WinShape
First-year MBA students bonded during orientation, including activities at WinShape. PHOTO: Allison Shirreffs

The Goizueta MBA Class of 2013 was on and around campus the week of Aug. 1, working through orientation activities that will build relationships with classmates and prepare them for the rigorous coursework ahead.

The time is spent developing friendships and setting foundations for intense learning.

MORE ON THE MBA PROGRAM

In 2008 Goizueta revamped its full-time curriculum to put all core classes in the first semester. It allows for more electives earlier in the program and creates a laser-like focus for first-year students.

Brian Mitchell, associate dean for the full-time MBA program, told Bloomberg BusinessWeek students are required to complete online math courses with an option of attending a week-long “academic boot camp”

In 2010, the boot camp included 23 hours of math, accounting and spreadsheets… In three days.

“It was intense — that was some of the feedback we received,” added Corey Dortch, associate director of the MBA program in an interview with BW.

“It was very well received by our students who attended. It was one of the things they needed to be reminded of, and they were prepared to tackle those problems in the core classes.”

But the coursework isn’t the only intense moments.

Students also attend the WinShape College Program in Rome, Ga. with activities designed to build teamwork skills. First-year students also had opportunities to meet the school’s staff over lunch.

ABOUT THE CLASS OF 2013

  • The class of 140 students arrive at Goizueta with an average of five years work experience
  • They are a diverse group (34 percent international students , 28 percent women and 10 percent minority)
  • There are six military veterans representing the Air Force, Army, Marines and Navy
  • In addition, 11 students will pursue joint degrees including  JD/MBA, MBA/MPH and MBA/MDiv