Inside the New Full-time MBA Consulting Project: Connecting Classroom and Experiential Learning for Industry Impact

Graduate | Feb 18, 2026 | Gabelli School of Business

During the spring 2026 semester, the Gabelli School of Business is launching a new applied consulting project for students in the Full-time MBA program, designed to deepen experiential learning while strengthening ties with alumni and industry partners. In the interview that follows, Sertan Kabadayi, PhD, Joseph Keating, SJ, Distinguished Professor in Business and program director of the Full-time and Professional MBA programs, elaborates on the origins of this new initiative, provides details on its structure, and focuses on the impact it will have on the education students receive.

How did the idea for this consulting project come about?

Professor Kabadayi: In the past, the full-time MBA program included consulting projects as part of the Global Immersion Program, but those engagements were short-term and tied to companies in the cities students were visiting. The client experience wasn’t ideal, and students didn’t always benefit in the long run. When I became program director, based upon my own observations and student feedback, I made the decision to separate consulting projects from the Global Immersion and create something more intentional and impactful.

What makes this new model better for students?

Professor Kabadayi: This consulting project is a semester-long engagement involving mainly New York City–based companies across a broad range of industries. These longer commitments allow students to build real relationships with client representatives, understand how U.S.-based organizations operate, and work through more complex business challenges over time. We hope the experience leads not only to stronger learning outcomes, but potentially to summer internships or even full-time roles.

What was the process for choosing which companies would be involved?

Professor Kabadayi: Planning began last September with an open call shared on LinkedIn and through direct outreach to recent alumni. We received more than 20 proposals from companies of different sizes and across industries. A review team evaluated each proposal based upon learning objectives, industry exposure, feasibility within one semester, and the type of challenge presented. From there, we selected eight companies and matched them with students through a very thoughtful, structured process.

How were students matched to their projects?

Professor Kabadayi: After finalizing the scope with each client, we shared detailed project descriptions with students and asked them to rank their top five choices. It was important that the process was driven by the students’ interests, so assignments were made based upon preferences, professional experience, and career goals. We were happy that nearly all students received one of their top two choices. Each project also has a dedicated faculty advisor to guide students, provide feedback, and ensure high-quality deliverables throughout the duration of the project.

Based upon the introduction of this new initiative how does the semester unfold for students?

Professor Kabadayi: From the outset, the process is about learning, collaboration, and professional growth. Students meet first with their faculty advisor and then with the client representative to understand what needs to be achieved. Throughout the semester, teams receive ongoing faculty guidance, and they check in with clients several times during the semester. The project culminates in a written consulting report and an executive-level presentation delivered to the company in early May.

How are alumni involved in this initiative?

Professor Kabadayi: Six of the eight client representatives are Gabelli School alumni, many of whom graduated from the Full-time or Executive MBA programs. Their enthusiasm and commitment have been incredible. This is a new way to engage alumni and provide them with an opportunity to give back and stay involved. For me, personally, it’s also very rewarding to see former students now in executive roles working with our current students in a true full-circle experience.

What’s your vision for the future?

Professor Kabadayi: This project checks so many boxes. It offers opportunities for applied learning and helps enrich skills development while encouraging alumni engagement and building strong ties with industry partners. We’re excited about its potential and look forward to sharing student and client success stories at the end of the semester.