Logan Grayson, '23 BSB, ’25 MBA: Elevating Ideas into Real-World Impact
Tuesday, May 6, 2025
Program
'23 BSB
'25 MBA
Fun Fact:
I am the head coach for one of the nation’s largest freeski teams.
Undergraduate School and Major:
University of Minnesota, Entrepreneurial Management and Strategy
Current Job Title and Employer
Discovery Capital Investment Associate, UMN Office of Technology Commercialization
Public Affairs Officer, 148th Fighter Wing
DePodesta Fellow, UMN & ECMC Group
Meet the Carlson School community and learn about the experiences and career connections we offer.
What was your initial reason or motivation for pursuing a Full-Time MBA?
I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit and knew that continuing my education was key to turning ideas into impact. A Full-Time MBA felt like the perfect launchpad, with the opportunities available and instant access to a new network of mentors and peers. I jumped in to level up my skills, forge lasting connections, and fuel my ventures with fresh ideas and support.
Why did you choose the Carlson School?
Coming to the Carlson School, I knew I wanted to deepen my business and leadership skills. The school’s collaborative culture, experiential learning opportunities, and strong Twin Cities network provided the perfect environment for growth. That combination, along with significant financial support, convinced me to commit to a Full-Time MBA at the Carlson School, and it has been a great experience.
What has been or was your most valuable Carlson School experience or lesson?
The most valuable part of my Carlson School experience has been the experiential learning opportunities, applying concepts in real-world settings through projects like the Carlson Ventures Enterprise and working with early-stage start-ups. It’s one thing to study frameworks in class, but another to navigate ambiguity and build something alongside a team. These hands-on projects pushed me to grow as a leader and problem solver, while the close-knit community of peers and faculty offered support and new perspectives along the way. The combination of action and reflection has been invaluable.
The hands-on experience and support from peers and mentors helped me build the skills and confidence to chase those opportunities. I’m walking away feeling ready to take that next step, wherever it leads, and know I can make an impact.
How has your experience at the Carlson School of Management shaped your career goals and prepared you for your next steps after graduation?
The Carlson School of Management really opened my eyes to how many different opportunities are out there across all kinds of industries. I came in with an entrepreneurial mindset, but through projects, internships, and working with start-ups in various industries, including healthcare and consumer goods, I realized how many directions I could take that mindset. The hands-on experience and support from peers and mentors helped me build the skills and confidence to chase those opportunities. I’m walking away feeling ready to take that next step, wherever it leads, and know I can make an impact.
What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into Carlson’s Full-Time MBA program?
Be yourself and lean into your story; that’s the value you’ll bring to the Carlson School. Everyone comes in with a different background, experience, and goal, and these differences are what make the program special. Don’t worry about fitting a mold. Instead, focus on what makes your journey unique and how you’ve grown from it. Learn to share that openly and honestly. The school wants to understand not just what you’ve done, but who you are and what drives you. That’s what will set you apart and help you find your place here.
