Dr. Ayman El Tarabishy, Teaching Professor at the George Washington University School of Business, led his Business Essentials in Dynamic Markets class on a site visit to the Gallup Foundation, a long-standing partner of the school. The group included students from both the Accelerated MBA cohort and the online program, continuing a tradition of experiential learning visits that Dr. El Tarabishy has organized since 2015.
The delegation was welcomed by Josh Tinney, Senior Global Campus Recruiter at Gallup, who introduced students to the organization’s culture and ongoing role in shaping market trends.
A highlight of the visit was an exclusive session with Gallup Chairman Jim Clifton, who spoke candidly about the skills and mindset required to thrive in today’s turbulent business environment.
Clifton shared three key messages with the students. First, he emphasized the importance of being intentional in choosing career opportunities. Second, he encouraged them to move beyond job descriptions and become “builders” who create expertise and value within their organizations. Finally, he stressed that executives seek professionals who listen carefully and ask the right questions—traits he considers vital for leadership and innovation.
Challenging conventional wisdom, Clifton also argued that entrepreneurs are not reckless risk-takers but individuals who understand what it truly takes to succeed.
Dr. El Tarabishy expressed appreciation for Clifton’s continued support and for Gallup’s partnership with GW Business. “These opportunities give our students direct exposure to world-class leaders and help bridge classroom learning with real-world practice,” he said.
Also accompanying the delegation was Joseph Miranda, GW Business Assistant Dean of Operations, who underscored the school’s commitment to meaningful, hands-on learning experiences in the heart of Washington, D.C.