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

Why did you choose MMM?

I vividly remember the moment I discovered MMM. I was traveling with friends, discussing my plans to pursue an MBA in the coming year while simultaneously researching schools (with a little help from ChatGPT). During the conversation, one of them asked me a thought-provoking question: What would an MBA add to your career that your 4+ years in management consulting haven’t already provided?

It was a fair question. I was doing great at BCG, working across various industries and projects. But deep down, I was craving something different—a return to the classroom and an opportunity to immerse myself in a more creative environment. 

Kellogg was already on my radar because of its reputation in marketing and leadership development. However, when I asked GPT about programs focusing on product management, product design and innovation, MMM emerged as the strongest fit. The program’s focus on human-centered design immediately resonated with me. It offered so much more than a traditional MBA — a space to explore creativity while still building on my business skills. 

Another compelling reason was the structure of MMM itself. The dual-degree format meant I could take all the mandatory MMM courses upfront and free up “bidding power” for electives at Kellogg, giving me unparalleled flexibility to tailor my experience.

Lastly, the cohort size sealed the deal. While I love the network I am building with the 650+ Kellogg students I have access to, the idea of a smaller group of 65 close community was very appealing for me - and I have to say the people I have meet here are the best part of this whole experience (the FaMMM is real!).

What is life like as a MMM student?

• Life as an MMM student is intense yet incredibly rewarding. Every day is packed with learning, collaboration, and moments of joy—whether it’s a thought-provoking conversation or a shared laugh in the MMM lounge.

  Here’s what a typical winter day looks like for me:

  • Morning: My day starts early with a walk around campus with my dog (who occasionally tries to chase squirrels and rabbits!). Afterward, I enjoy a quiet coffee at home while spending a few moments with my daughter as she wakes up.
  • Commute: Around 8 AM, I drive a few classmates who live in my building to campus. We use this time to exchange insights about classes we’re taking and share tips for upcoming coursework and interviews.
  • Midday: By noon, Gies Plaza is buzzing with energy. Whether it’s catching up with friends over lunch or attending a speaker session during class, there’s always something inspiring happening.
  • Afternoon: Between 1:30 PM and 3:30 PM, I carve out time for readings or prep work before heading into group meetings to plan our next presentation.
  • Evening: By 6 or 7 PM, I’m back home. If time allows, I’ll hit the gym or unwind with my wife and friends.

  Every day is dynamic—balancing academics, extracurriculars, and personal moments keeps me engaged and constantly learning.

What have you loved about your MMM experience? 

The people are undoubtedly the highlight of my MMM journey. My classmates are some of the most empathetic, curious, and creative individuals I’ve ever met. It’s an incredibly supportive environment where everyone genuinely wants to see each other succeed.

The program itself is designed to challenge you in ways that foster both personal growth and professional expertise. Many courses are hands-on—working with real clients on real problems developing real tangible solutions forces you to think differently and adapt quickly. This “learn by doing” approach has been transformative for me. It’s not always easy; there are plenty of mistakes along the way. But those struggles lead to some of the most valuable lessons.

Beyond academics, the shared experiences have been unforgettable—whether it’s brainstorming solutions in class or laughing together during social events. From meaningful conversations in small group dinners to spontaneous moments in the lounge, these connections have defined my time here and given me lifelong friendships.