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Kelley School of Business Indiana University Bloomington
Full-time MBA Program

Late-cycle MBA applicants find support, success in quick transition to Kelley Full-Time MBA Program

Posted on by Kelley School

By Jim Holmen | Director of Admissions and Financial Aid

By Gale Nichols | Executive Director of the Kelley Full-Time MBA

You may think applying for an MBA program requires a lengthy lead time, but for many people, that’s not the case. Because of our responsive and supportive culture in the Kelley School of Business Full-Time MBA Program, we see late-cycle applicants achieve great success.  

In fact, we’re still accepting applications and merit-based financial aid is still available (more than 90% of our students typically receive this). If you applied late in our cycle or thought it was too late to apply, continue reading to see how it’s possible to begin your MBA career path in August as a Kelley MBA. 

How often do students transition this quickly, applying in April or later and beginning your program in the fall? 

It’s not uncommon for students who apply late in our cycle to matriculate and thrive—even students leaving non-business careers. Alyssa Poticha, for instance, is graduating with her Kelley MBA in May and will join Deloitte in Denver as a consultant. She applied to our program late in the admission cycle and has been extremely successful academically as she pivots her career from teaching choir and show choir to middle and high school students (watch her video). Other later-in-cycle applicants have moved from careers in entertainment, data management and research, finance and accounting, arts management, and engineering into careers in brand management, consulting, financial planning and analysis, and more.

What enables them to transition quickly at Kelley? 

Because of our responsive and supportive culture, candidates can move from applying to onboarding as a student in a matter of a few weeks. If a candidate is considering applying this time of year, we respond quickly to answer questions and schedule time to talk if needed. We also can make admission decisions more rapidly because fewer applications are in the pipeline. Once admitted, these students hear from our faculty, current students, and alumni who share information about our Academies, MBA career paths, and the Kelley experience. Our student services and career services teams work throughout the summer and help students with everything from finding housing to updating resumes for networking sessions.   (more…)

Filed under: MBA

Q&A: Is a major career change or pivot possible with the Kelley Full-Time MBA (and can I start this fall)?

Posted on by Kelley School

 

By Gale Nichols | Executive Director of the Kelley Full-Time MBA 

Are you ready for a new career? Do you need a new career because of industry upheavals? A high-quality MBA program like ours is one of the quickest ways to prepare for new and better-paying opportunities in the business world—regardless of your current career. 

This Q&A covers concerns we hear from prospective students who wonder if they have what it takes to succeed in business—or in a top-20 MBA program like ours. If you think we’re a good fit, consider applying—we’re accepting applications for fall. 

Is it really possible to start a new—and successful—career in business? Can you share some examples of students who made career pivots from non-business backgrounds?  

Yes! We have had many students who entered the MBA program without having worked in business. Some of these students were teachers, musicians, and arts management professionals. Others worked in non-profit fundraising, R&D, the medical professions, engineering, and computer science. Students like these have sometimes pivoted into an industry related to their prior work—for instance, a physical therapist who moved into business development for a medical devices company. Others have transitioned into completely new areas—for instance, professional musicians who launched careers in investment banking, or teachers who became consultants. 

Do students who have little or no business background get left behind in the program? 

The diversity of students’ backgrounds is a strength of the program because they bring such a wide range of skills and experiences and learn from each other. Students who don’t have prior business experience often bring other skills that are very valuable: for instance, skills in project management, negotiation, relationship-building, teamwork, or research. In the first semester of the program, students are assigned to a Core team that by design includes students with different backgrounds. This enables the team members to support each other and benefit from others’ knowledge.   

I have been working in business, but I’m ready for a change—new challenges, more impact, and responsibility. How can the Kelley MBA help me achieve this?  

