Brittany Gray, '26 MBA: Military Service Meets Business Degree
Friday, November 8, 2024
Program
’26 MBA
Military Service
U.S. Army
U.S. Army 1st Lieutenant Brittany Gray, ’26 MBA, balances active-duty military service with being a full-time student to achieve her career goals.
1st Lt. Gray currently serves as the company commander for the Minneapolis Recruiting Company. She shares how she intends to build upon her 15 years of military experience by pursuing a business degree at the Carlson School:
How has your military background helped you in the classroom as a business student?
Leadership, presence, discipline, relatability, and integrity are some things I pride myself on and characteristics I’d never keep to myself. I’ve managed to leverage and share these skills with a few of my team members, allowing us to communicate effectively amongst the team and excel in our group projects.
Being a logistics officer in the Army, I’ve gained the knowledge and tools to be successful in the military. The Carlson School equips me with the “walk and talk” I will need to compete successfully once I enter a different phase of life outside of the uniform.
What has been your most valuable Carlson School experience?
Learning that my classmates are genuinely invested in my experience at the Carlson School has been a great and memorable experience. I’ve been invited to lunches, dinners, tailgating, movies, and seasonal events. The friendships I’ve made are invaluable, providing me with a lasting impact well beyond the classroom.
The Carlson School equips me with the “walk and talk” I will need to compete successfully once I enter a different phase of life outside of the uniform.
What is your advice for veterans or service members who are considering business school?
If I can do it as an active-duty company commander, so can you. Don’t think about it too hard. The faculty and staff are invested in you and your success in this program. Working with them is one of the best experiences I’ve had attaining a degree as a veteran. The professors are very understanding and accommodating. Additionally, the Military and Veterans’ Club is amazing and very informative. There is undeniably cohesiveness amongst the veterans at the Carlson School.
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