduation?
I will be working at the Boston Consulting Group as an associate in the Washington D.C. office.
How did the Scheller College undergraduate career education program assist you with your job efforts? Did you end up working or interning for one of your top choice companies?
I attribute a lot of my success to the mentorship I received throughout my time at Scheller. The Boston Consulting Group was my top choice, but without the resources available at the Undergraduate Programs Office and career education program, I would not have had the same level of guidance or access to key networking opportunities that helped me stand out as an applicant and land my top internship.
Who would you like to thank most for your success?
I owe my success to my parents, but especially to my mother. Her unwavering support and belief in me have been the foundation of everything I've achieved. She made countless sacrifices to ensure I had every opportunity to succeed, and her love and guidance have been a constant source of motivation. She taught me the value of hard work, authenticity, perseverance, and kindness, and I carry those lessons with me in everything I do. Without her, I wouldn't be where I am today, and I am endlessly grateful for her impact on my life.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I am trilingual and have dual citizenship in Ecuador.
What are some of your hobbies?
A few of my hobbies include traveling, reading, working out, and baking.
What are the top two items on your bucket list?
I would love to visit all seven continents. I'm currently at three out of seven, so there's still a long way to go. I would also love to live abroad for a year!