Meredith Griffin

Northwestern University, Kellogg School of Management, Pritzker School of Law

“New Englander heading (mid) west.”

Hometown: North Reading, MA

Fun Fact about Yourself: I have a twin sister (who is 40 minutes older than me) and another sister (who is just a year younger).

Undergraduate School and Major: Colby College, Bachelor of Arts in Government + History

Most Recently Employer and Job Title: Case Manager, Aleta Law

Aside from your classmates and location, what was the key part of Northwestern Kellogg’s MBA curriculum or programming that led you to choose this business school and why was it so important to you? The Kellogg JD-MBA program was my top choice. Unlike many other JD-MBA programs, Kellogg’s unique three-year structure enables students to earn both degrees simultaneously. This program design allows for a dedicated first year at Pritzker School of Law, followed by an immersive second year at Kellogg, and a final year that integrates both disciplines. For me, the opportunity to fully immerse myself in each curriculum and community without compromise was highly appealing.

What makes Chicago such a great place to earn an MBA? Choosing to leave the small city (Portland, ME), where I’ve worked since completing undergrad. was a difficult choice made easier by the fact that Chicago is a beautiful, clean, and international city. As an avid runner and cyclist, I’m most excited to spend mornings along Lake Michigan!

Kellogg is known for a team-driven culture. What quality do you bring as a teammate and why will it be so important to the success of MBA class? Curiosity! I am a naturally curious person—sometimes to the chagrin of my loved ones—and love to know the who, what, when, where, and why of everything. In the context of a team-driven environment at Kellogg, this curiosity translates into a willingness to question the status quo, actively listen, and view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than setbacks. I hope that my inquisitive nature, combined with my non-traditional background, will not only help me connect with and learn from my peers but also inspire them to approach problems from fresh perspectives.

What course, club or activity excites you the most at Northwestern Kellogg? I am particularly excited about the Sports Business Club at Kellogg. The club’s extensive network with a wide range of sports teams and organizations across the country presents a fantastic opportunity for engagement. As someone passionate about advancing women’s sports, I am eager to contribute to the club’s efforts in expanding its connections and influence.

What has been your first impression of the Kellogg MBA students and alumni you’ve met so far. Tell us your best Kellogg story so far. Humble and kind. Every interaction has left a lasting impression, showcasing a sincere willingness to help and support each other. Throughout my conversations, I’ve simply had a gut feeling that Kellogg is where I belong, where I will be valued, and where I will bring value.

One example of this community spirit occurred during the application process when the P@K team offered mock interviews to prospective students—regardless of whether they would ultimately join Kellogg. This generous gesture highlighted the Kellogg community’s commitment to supporting one another, which resonates deeply with my own values. It’s this sense of camaraderie and dedication that makes me eager to be part of this exceptional community.

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far:  I consider my time at Aleta to be a significant milestone in my career for several reasons. First, the work I engaged in was not only unique and intellectually stimulating but also profoundly human. Second, I had the privilege of working alongside some of the brightest, kindest, and most dedicated individuals I’ve ever met. Lastly, I was entrusted with handling some of the most complex and sensitive cases, which speaks to the level of trust and responsibility placed in me. The real achievement, in my view, is the growth and expertise I gained through these experiences and the deep confidence my colleagues placed in me.

Looking ahead two years, what would make your MBA experience successful? I’m looking ahead three years here, but I aim to leave Kellogg leaving no stone unturned. For me, that means saying yes to every opportunity, challenging myself to get out of my comfort zone both academically and socially, and making an impact on this community whether through collaborative projects, leadership roles, or impactful initiatives.

What other MBA programs did you apply to? Chicago Booth, Duke Fuqua, NYU Stern

What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into Northwestern Kellogg’s MBA program? My best advice for potential applicants is to be your authentic self throughout the application process. As a nontraditional business school candidate, I was initially anxious about how my perspectives, experiences, and stories would be perceived by the admissions committee. However, I soon realized that Kellogg values a holistic approach, focusing on the “whole person” rather than just traditional metrics. Embrace and share your genuine experiences and insights; demonstrate how your unique background and personal journey contribute to your potential as a future leader. By being true to yourself and showcasing the depth and breadth of your individuality, you’ll be able to convey a compelling and authentic narrative that resonates with Kellogg’s commitment to diversity and holistic evaluation.

DON’T MISS: MEET NORTHWESTERN KELLOGG’S MBA CLASS OF 2026