The support Grace Rebollo ’23 found for her disability from professors at George Mason University who understood her individual needs was one of the driving forces that led her to pursue a Master’s in Management at the Costello College of Business.
As an undergraduate, Rebollo studied international/global studies but as she neared graduation, she had a desire to build the business skills that were not in her undergraduate curriculum.
Rebollo, now a Student Ambassador for the Master's in Management (MSM) program, represents Costello College of Business graduate programs to the external and internal communities, embodying excellence and sharing her own student experiences to prospective students. Originally from Springfield, Virginia, Rebollo is expected to graduate in 2024. Recently, we had the opportunity to chat with Rebollo to learn more about her journey, and why she chose Mason’s MSM program.
Why did you pursue the MS in Management program, and why George Mason University?
I graduated from George Mason University with my bachelor's degree in global affairs. This gave me a familiarity with the university and the admissions process, making it more comfortable. It also helped me understand my expectations in regards to how long the process would take and what would be needed. In my time at Mason, all my professors were dedicated towards their courses and students, so I knew that I could expect that same attitude from the MSM professors and staff. My career goal has always been to work in the federal government and have something to do with foreign policy. While studying global affairs, I was very much able to understand world politics, but I was not very confident in my leadership skills. When I heard of the MSM program, I thought it was the perfect fit for me. I originally thought a master's program was something I couldn't do because of the qualifications needed, but the MSM program was made for students who just graduated and didn't have much work experience. It was also for students who didn't have a business background and the program would help develop those skills. Topics like organizational behavior are things that I heard about but did not know the exact meaning or importance. By combining the knowledge I'm gaining with the knowledge from my previous degree, I can more clearly see my future career path.
Can you tell us an interesting fact about yourself?
I'm completely deaf on my left side. It's been this way since I was a child so I'm very used to it. I would say that many people dealing with a disability would know the term 'self-advocate.' Being able to communicate our needs to others is such an important skill to have, especially when lack of communication can affect your quality of life. I have dealt with many types of reactions from teachers regarding my disability. Some very negative and others positive, but I am glad to say that Mason's response has always been positive. If I had not gone to Mason for my bachelor's degree, I think it would have been something that would worry me about the program. You frequently hear horror stories about inconsiderate professors and staff that it is easy to be fearful. Mason gave me a lot of support with talking to professors and understanding my individual needs. I knew the quality of care that I received during my time as an undergraduate would not be different as a graduate student, and I was right. I don't think I would've thought about pursuing a master's degree, or even completing my bachelor's degree, without solid support from the institution.
What are the highlights of your experience so far?
The highlight for me has been my fellow students. Because we are in a cohort, we have become close with one another and have bonded throughout our first module. I am someone who has never been very good at public speaking. I have always become nervous when I know I must give some sort of presentation, but having a cohort allows me to relax because I already know the people I am presenting to. Even if there is a time when someone messes up, everyone is supportive and does their best to give advice for the next time. Also, because we've grown closer, we are able to be more open. During group projects, we are all able to say our opinions in a calm manner. It doesn't feel as though someone is always talking over another person. We are all very respectful of each other's thoughts and ideas and want everyone to feel included. I am thankful that we're getting along so well after the first module and I'm excited to see how relationships grow as we continue.
What goals do you have for the future?
While I would like to still work in the federal government, I am also interested in international business. While I was studying abroad in Incheon, South Korea, I had the honor to see the U.S. Ambassador give a speech. Ambassador Del Corso stressed the importance of political ties, and what he sees in the future for our international relationship. I was inspired by this speech because he represented someone that was confident in what they were saying. He was self-assured and truly like a bridge between two people. It was the first time that I saw someone embody what I want to do and who I want to be. This was someone who knew how to speak and motivate others. He also had a deep knowledge about other cultures. and his words seemed to reach them. This led me to commit to taking the TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) and JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) for my future. By having proof of my proficiency in these languages, it will help open doors for me in whatever space I choose to work in, government or business.
Do you have any advice for aspiring candidates for your program?
Now, more than ever, I think graduate school seems unattainable for many people. It could be something that you may not have the confidence to pursue. I was also like that in the beginning. I had finished my undergraduate degree and thought that was it. And while I had a goal, I was still waiting to hear back from different employers. I felt like I had stagnated a bit. Like I had previously mentioned, the format of the MSM program was perfect for me. Being able to pursue a higher degree with no work experience, straight out of your undergrad is amazing. Many other programs require some sort of experience that many might not have. This gives new workers an opportunity to pad their resumes even before they've officially entered the market. The timeline of the program is also amazing. Spending only 1-2 years completing the program is incredibly helpful with this fast-paced job market. It seemed almost too good to be true when I first heard of the program. I think we are so hard-wired to believe that things have to be hard and seemingly impossible to achieve but they don't. You can do your best to get into this program, you can work hard towards your degree, and you can graduate. It really is just taking that first step in believing in yourself and applying.
George Mason University's multi-disciplinary master’s in management program lets students customize their graduate degree to what matters to them. Students gain foundational knowledge in business with master’s in management core coursework through the Costello College of Business, while focusing on their own career aspirations by earning a certificate from schools and colleges throughout Mason. Students build a master's program that enhances their skills and accelerates their career.
If you’re interested in learning more about Mason’s Master’s in Management program, register for an upcoming info session or request more information about the program here.