Biography
Oftentimes, parents, siblings, grandparents and friends can be a motivating factor when making a life decision such as getting an MBA. This was the case for David Hinshillwood. Growing up, David’s grandfather was a major professional inspiration for the New Jersey native. So, when his grandfather, or “Poppo,” was diagnosed with cancer, David knew it was time to seize the moment. “His journey showed me that there’s no time like the present to better yourself, pursue your passions and make a difference. Sometimes, we don’t get a ‘tomorrow’ or a ‘next time,’ and I want my grandfather to see my impact.”
As someone who did not have the “traditional” MBA background, David was looking for a close-knit community that would be willing to accept him for who he was. “Paramount to all else was the overwhelming sense of community I felt throughout the application process, whether it was at Welcome Weekend or after formally accepting my offer to join the incoming class. I needed a place where I would feel supported by my peers, my professors and the administration as a whole.”
One of the key values David found while in the program was not only the close community but the diversity within the school itself. “As an out and proud LGBTQ-identified business student, I wanted an experience where I'd feel welcomed, supported and not judged for my sexuality, which has been extremely beneficial to my growth.” Throughout his journey, he found Goizueta continuously promoted growth through community impact within the school, Atlanta and even internationally. “It's allowed me to feel comfortable being out during the interview process, perform in drag for my classmates and continues to help me develop into a more empathetic, people-first leader at the university. It has opened doors to my professors' offices and hearts, and I couldn't be more grateful.”