Kara Thompson, Chicago Booth MBA Class of 2026
Age: 27
Hometown: Los Angeles, CA.
Undergraduate Institution and Major: UCLA, Economics
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Sr. Financial Analyst at Warner Bros. (3 years)
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
The JD/MBA program provided the perfect opportunity to capitalize on UChicago’s strength in law and economics. I liked that I could supplement the risk-flagging approach of law school education with the risk-managing approach of business school education.
With 3 years of work experience, I felt fresh enough as a student to tackle law school and informed enough about the finance world to take advantage of business school.
Why did you choose Chicago Booth? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
UChicago is the preeminent school for law and economics, it was my top choice for a dual degree program. The business school has a quantitative skew that appeals to my analytical side.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2026?
I bring a unique understanding to the intersection of business and law.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I have a passion for oil painting
Post-MBA career interests:
Crypto regulatory law, entertainment/media strategy and financing
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Target specific schools and tailor your applications for each. Consider taking the GRE!
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
Only apply to schools you would actually attend.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
The administrative workload was heavy – setting mall and consistent deadlines for myself helped the application process from taking over my life!
What is your initial impression of the Booth students/culture/community?
I have absolutely loved my experience at Booth so far. Take advantage of friendships with international students – this is a unique opportunity to widen your perspective and gain a mor global knowledge base.
What is one thing you have learned about Booth that has surprised you?
The international and military student population. The student body is more well-rounded and interesting than I could have expected.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Information overload and paralysis by analysis. I want to engage with everything, but that is not realistic! Honing my interests and being intentional with how I invest my time will be my greatest challenge.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Trips to Mexico City, Whistler, and Colombia. Also excited to engage with other students who are passionate about reforming the financial system and bring different perspectives to the table!