Your MBA Academy and coursework will give you a chance to “skill up” and propel your business career forward—whether you stay in the same functional area that you were in pre-Kelley or move into a new one. You’ll have the opportunity to explore a new area—whether it’s consulting, finance, marketing, or operations—through your Academy, and your coursework will give you broader business skills. Experiences like GLOBASE will help you strengthen your understanding of global business. Participation in clubs and class projects will build your teamwork and leadership skills. All of this will prepare you for more challenging and impactful roles post-MBA.  (more…)

Filed under: MBA

The military veteran experience at Kelley

Posted on by Kelley School

By Nick Hagen | MBA Candidate Class of 2025

I came to the Kelley full-time MBA program after serving for twelve years as a US Army Special Forces Officer. My professional journey up to that point was defined by discipline, expertise in my field, and teamwork. As I prepared for my military transition, I knew I needed an MBA program that was invested in my growth and development, exposing me to the relevant challenges facing business leaders today, in a collaborative and supportive team environment. Coming to Kelley, I found the perfect combination of all those things.

The Kelley MBA offered me a customized experience that aligned perfectly with my career goals. From day one, I felt supported by faculty, staff, and fellow students. Kelley’s focus on individual development allowed me to explore my career aspirations, merging my experience in leadership and military operations with my desire to have a purposeful impact in the world of business.

Critical to that transition was Me, Inc. This intensive development program before the start of class helped me understand my strengths, values, and aspirations. Through self-reflection and team-building activities, I gained clarity on my career direction, allowing me to reflect on my best self as I interviewed for summer internship opportunities. Because of this, I received my summer internship with Direct Supply as a Business Strategy Development Intern. I chose Direct Supply because of the work they do at the forefront of technology and senior care, and because the culture of their team is a continuation of the purpose, teamwork, and dedication to excellence I found in the military.

I have been able to put all that preparation into action as I work on my spring project with the Supply Chain and Digital Enterprise Academy. In cooperation with other schools & disciplines across IU, we’ve been working with food pantries across greater Indianapolis to help increase efficiency and effectiveness in distributing food to households in need. In this way, IU has helped me stay intimately close to my passion of serving others and prepare for my summer internship and career beyond my MBA studies.

All these experiences and dedicated efforts exist in an environment rich with personal and professional support from faculty, staff, and peers. The diverse backgrounds of those around me enriched my learning experience. Coming from the military, I initially felt like I could be an outsider. But almost immediately, my peers made me feel like a vital member of the team and I could see the value of my own experience in building towards success.

A Kelley MBA: A sound business decision for your career and future

Posted on by Kelley School

Mitch Horne, MBA’ 2025

By Mitch Horne, MBA’ 2025 | Merit Fellow

Before Kelley, I was an advertising professional servicing a Medicare client. I loved being a part of the brand story, but I wanted to write it, not have it dictated to me. I knew that the Kelley full-time MBA program would help develop me as a leader and enable me to reach my career goals. So, I moved my wife and two kids from Utah to Bloomington, and we’ve loved it.

As a Kelley MBA, I’m a member of various communities. To me, the one that has been the most impactful for my career is the Consumer Marketing Academy. The curriculum has been great in enabling me to gain hard skills, and the Academy has fittingly complemented those with a networking perspective. Both the industry and practical knowledge I’ve gained directly from Marketing professionals have been invaluable. “Academy Week,” a week spent on the road visiting reputable companies like P&G, Kellanova, Wendy’s, GE Appliances, and ConAgra Brands, was a big turning point in my career search because I was able to get my boots on the property of potential employees, experiencing firsthand and feeling out how I could potentially fit there. Kelley, in this way and many others, has helped me discover my talents and how they would fuse with my target career.

Nothing will open your mind like traveling and experiencing a foreign culture. GLOBASE is a special opportunity for Kelley MBA students to expand their perception as future business leaders. Visiting Buenos Aires, Argentina—my first time in South America—was a dream I didn’t know I had come true. Within my four-person team, professors and classmates joined forces to discover and meet the needs of a family business. Not only did I learn important skills and aspects of a winning business consultation, I fell in love with the people I vigorously worked with and served. Not to mention, experiencing the culture during available leisure time was unforgettable: meeting gauchos, trying the local cuisine, and absorbing history.

