Alissa Smith
Troy, Michigan, United States
Full-time with Co-op
Hope College (Business and Communication)
Class of 2023
I always envisioned an MBA program to be very cut-throat, but the DeGroote students and professors push collaborative leadership. I love that everyone across the cohorts are very willing to help each other with coursework, networking, or just meeting up for a coffee! As an international student, I have always felt at home with DeGroote.
Why DeGroote?
I chose DeGroote because of the valuable co-op experience and welcoming community! The opportunities to explore my interests both in the classroom and across student groups are truly unrivaled. I was also given the opportunity to play a varsity sport at McMaster while obtaining my MBA, and the support I received from both the MBA and athletic departments solidified my choice in DeGroote!
Why an MBA?
I chose to pursue an MBA to grow my interests in specific business sectors and explore my own path in business. An MBA will also help expand my professional network while working alongside an impressive cohort of students. I aspire to step into a leadership role early in my career, and the DeGroote MBA will provide me with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in any avenue I choose!
What surprised you about DeGroote?
The warm and welcoming community among all students and staff was the most surprising! I always envisioned an MBA program to be very cut-throat, but the DeGroote students and professors push collaborative leadership. I love that everyone across the cohorts are very willing to help each other with coursework, networking, or just meeting up for a coffee! As an international student, I have always felt at home with DeGroote.
What piece of advice would you give to anyone considering doing their MBA at DeGroote?
Get involved in any of the fantastic student groups and professional societies!
What has been the highlight of your DeGroote experience so far?
The highlight of my DeGroote experience so far has been attending virtual happy hours with my MBA classmates! Since the entirety of my first-year was online due to the pandemic, these virtual game nights and happy hours helped me make great friends and relieve stress. I love how close I have become with my classmates, even though we have only interacted online!
Aside from being an MBA Student Ambassador, what other extra-curricular activities have you been involved with while at DeGroote?
- Varsity Women’s Basketball
- DeGroote MBA Students LinkedIn Team
Tell us one fun fact about you!
I solo-backpacked through the Australian Outback!
