Neal Parker is an Evening MBA student at Georgia Tech. Recently, the Office of Graduate Studies had the opportunity to learn more about Parker and his time at Tech. Here's what he said. 

When did you know Georgia Tech was the place you wanted to go for graduate school?

I first came to Georgia Tech to study Industrial Engineering as an undergrad and graduated in 2009. I was fascinated with solving large-scale problems that businesses had within their operations. After undergrad, I went to work with Coca-Cola's North American supply chain strategy team. As I have grown in my career, going from helping plan for capability to launching new products and packages, I am seeing more and more of the opportunities we have to improve our supply chain performance. I chose Tech to pursue my MBA to gain a broader and more comprehensive business perspective to continue solving the complex problems that large supply chain organizations face.

What are the top three reasons you’d recommend Tech to other graduate students?

First, there’s Tech’s international reputation for applying technology and innovation to solving complex problems. Then, there’s the return on investment. And last, I appreciate the world-class networking opportunities that I have with others who are eager to take on today's business challenges.

What advice do you have for students who are applying to Tech?

Take time to consider the kinds of problems you would like to solve. Tech will be a place where you will be able to learn how to take on these problems and make an impact — no matter what degree path you choose.

What are a few things every graduate student should do while at Tech?

Take advantage of networking opportunities with fellow students and any international experience that might be offered as part of your program. Also, don’t miss out on the opportunity to connect to the Tech community by getting involved with clubs and service groups.