Choosing a full-time MBA program is a big decision. The Kelley MBA prepares you for a new business career like no one else can. Learn more about how Kelley’s proven return on investment will enable you to reach your career goals today. Visit Us

 

Fall in Love with Bloomington!

Posted on by Kelley School

By Rita Agyei, MBA’24

When I decided to pursue my MBA, I had no idea that the town of Bloomington would be a place I would come to love. Within the first weeks of my arrival in Bloomington, I wondered what to do, when I wasn’t in class, so I decided to take daily walks to get familiar with my surroundings, and oh what beauty! Green lawns, well-paved roads, general calmness and tranquility. I knew I would love it; it has proven to be so much more. Here are some of my favorite things to do in Bloomington.

1. Go for a Walk!
Apart from my 10,000-step goal in line with the World Health Organization’s recommendation, the outdoors and landscape of Bloomington is my greatest motivation. Whether it is a walk on the B-line trail, a walk from my apartment to Aldi, or just checking out the stadiums and facilities at Indiana University, I am bound to have an encounter with nature (the squirrels and flowers are the real bonus)!

2. Learn a new sport at the IU Recreation Center
On my personal to-do list is to pick up a new sport. While my friends convinced me to learn pickleball, I was drawn to badminton. I will describe myself as a mid-rate tennis player so, badminton proved to be an equally competitive sport which came with relative ease. I also found a great badminton community that made it easier to find time to play despite my busy schedule.

3. Go for a hike.
If you love to hike, there are many trails in Bloomington. The Kelley Outdoors Club is a resource that helped me discover more hiking trails. My personal tip is that hiking trips are best done with friends (morning hikes are also a personal favorite).

4. Explore the Wine Scene!
If you are a wine lover, then Oliver Winery is only a few minutes from town. I am in love with their Cherry Moscato, which is literally to die for. If you are not a cherry Moscato fan, there is a great range of wines for you to choose from. You can schedule a wine tasting and learn more about the wine-making process and added benefits. It has the scenery for a perfect picnic with Instagram-worthy photos!

Bloomington has so much to offer… from musicals to opera shows, from candle making to pottery lessons—no matter what diverse cuisine—you can find it all here within the greater IU community.

The best way to fall in love with Bloomington is to roll up your sleeves and dive right in!

 

A Journey of Growth and Inspiration

Posted on by Kelley School

By Karan Sharma, MBA’24

As a first-generation graduate student, my transition from nine years in engineering to the dynamic world of business school in the Kelley full-time MBA program was a deeply emotional and personal journey.

I’ll be sharing my 3 takeaways, from embracing diversity to evolving into a dedicated servant-leader and discovering the immense impact of giving back. These experiences and insights have the potential to inspire and empower anyone on their unique path of growth and transformation.

Takeaway #1: Make mistakes fast and foster diversity.

After nine years as an engineer, I embarked on a new adventure in business school. The goal: pitch a business idea to a MAANG company with a diverse global team: Vy from Vietnam, Doyin from Nigeria, and Graham and Sam from the United States. Our initial case competition attempt was a reality check, we received average feedback despite our confidence.

Rather than be discouraged, we used the setback to learn and grow, guided by principles we learned from Kelley’s Me, Inc. program. We nurtured an inclusive environment where every voice mattered, strengthening our bonds and teamwork. Considered underdogs in the MBA capstone case competition, we emerged as winners by believing in each other, demonstrating the power of learning, and embracing diversity.

I’m grateful to my teammates for their unwavering support and teaching me the significance of teamwork and diversity.

Takeaway #2: From Self-Doubt to Servant Leader!

As a first-generation graduate student, America felt overwhelming, and imposter syndrome crept in. Doubts about leaving my job for an MBA haunted me initially. However, I sought support from my parents, talked to Kelley alumni and seniors, and reflected honestly.

I reminded myself that my main competition was myself and focused on personal growth.

