Jamal Starling

Georgetown University, McDonough School of Business

“A passionate and empathetic leader with a purpose to foster positive change and inclusive growth.”

Hometown: Long Island, New York

Fun Fact About Yourself: I share a birthday with one of my siblings (I am a twin!)

Undergraduate School and Major: Cornell University, Nutritional Sciences

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Accenture Federal Services, Associate Manager

What excites you most about studying in Washington, DC? Studying in Washington D.C., is incredibly exciting because of the unique blend of history, culture, and opportunity. The chance to engage with some of the nation’s brightest minds and historic institutions offers a hands-on learning experience that’s hard to match. Plus, the diverse communities provide endless opportunities for networking and relationship-building with individuals from all walks of life. Also, the city’s rich history and active cultural scene means there’s always something new to explore!

Aside from your classmates and location, what was the key part of Georgetown McDonough’s MBA programming that led you to choose this business school and why was it so important to you? One key aspect of Georgetown McDonough’s MBA program that stood out to me was its strong emphasis on its Jesuit values of ethical leadership and social responsibility. This focus aligns with my values and career aspirations, as I believe that business leaders have a crucial role in addressing societal challenges. The program’s integration of ethics into the curriculum and its commitment to developing leaders who are not only effective but also principled resonated deeply with me. It’s important to be part of an institution that prioritizes not just profit but also purpose, as I want to contribute to positive change in the business world. The opportunity to learn from faculty who are thought leaders in this area and engage with initiatives that promote social impact was a decisive factor in my choice.

What course, club or activity excites you the most at Georgetown McDonough? The Global Business Experience (GBE) at Georgetown McDonough excites me the most because it provides a unique opportunity to engage directly with global business challenges while working alongside executives from various industries and Fortune 500 companies. This hands-on experience will allow myself and my peers to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts, which is invaluable for developing practical skills and understanding diverse market dynamics.

The chance to travel abroad and immerse myself in different cultures while collaborating with multinational organizations is something I find particularly appealing. It aligns perfectly with my passion for international business and my desire to gain a deeper understanding of global markets.

Georgetown McDonough programming focuses heavily on instilling a global mindset. Why is exposure to global diversity so critical to business success? Exposure to global diversity is critical to business success because it fosters innovation, enhances problem-solving, and improves decision-making by incorporating a range of perspectives. In today’s interconnected world, understanding different cultures and market dynamics is essential for developing strategies that resonate with diverse customer bases and navigating international challenges effectively.

For example, in one of my previous projects, I had to conduct a benchmarking analysis to determine what makes a world-class financial regulator. To do so, I had to understand how to implement financial regulation best practices by researching foreign entities. This allowed me to be thorough in my recommendations, as I had a global mindset.

Looking at your recruitment, what was the moment when you realized Georgetown McDonough was the right program for you? Why? The moment I realized Georgetown McDonough was the right program for me was during my interactions with the admissions officers and current students throughout the recruitment process. From my very first conversation, the admissions team was incredibly approachable and eager to answer my questions, making me feel valued as a prospective student. They took the time to share insights about the program and the unique culture at McDonough, which reinforced my interest in the school.

Additionally, when I had the opportunity to speak with current students, I was struck by their genuine enthusiasm for the program and the close-knit community. They shared personal stories about their experiences, highlighting the collaborative spirit and the support they received from both peers and faculty. Their openness and willingness to engage in meaningful conversations made me feel welcomed and excited about the prospect of joining such an inclusive environment.

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: My biggest accomplishment in my career so far is being promoted to the associate manager position at Accenture Federal Services. This achievement was a culmination of hard work, dedication, and a commitment to developing strong relationships with both my team and our clients. I was able to show my ability to be a leader and in a management position.

Looking ahead two years, what would make your MBA experience successful? To make my MBA experience successful over the next two years, I aim to refine my leadership skills, deepen my business acumen, and cultivate a strong professional network. By honing my leadership abilities, I will be better equipped to inspire and guide teams, fostering a collaborative and innovative environment. Expanding my knowledge in various business disciplines will enable me to make informed decisions and develop strategic insights, critical for tackling complex challenges. Building a robust network of peers, mentors, and industry professionals will not only provide valuable support and guidance, but also open doors to future opportunities. Together, these elements will empower me to excel in my career and make a meaningful impact in the business world.

DON’T MISS: MEET GEORGETOWN MCDONOUGH’S MBA CLASS OF 2026