Veterans Navigating the MBA Experience

This special Veterans Day episode features two first-year Full-time MBA students: Nicholas Smith, a former U.S. Marine Corps infantry leader, and Joon Choi, who served in the Korean Army as a translator for the U.S. Army. They share their journey from military service to the corporate world, and ultimately to Scheller to pursue their MBA. Both reflect on how the shift from a command-driven environment in the military to a more collaborative one at Scheller has expanded their leadership styles. They discuss what leadership means to them, how their decision-making has evolved outside of uniform, and the new ways they’ve learned to lead. The conversation explores how their military backgrounds help them connect with classmates from diverse cultures and professional backgrounds, and how those same skills translate into teamwork and communication across industries. Choi and Smith also discuss how they will apply their values and leadership experiences to their post-MBA careers, encompassing adaptability, accountability, integrity, and service. To close, they offer thoughtful and encouraging advice to other military members considering an MBA. They reflect on navigating the transition, embracing new ways of learning, and leveraging their unique experiences to lead with impact beyond the military.