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

Why did you choose MMM?

My interest in innovation started with Design for America (DFA) back in undergrad at Rice. Since DFA actually started at Northwestern, I had already spent a few summers attending conferences at the Segal Design Institute, so I knew how special the energy and how great the leaders are here.

I actually spent a lot of time debating whether to choose MMM when decision time came around, but it ultimately felt like the perfect business program for me. I chose MMM because it’s the only place where I can keep my "designer" identity while building out the financial and strategic mindsets needed to turn an abstract idea into a real-world venture. And I value being part of an impressive and supportive alumni network for the long-term. 

My advice for anyone looking into the MMM program is to connect with current students or alum through coffee chats to get their first-hand perspective on the value they have received from being part of the MMM program - I don’t think you’ll be disappointed!

What is life like as a MMM student?

Currently, life is very busy, but in a great way. You’re essentially balancing two worlds: taking 3-4 classes at Kellogg and 1 class at Segal each quarter. My Segal courses are usually the highlight of my week – they’re interactive, project-based, and a great time to really bond with your cohort in the MMM lounge.

Outside of class, I chose to live in downtown Evanston specifically to be close to the action. Between recruiting, club events, and Small Group Dinners (SGDs), there is always something happening, and normally space in your schedule to participate in these fun activities. Even though I’ve always lived in big cities, I love that I can just walk a few blocks and be at a friend's house for a dinner party or a social event. You really never get bored!

What have you loved about your MMM experience?

I love that MMM creates this "in-built," cozy community within the much larger Kellogg student body. We really felt that bond over the summer when the MMMs and 1Ys were the only full-time business students on campus. It made the program feel like a family (or FaMMM, as we call it) right from the start. Because our class size is limited to about 60-70 people, you truly get to know everyone on a personal level.

I’ve also really enjoyed seeing how my design background translates to things like entrepreneurship and marketing. It’s been eye-opening to realize that the frameworks, processes, and mindsets I used as an architectural designer are the same ones used by successful business leaders – it’s just a different way of applying the same curiosity. As someone who grew up in the 'studio culture' of architecture school, it’s been rewarding to find a new, yet equally passionate, way to turn a vision into a reality.