Veterans Day 2022: What It’s Like Being A Veteran At An Elite MBA Program

Lucas Cooper, Kellogg MBA Class of 2024

United States Marine Corps 1st Lieutenant

What does Veteran’s Day mean to you?

Veteran’s Day has always been an opportunity for me to reflect on the incredible sacrifices of the men and women who have served before me. I feel grateful to live in a nation that inspires so many to willingly risk their lives in its defense.

What has been the greatest challenge about the transition to civilian life? 

The built-in support system at Kellogg has made the transition to civilian life easy. Kellogg makes the relatively large class feel smaller through section events, affinity clubs, and small group dinners. This structure has made it easy to befriend the incredible people in this community. To be honest, the most challenging part of the transition has been managing my time in light of the many opportunities at Kellogg; I’ve had to learn how to say no and prioritize!

Why did you choose Kellogg?

I chose to attend Kellogg because I felt that it was the program that would best equip me to pursue a career in social impact. Specifically, I was drawn to Kellogg’s established social impact pathway, its famously collaborative culture, and its extensive menu of experiential classes such as Venture Capital Lab or Launching and Leading Startups with professor Carter Cast. Kellogg is also the best place for my family. My wife was part of Northwestern’s Class of 2018 and many of her best friends still live in Chicago. After spending our first three years of marriage in the Marine Corps, I looked forward to having the autonomy to choose a school that felt right for both of us.

What value does Kellogg’s Veteran Association provide to you and your fellow classmates? 

The Kellogg Veterans Association provides mentorship, professional support, and a strong community during the application process through graduation. My first interaction with the KVA was when members of the class of 2022 reviewed my essays prior to me submitting my application. KVA members were among the first students to welcome me to campus and have continued to be some of my closest friends.

How has Kellogg prepared you for your post-MBA career goals?

I came to business school to help create a greener and more equitable world through a career in early-stage impact investing. Kellogg’s unique course offerings, such as Venture Capital Lab, help me build the technical skills required to succeed in the industry. Beyond the academics, Kellogg has positioned me for success through access to a vibrant entrepreneurial community where I can learn from both alumni and my tremendously talented classmates. I look forward to continuing to explore the resources that Kellogg has to offer.

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