Meet Maryland Smith’s MBA Class of 2018

Erin Moore

University of Maryland, Robert H. Smith School of Business 

Describe yourself in 15 words or less: A socially-conscious, eco-chic foodie who loves good company, good vibes and good music!

Hometown: Greensboro, North Carolina

Fun Fact About Yourself: I collect vinyl records. Over 100 and counting….

Undergraduate School and Major: North Carolina State University – B.S. Meteorology, Environmental Science minor

 

Employers and Job Titles Since Graduation:

2014 – 2016 Cornell University – Sustainability Engagement Manager

2012 – 2014 Cornell University – Energy Outreach Coordinator

2011 – 2012 North Carolina State University – Energy Data & Outreach Specialist

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: At Cornell University, I used my technical background to help tackle the climate change crisis. I led the development of a new engagement campaign to encourage more sustainable actions in residence halls, offices and labs. I was tasked with creating a new perception of a “sustainable lifestyle.” Through community surveys, focus groups and relationships with faculty, staff and students, I uncovered mindsets, misperceptions, barriers and opportunities for people to understand the connection between their lives and their surrounding environment.

With the help of colleagues and student leaders, I created programs and metrics that reduced energy usage, food waste, and solid waste on campus – resulting in $500,000 worth of savings to the university over 3 years. I became a role model for students with career interests in sustainability and social impact, and was able to embed sustainability in both individual lives and business operations at Cornell University. It was the perfect use of science and passion to create societal impact.

Looking back on your experience, what advice would you give to future business school applicants? Be yourself and let it shine. There is only one “you” in this world with your unique story and background. When tackling the business school essays, really think about what in your life has driven you to apply for business school and how an MBA will help you achieve your professional and personal goals. A truly authentic story will stand out if it really speaks to your values and personality. Be confident in your story and the value you can bring to a program.

What led you to choose this program for your full-time MBA? I chose to come to Smith for several reasons. First and foremost, the community and spirit of Smith is supportive. The right school fit was very important for me, and Smith matches both my values and career aspirations. Every time I interacted with Smith as a prospective student, I was reassured it was the right school for me. Secondly, the Smith faculty is renowned in their respective industries. They make sure Smith students are equipped with the technical and soft skills needed to be successful in their careers. Lastly, the University of Maryland is located in a metropolitan hub of industries and networks that add the overall Smith MBA experience and brand. Smith makes sure its students are able to tap into the immediate UMD alumni network and develop connections that continue to guide careers long after graduation.

Tell us about your dream job or dream employer at this point in your life? I would love to work for a major consumer goods company building brand value for products that meet society’s needs. It’s the perfect intersection between marketing and societal impact. As a brand manager, I would manage all facets of a consumer product design and launch, and use my creativity to develop innovative solutions to meet consumers’ needs. I could see myself working for Nestle, Johnson & Johnson, Unilever, Procter & Gamble to name few because of their global footprint and massive product inventory that people use on a daily basis.

What would you like your business school peers to say about you after you graduate from this program? I would want my peers to say that I was a team player and active member of the Smith family. I hope they will say that I am dependable, that I supported and championed their goals, and that I had a positive impact during our time at Smith.