My MBA purpose is to be a voice for the voiceless, not just a manager. This led to me becoming President of the Kelley Tech Club with support from my team (Rod, Dammy, Deepti, Pawan, and Priya).

Together, we organized events and supported our peers. I learned to believe in myself, embrace my strengths, and serve others.

Takeaway #3: Embrace the legacy of giving back.

Kelley MBA’s motto, “Go from moment to momentum,” deeply resonates with me. It’s an ongoing journey of growth and contribution.

Kelley’s alumni embody this mantra. Despite busy lives, Kelleys continue to support and guide current students, regardless of their industry—Amazon, Microsoft, Lilly, Tesla, Uber, etc. They’re always ready to share insights and expertise.

For this reason, I became a Hoosier Host, sharing my journey and offering guidance to prospective students, from sharing my Kelley experience to mock interviews.

I draw my inspiration from the selfless alumni who played a pivotal role in enriching my MBA journey. It’s a reminder that each of us holds the power to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others. Even the tiniest acts of kindness can ripple into significant change.

So, let’s nurture the spirit of giving back and encourage one another to transition from “moment to momentum” in our unique journeys!

My First-Year MBA Journey: Bridging Classroom Knowledge with Real-World Experience

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By Victor Calderon, MBA’24

My decision to pursue an MBA at Kelley was driven by the school’s outstanding reputation for fostering business leaders and its robust marketing curriculum. From day one, I was immersed in a vibrant and collaborative learning environment where diverse perspectives and innovative thinking were celebrated. The insightful discussions in classes, engaging projects, and guidance from renowned professors have not only expanded my knowledge but also honed my critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

As I reflect upon my journey as a first-year MBA student at the Kelley School of Business, specializing in marketing, I am thrilled to recount the invaluable experiences and growth that have defined this chapter of my academic and professional life. From delving into intricate courses like Business Marketing Strategy, Digital Marketing, and Market-Based Analysis to applying my newfound knowledge as a global marketer during my summer internship at ECOLAB, my time at Kelley has been nothing short of exhilarating and enlightening.

The foundation of my journey was laid in the classrooms of Kelley, where I encountered an engaging blend of theoretical insights and practical applications. However, the true essence of my MBA journey blossomed during my summer internship at ECOLAB, where I assumed the role of a global marketer. As I transitioned from lecture halls to corporate corridors, the nexus between classroom theory and real-world application became strikingly evident. Armed with the insights from Kelley’s courses, I embarked on devising global marketing initiatives that transcended borders and resonated with diverse audiences. The relationship between my academic learnings and the practical challenges I encountered during my internship was truly enlightening.

My internship illuminated the importance of collaboration and effective communication. The interpersonal skills cultivated at Kelley proved to be instrumental in collaborating with cross-functional teams, seamlessly bridging gaps, and ensuring that our marketing endeavors aligned with broader company objectives. As I navigated the global landscape of ECOLAB, I realized that the ethos of Kelley’s collaborative learning environment was echoing in the corporate world, further reaffirming the relevance of my MBA education.

As I step into my second year at Kelley, I carry with me a sense of gratitude for the experiences that have molded me into a more confident and knowledgeable professional. The lessons learned, friendships forged, and networks established will undoubtedly impact my future endeavors in the business world.

Equally, I am enthusiastic about paying it forward. The guidance and support I received as an incoming student were instrumental in shaping my positive experience at Kelley. I am committed to assisting incoming students in their transition, ensuring they feel welcomed and empowered from day one.

How My First Year At The Kelley MBA Enhanced My Summer Internship Experience

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By Nupur Sampat, MBA’24

As I embarked on my summer internship at a prominent consulting firm, I knew the value of an MBA from the Kelley School of Business would be the guiding light in my professional journey. The unique opportunities offered by Kelley’s academies, core teams, and communications classes have significantly contributed to my growth as a consultant.

