Henry ‘Sam’ Choi, Kelley MBA Class of 2020
Age: 35
Hometown: Manhasset, N.Y.
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Wesleyan University, B.A. in History
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 10 years, United States Navy
Why business school? Why now?
I loved serving my country, but despite the unique experiences and excitement that a career in the armed forces offers, I grew tired of the constant deployments and yearned for a more stable lifestyle. Business school is the ideal setting for a transitioning veteran to bridge the gap and pivot into a new career as a business leader.
Why Kelley? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Having come from a team-oriented environment, I was looking for an intimate, collaborative culture that demonstrated a commitment to the same values that are important to me. A lot of business schools offer top-rate educations, but for me, Kelley’s real differentiators are its culture and community.
I visited many schools, but Kelley is the only place that ever felt like home. I had never before received so many hand-written notes from students and administrators alike offering words of encouragement or congratulations on earning admission to the school.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2020? -As a ‘seasoned’ candidate, I’ve been able to contribute right out of the gate, sharing my experiences leading teams, managing projects and solving challenges for the Navy.
As the Class of 2020’s very own ‘papa bear,’ I like to cook family-style meals for my classmates on Sunday night because, let’s be honest, nobody wants to eat instant noodles every day!
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
Sam Choi has been to every continent in the world besides Antarctica.
Post-MBA career interests?
Brand manager for a CPG.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
— One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
The best piece of advice I can give, is to look past the rankings and focus instead on identifying which school will best help you achieve your career objectives. I chose Kelley because of the strength of its Marketing Program and how well Kelley’s Consumer Marketing Academy prepares its students to perform during their summer internships.
— One thing you would change or do differently?
I recommend zeroing in on your intended industry and role right away. If you’re a career switcher like me, start your research now and then reach out to people working in these roles or at your target companies to gain insight on what it’s really like.
— Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Like many of you, I struggled with the GMAT. I took the test while on a year-long deployment in the Middle East. I’d recommend taking as many practice tests as you can stomach before you sit through the actual exam. It will help you work out your nerves and get used to the pacing required to be successful.
What is your initial impression of Kelley’s students/culture/community?
Last December, without knowing anything about the program here in Bloomington, I sent out an e-mail to five members of Kelley’s Veterans Club. Within two hours, I received responses from every one of them. Within days, I had conversations with most of them over the phone. This is the embodiment of what it’s like to be a part of the Kelley family.
One thing you have learned about s that has surprised you?
There’s a tradition here called the Kelley Clap. After every class, students and faculty alike applaud the exchange of ideas that’s taken place in the classroom. I thought it was a little weird at first, but I’ve since become a big fan of the tradition. I like to preempt my classmates by starting the clap slowly, like some scene out of the movie “Rudy”.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
The idea of ‘networking’ always caused me anxiety. A good piece of advice that I received, was just to be yourself and think of it as a series of conversations. Find commonality and build from there.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m excited about watching D1 college basketball, because we might actually be good this year. Go Hoosiers!
Clear Admit Resources
Check out some of our Kelley School of Business resources:
- IU / Kelley Profile on the Clear Admit website: up-to-date advice and admissions information
- Clear Admit LiveWire: admissions updates submitted in real time by applicants to Kelley
- Clear Admit DecisionWire: school selections in real-time by admits to Kelley
