My Scientific Interests in a Ph.D. at the University of Michigan

Upon the graduation, I was offered a job with “Radicall Communication” company as a Research Manager that gave me an opportunity to apply my theoretical knowledge in practice. It strengthened my interest in management research and turned it into a passion. I tried to keep studying more about market research, project management, strategy and organization structures. My academic background and strengths are shared in the University of Michigan supplemental essay.

My current and previous jobs gave me invaluable lessons. Working as a research and project manager with the rest of my team was definitely a worthwhile experience that played a big role in choosing a Ph.D. program. Throughout the various projects, I investigated markets and studied customer behavior and preferences, did psychographic analysis. Moreover, I helped to design strategies for communications to reach target audiences, executed successful product introductions by coordinating actions with social media, public relations and other internal teams, in addition, created and evaluated the effectiveness of marketing strategies in accordance with market trends and company’s goals.

These tasks required working with people at all levels, hence, putting me in the environment in which companies operate. Project deadlines, work stress, challenging presentations taught me to plan wisely and allocate my resources efficiently.

While working in companies helped me to gain a broad understanding of Georgian and European industries, my current teaching experience plays a crucial role in deciding on this Ph.D. After starting working as an Assistant Professor of Management School at Kutaisi International University, where I am involved in the teaching and research activities, I realized that I need a better understanding of business-related issues and further training in research methodology.

I am applying for a Ph.D. at the University of Michigan for number of reasons. Being a top-ranked public university, it offers a rigorous coursework with the emphasis on analytical skills, strategic management and research methodology. Strategy's doctoral program at the University of Michigan is a research-oriented program that commensurate with my interests and ensures my career in academia. The faculty’s reputation for close collaboration on research projects, socialization into a career of academic research and teaching are additional attractions and increases my motivation for studying in this university.

Even though my prime objective nowadays is studying and doing research, I have a vast range of interests, like music, travel, playing tennis and chess. I used to take part in many activities while in college and have won significant contests in chess. Besides, I had an opportunity to be a member of AIESEC organization and participate in two programs Global Citizen and Global Talent. I was lucky enough to be engaged in volunteering project at the NGO AMA (non-profit organization that aims to preserve the right of people with autism) in Brazil, where I got to experience interning in professional practice, personal developing, traveling through the country, experiencing a new culture and making lasting friendships. The other project helped me to gain leadership development experience through a Global Talent opportunity in ET/ICASO Education & Training School in China, where I served as a cultural Ambassador and English language teacher for Chinese students.

In conclusion, the University of Michigan encouraged me to submit this application, and I sincerely hope that the admissions committee will find that my experience and strengths meet the requirements of the University of Michigan Ph.D. in business administration.