At Kelley, the academies fostered a collaborative and innovative environment, honing my problem-solving abilities and providing real-world experiences. Working alongside like-minded peers from diverse backgrounds in cross-functional core teams was an invaluable experience that emulated the dynamics of the consulting industry. These academies enabled me to master the art of tackling complex challenges with a strategic mindset, paving the way for my success in the consulting realm.

The core teams at Kelley further enriched my internship journey. By leveraging the knowledge gained from core classes, I was equipped with a solid foundation in areas such as finance, marketing, and operations. This comprehensive understanding allowed me to approach client projects from a holistic perspective, delivering solutions that were not only effective but also well-rounded. (more…)

Transforming Dreams into Reality

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By Tosin Bowale, MBA’24

On May 15, 2023, a new chapter began in my life as I stepped into the role of a Product Marketing Manager (PMM) intern at Microsoft. This day was particularly significant, as it brought back vivid memories of my first visit to Microsoft’s Chicago office during the Business Marketing Academy (BMA) Week in October 2022. As I stood in front of the iconic Microsoft logo, I couldn’t help but imagine what it would be like to be a part of this remarkable company. And now, that dream has manifested into a reality, I decided to recreate my look from the visit to the Chicago office on my first day at work.

Here are experiences that transformed my dream into reality:

Unleashing My Potential with Me, Inc.: Kelley’s unique Me, Inc. program played a pivotal role in shaping my internship journey. It was like having a treasure map that guided me toward the companies that were a perfect match for my professional growth. It provided me with a deep understanding of my strengths, skills, and career aspirations, guiding me toward identifying roles that perfectly aligned with my passion and professional growth.

Mastering Mock Battles: With a dose of Me, Inc., I already knew that my journey would be filled with exceptional resources and unwavering support that would shape my destiny. Armed with determination and a dash of nervous excitement, I entered the realm of mock interviews. They were like battles against imaginary dragons, where Kelley’s Graduate Career Services armed me with the finest weapons of skills and confidence. I also got support from my fellow students. For instance, Cedric and Jennifer were always there to help me with mock interviews, and with each encounter, I grew stronger and more prepared to conquer any challenge that came my way.

Encounter with a Supercharged and Engaged Community: Juggling being an international student, a parent, and living in the USA posed its own challenges, especially when it came to finding affordable childcare. However, the Kelley African Business Club and the African Community (inclusive of my Nigerian friends) became unwavering sources of inspiration and succor throughout my MBA journey. This network gave me a strong sense of community, mentorship, and support. For example, when I faced an emergency childcare situation, Chuk’s wife graciously stepped in, allowing me to attend a BMA Academy Friday, where we had incredible guest speakers, including a Kelley Alum who works at Microsoft. During my final interview with Microsoft, Abdula’s wife cared for my children, ensuring I had a smooth and uninterrupted interview.

In this grand tale of my internship journey, my husband played a crucial role, providing the love, encouragement, and support that made all the difference. As I embark on this internship, I am filled with gratitude and excitement, ready to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead.

 

From India to Indiana: Reflecting on my first year as an MBA

Posted on by Kelley School

By Harsh Singh, MBA’24

As I eagerly anticipate my upcoming internship this summer in the bustling Big Apple, I can’t help but look back on the incredible whirlwind that was my first year as an MBA student. Today, I proudly refer to myself as a second-year MBA student at the prestigious Kelley School of Business. However, just a year ago, I found myself bidding farewell to my employer, a salad bowl of emotions swirling within me. The decision to take this leap of faith—leaving behind my country and my family and immersing myself in a foreign land for a truly global experience—both thrilled and frightened me in equal measure.

In July of 2022, I embarked on an extraordinary journey that spanned three flights and lasted a grueling 32 hours. It transported me from the hurried streets of Mumbai to the serene and picturesque town of Bloomington, nestled in the heart of Indiana. The constant symphony of traffic and street noises were replaced by the soothing chorus of birds chirping every morning, accompanied by a profound silence that enveloped the surroundings. I transitioned from a life devoid of public transport to complete reliance on the town’s bus service as I adjusted to the quaint pace of my new environment. (more…)

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