Samuel Anderson

“I’m an intellectually driven professional thriving in high-pressure environments; a proven global leader, culturally aware, and adept at fostering relationships”

Hometown: Saint Cloud, MN

Fun Fact About Yourself: I married my MBA classmate (long before she was my classmate)

Undergraduate School and Major: United States Military Academy at West Point.  Major: Chinese Language

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: U.S Army Special Operation Forces Civil Affairs Team Leader

What has been your favorite part of the Twin Cities so far? What has made it such a great place to earn an MBA?

In my few moments of free time during the program, I’ve capitalized on the unique advantage of being just blocks away from the investment banking ecosystem in the Twin Cities. This proximity has allowed me to frequently meet with investment bankers, whether downtown or in their offices. These engagements have provided unparalleled insights and networking opportunities, forming a distinct experience only accessible from an MBA program strategically located within this vibrant financial hub.

Carlson MBA spend a year in hands-on Enterprise programs for Consulting, Branding, Ventures, and Funds. Which program do you intend to enroll in? What excites most about your Enterprise program?

I intend to enroll in the Funds Enterprise program. What excites me most about this program is the aspect of mentorship. I strongly advocate for mentorship, a concept I’ve carried over from my service in the U.S. Army. Being able to learn from industry professionals within a controlled environment aligns perfectly with my passion for continuous learning and growth. I am particularly enthusiastic about expanding my understanding of asset management while actively managing real investment funds, a hands-on experience that the Funds Enterprise offers.

Aside from your classmates, experiential learning, and location, what was the key part of the Carlson MBA programming that led you to choose this business school and why was it so important to you?

My wife and I, with a combined 14 years of service in the U.S. Army, often found ourselves stationed in different places due to assignments or deployments. Carlson offered us a unique platform to transition into the private sector while specifically recruiting into the Twin Cities employer base. This MBA program not only promised fulfilling professional growth but also catered to our personal lives, providing an environment where we could both thrive. Additionally, the Carlson School’s recognition as the nation’s #1 ranked military-friendly MBA program was crucial. Its robust resources and supportive community made it feasible for both of us to attend simultaneously, a rare and invaluable opportunity for our post-military pursuits.

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far:

My role as a Special Operations Civil Affairs Team Leader involved building human networks for the United States Government within El Salvador. Leveraging America’s soft power, I had the honor of spearheading the creation of a “Women’s Empowerment” network, a pioneering initiative that harnessed diversity, inclusion, and equity principles to counter real-life threat networks.

Describe your biggest accomplishment as an MBA student so far:

My biggest accomplishment as an MBA student has been securing my start in investment banking. The recruiting process in investment banking can feel daunting—I had over 75 coffee chats and took multiple flights to the East Coast to successfully navigate this journey. Eventually, I found an opportunity that resonated with me. I’m incredibly thrilled to kickstart my career as a summer associate at a middle-market investment bank right here in Minneapolis.

What has been your best memory as an MBA so far?

During my MBA, a standout moment came from learning the depth of the Carlson network. Over the summer, I introduced myself to a recent Carlson graduate working in investment banking services here in the Twin Cities. Despite his hectic schedule, he generously mentored me weekly, getting me prepped for investment banking interviews. His commitment mirrored the support he once received during his MBA, showing how strong the culture of support is at Carlson.

What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into the Carlson MBA program?

The MBA is an incredible opportunity for professional pivot, but it’s a high-pressure environment with quick timelines. My advice: extensively research your career objectives well in advance. Identify your career needs, network with key industry players, and establish a timeline to keep you on course. The initial semester of the program is pivotal, and if you’re still exploring career options, it’s easy to lag. Begin early and adopt a proactive approach to stay ahead.  (And know there are two classes of Carlson MBA’s more than happy to answer your early questions).