MBA + MS Design Innovation (MMM Program)at the McCORMICK SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING and KELLOGG SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT

Why did you choose MMM?

In undergrad I minored in Human-Centered Design, and through a number of experiential learning courses I found a passion for Design Thinking. In the role I took after graduating, I didn't get much of a chance to do that type of work, but I always held it in my mind as something I wanted to come back to. When I first heard of MMM as I was considering MBA programs, it felt too good to be true! The ability to pursue my MBA from Kellogg and round out my business acumen while also taking classes from McCormick to pivot back to human-centered problem solving work was an opportunity I couldn't pass up. Another important factor for me was the size of the program – being able to have a small, tight-knit community within the broader community of Kellogg was a huge draw, and it was something I didn't think I would have anywhere else!

What is life like as a MMM student?

Life as a MMM has been a wild ride, but in all the best ways! Even on the busiest days, I find comfort in always being able to lean on my MMM friends, whether it's for interview prep, help with homework, or even just taking a moment to chill in Gies Plaza between classes in the middle of a long day. Being on campus over the summer together allowed me to form really tight bonds with other MMMs, which was a major advantage coming into the fall while everyone else was still getting their feet under them. It's amazing to know that even as my schedule changes term to term with new classes, recruiting, and different extracurricular commitments, I'll almost always have at least one class with my MMM cohort, and even if we don't, I can always find some friends (and snacks!) in the MMM lounge. :)

What have you loved about your MMM experience?

• Our 4^th of July – we held a huge barbecue and hung out together all day, then capped it off with sitting on the lakefill to watch the fireworks!
• TONS of beach days – I'm from Southern California and I've never played as much beach volleyball as I did this summer!
• Catching the train down to a Cubs game and spending the whole day (before, during, and after the game) in Wrigleyville!
• Our "MMM Wedding" – without revealing too much, this was one of the best events of the summer!