McKenzie Martin, Northwestern Kellogg’s MBA Class of 2027
Age: 23
Hometown: Chicago, IL
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Loyola Marymount University (LA) | Health and Human Science major; Health & Society minor
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Pfizer, Strategy & Consulting Fellow (2 years of experience in the pharma industry)
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
As part of Pfizer’s Breakthrough Fellowship, I have the unique opportunity to pursue an MBA earlier in my career. With a background in healthcare, I wanted to push myself beyond science and deepen my understanding of business strategy, as these skills are critical to scaling solutions that improve healthcare outcomes and social determinants of health.
I saw business school as the best environment to strengthen my analytical and financial skills, while learning how to craft data-driven business cases and effectively influence stakeholders to become a well-rounded thought partner.
Why did you choose Northwestern Kellogg? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
When considering schools, my two top priorities were personality fit and experiential learning opportunities. Kellogg aligned perfectly with my values and truly embodies impact-focused work paired with low ego leadership. Every call I had with current students and alumni showed that Kellogg’s culture was a place where I could be surrounded by supportive people who are willing and want to help me in any way. Additionally, the collaborative environment allows me to feel comfortable challenging myself and to fail without judgment.
From the experiential learning standpoint, I wanted to maximize my time at Kellogg to explore as many industries as possible through in-semester internships and practicums. There are numerous opportunities to secure internships for class credit through programs like the VC lab. Additionally, there are practicums in every function/industry you can think of that all students can take advantage of to receive hands-on learning opportunities (i.e., Growth Strategy lab, Asset Management Practicum, Health System Management with Northwestern Medicine, Social Innovations Practicum, etc.).
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
I believe my most valuable contribution to Kellogg is my ability to foster a sense of community and intentionally curate events that bring diverse people together!
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I went skydiving for my 21st birthday 🙂
Post-MBA career interests:
As part of my sponsorship, I’m excited to return to Pfizer’s Strategy & Consulting department to continue strengthening my strategic depth. At the same time, I look forward to exploring my interest at the intersection of impact and strategy, with a particular focus on capital allocation for community development.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Talk to current students and alumni – find a resume twin and pick the Kellogg community’s brain on their career journey and application process. I found doing mock interviews with current students was the most helpful!
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
Take mental breaks! It can be a draining process, and you can avoid unnecessary stress by building confidence in your capabilities and background. Avoid comparing yourself – your story is yours to own and unique to you, so lean into who you are and write about what drives and motivates you!
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Hot take! Everything was a valuable experience, and while it may have been difficult and stressful, it was a necessary part of the journey that has informed my time at Kellogg now. I would reframe it to say that the most valuable parts included school visits, coffee chats with both students and alumni, and creating brand points that highlighted aspects of myself that were authentic to who I am. The introspection process of the MBA application has allowed me to be intentional about the decisions I make now.
I’d also say that finding community with other prospective students applying helps underscore that you aren’t alone and that there are thousands of people going through the same experience. My MLT community and other Pfizer fellows became a great support system to lean on throughout the journey!
What is your initial impression of the Kellogg students/culture/community?
First- and second-year students are willing and ready to help. The number of people providing advice and guidance and wanting to see us all win has been great. The community is designed to uplift everyone. We are all surrounded by intelligent people who want to do what it takes to get you into the role, experience, etc., you want to have.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
The school year just started, but I’m looking to get involved in the Black Management Association (BMA), Social Impact Club, Kellogg Eatz Club, and Entrepreneurship & Venture Capital Club. As I mentioned earlier, I want to delve deeper into my passion for social impact and understand how resource allocation can contribute to uplifting historically marginalized communities. As for Eatz Club, I’m a big foodie (and reformed picky eater), so I’m always excited to fellowship over food.
What is one thing you have learned about Kellogg that has surprised you?
Professors are very excited to meet students outside the classroom!
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Kellogg is an extremely social school, with multiple events every day, so there’s never a dull moment! I’m excited to get involved in the community and build relationships with my classmates through small group dinners, treks, and other activities.
