As part of the Georgia Tech Scheller College of Business Countdown to Commencement series, we interviewed a few soon-to-be graduates from our Undergraduate program to learn about their backgrounds, why they chose Scheller, and what they plan to do after the Fall 2021 commencement.
Meet Matt Pacifico who is graduating with a concentration in finance and a certificate in business analytics.
Where are you from?
Johns Creek, GA.
Where did you attend high school?
Northview High School.
What is the biggest lesson you gained from studying business?
The world we live in is driven by analytics, and data touches every part of our lives. As a business major, I found it essential to take advantage of the opportunities Scheller provides to lean into the world of data and analytics and understand how they can drive business decisions.
What advice would you give to a student looking to major in a business-related field?
Business is such a broad field that it gives you the opportunity to explore different areas and find what interests you. It’s okay to not know exactly what area of business you want to study your freshman year. Take time to investigate different areas, and you’ll end up finding something that you’re truly excited about.
As a business student in the heart of Tech Square, how do you think Scheller College embodies the intersection of business and technology?
I was so lucky to go to a school that recognizes the importance of technology in business. Almost every one of my classes was taught through a technological lens. This gives Scheller students a leg up compared to other business schools. During my time at Scheller, I was able to develop the technical skills necessary to succeed in today’s business environment while simultaneously applying those skills through my coursework and internships. “The Intersection of Business and Technology” is a phrase that most Scheller students are familiar with, and I believe it’s probably the most accurate way to describe the activities going on inside Scheller’s doors.
What was your favorite business course?
Database Management.
Who is your favorite professor?
Dr. Jacqueline Garner. I was able to get to know Dr. G very well through the years. I took three or four classes with her as well as worked with her through the Sports Business Club. Dr. G can light up a room like no one I’ve ever seen. She makes the extra effort to truly get to know her students, and she’s a second-to-none lecturer. Dr. G is a big reason that I chose my finance concentration, and I can’t thank her enough for all she’s done for me during my time at Scheller.
What has surprised you most about majoring in business at Scheller?
The professors at Scheller truly invest in their students’ success. Each one goes above and beyond when it comes to helping their students.
What are some of your extracurricular activities, community work, and leadership roles during college?
President of the Sports Business Club, vice president of new members for the Scheller Business Ambassadors, and philanthropy chair at Beta Theta Pi.
Where have you interned during your college career?
Global procurement analyst, The Coca-Cola Company; marketing intern, Georgia Tech Athletic Association; intern, Morgan Stanley Wealth Management; and business analyst intern, Capital One.
Where will you be working after graduation?
As a data analyst for The Atlanta Falcons.
Looking back over your experience, what is the one thing you’d do differently in business school and why?
I would have chosen to participate in the Denning T&M Program. It’s such an awesome opportunity, but I just didn’t know it was something I wanted my freshman year.
Which academic, extra-curricular or personal achievement are you most proud of?
Restarting the Sports Business Club was one of my proudest achievements during my time at Tech. My colleagues and I poured countless hours into building this organization, and I feel as if we succeeded in our mission to provide Tech students with the opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes look at what it’s like to work in the sports industry. We brought in amazing speakers, such as Rich McKay (CEO of Atlanta Falcons), Darren Eales (President of Atlanta United), Todd Stansbury (GT Athletics Director), and Mark Cuban (Owner of Dallas Mavericks). We built an awesome organization, and it’s my hope that the organization’s success continues to grow as we pass the torch down.
Which classmate do you most admire?
Patrick Nolen. He graduated last spring, but Pat and I were in a bunch of classes together and are also friends outside of Scheller. He’s someone who works hard, asks good questions, and is a great team member.
Who would you most want to thank for your success?
Retired Major General Ron Johnson. He’s a professor in the College of Engineering’s Industrial and Systems Engineering (ISYE) school and the faculty advisor of the Sports Business Club. He’s been a role model for me over the last two years and is someone who pushed me outside my comfort zone and challenged me to always extend beyond what I think is possible. Without him, I wouldn’t be joining the Falcons after graduation.
What are the top two items on your professional bucket list?
To be the Georgia Tech Athletics Director, and not to get fired from being the Georgia Tech Athletics Director!
Fun fact about yourself:
I’m related to the Cake Boss, Buddy Valastro!