Building Confidence and Career Momentum in Georgetown’s Flex MBA Online Program

When Cristina De la Torre (MBA’26) began researching part-time MBA programs, she wanted more than convenience. She wanted a program that would challenge her academically, mirror the realities of a demanding career, and expand her leadership potential. As a manufacturing and supply chain professional at Danaher Corporation, De la Torre has advanced through multiple roles since starting as an intern. The MBA became a strategic next step in preparing for her upcoming role focused on AI deployment in operations and supply chain, where she will partner with external consultants. De la Torre credits her Georgetown coursework with strengthening her ability to collaborate confidently in these environments.

The Flex MBA Online at Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business proved to be the right match. The format allowed her to apply classroom concepts directly at work, building new skills, strengthening her business acumen, and accelerating her professional momentum.

Key Takeaways

• De la Torre chose the Flex MBA Online to balance a high travel schedule with a demanding supply chain career.
• Georgetown’s values-based community and flexible model supported her academic and professional goals.
• De la Torre will transition into a new role focused on AI deployment in operations and supply chain.
• The program strengthened her confidence, communication skills, and leadership presence.
• The Global Business Experience in Lisbon, Portugal, provided real client work, cultural learning, and career exposure.
• De la Torre recommends applying classroom learning immediately at work and connecting with faculty for guidance.

Why Georgetown’s Flex MBA Online Program

With a work schedule that requires travel 60 to 70% of the time, the Flex MBA Online was essential to De la Torre’s ability to succeed in graduate school. The model combines online core courses with the option to take on-campus electives, which provides structure and flexibility for working professionals.

Based in Washington, D.C., De la Torre has balanced online coursework with targeted in-person electives that align with her work travel rhythm. These experiences allow her to remain connected to faculty, peers, and the Georgetown network.

De la Torre was also drawn to Georgetown’s Jesuit values and its emphasis on principled leadership, community, and global perspective.

Balancing Work, School, and Life

Each week is planned in advance to account for work travel, live class sessions, and major deliverables. De la Torre uses reminders and calendar alerts to stay organized and proactive. Setting boundaries has been essential, including protecting Saturdays as a full day off and avoiding late work dinners that conflict with coursework.

“One of the hardest lessons was learning to say no — whether it’s a late work dinner or a social event,” De la Torre said. “Every ‘no’ is a sacrifice, but it’s how I stay true to my priorities. Boundaries aren’t about limitation; they’re about making space for success.”

How the MBA Strengthened Her Leadership and Confidence

Now in her final year, De la Torre says the MBA has expanded her leadership abilities and improved her decision-making skills. Courses incorporate public speaking, client presentations, and structured communication, which encourage clear and confident expression of complex ideas.

“Research gives me the facts; teamwork gives me perspective,” De la Torre said. “Together, they turn unfamiliar topics into confident conversations.”

A Global Experience That Brings Learning to Life

Flex MBA Online students participate in Georgetown McDonough’s Global Business Experience, a required international consulting project where students partner with executives to solve real-world challenges. In summer 2025, De la Torre traveled with classmates to Lisbon, Portugal, where her team partnered with INDITEX on a live client engagement. The experience offered practical insight into consulting and global business challenges.

Cultural and networking experiences, including a winery tour and an alumni event, strengthened peer connections and broadened De la Torre’s global perspective.

Advice for Prospective Flex MBA Online Students

De la Torre encourages future students to embrace the immediate application of classroom concepts to their professional environments. She also recommends connecting with faculty for guidance on linking course material to real-world business challenges.

“Don’t wait to apply what you learn — bring it straight into your day-to-day work,” she said. “The real value of the Flex MBA is seeing concepts come alive in real business challenges. Don’t hesitate to reach out to faculty; their guidance can turn theory into impact.”

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