Chandler King, Dartmouth Tuck MBA Class of 2027
Age: 30
Hometown: Everywhere! My parents were in the military
Undergraduate Institution and Major: United States Naval Academy, Bachelor of Science in English
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Navy Special Operations, United States Navy, 8 years
Why did you decide to attend business school? Why now?
While serving in Navy Special Operations Explosive Ordnance Disposal, I had the privilege of working with exceptional people to solve complex problems. As I considered whether to remain on active duty, I spoke with mentors, friends, and family and realized I wanted to continue having a meaningful impact while challenging myself in new ways. To translate the leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills I gained in the Navy to the private sector, I knew I needed a business education. Business school offers the ideal environment to broaden my perspective and continue learning from a diverse group of driven peers.
Why did you choose Dartmouth Tuck? What factors figured most prominently into your decision?
Throughout Admitted Students Weekend, I immediately felt the strength of Tuck’s community. From the energy of that weekend, where the entire Tuck student body showed up to celebrate classmates’ incredible talents, to seeing how Tuck supports students through career pivots, it was clear that Tuck lives its mission of developing “wise, decisive leaders.”
A big part of the Tuck experience is the Upper Valley. Every weekend, classmates build relationships outdoors—whether climbing Mt. Washington with a new friend I met in class, paddleboarding on the Connecticut River with a study group member, or planning ski trips as close as Vermont and as far away as Japan. I wanted a close-knit community where collaboration is a core value, and everyone pulls together toward a common goal. While other schools are excellent, Tuck’s culture of support and emphasis on community made it the obvious choice. From my first day of orientation this summer, that decision has felt exactly right.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
I believe my experience leading teams through crisis situations has given me a unique perspective on prioritizing and solving problems while taking care of teammates. I hope to translate some of these experiences to my class, but I am really just stoked to learn from my classmates. There are so many incredibly talented people who teach me new things every day.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application: I short-track speed skated on ice growing up—though it hasn’t made me any better at tripod hockey.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I’m glad I reached out to so many current students at different schools. It might feel daunting to cold email or message a current student at your dream school, but students were always excited to talk. Those candid conversations gave me the best understanding of where I’d fit as an MBA candidate.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
If possible, visit schools before starting the application process. The in-person experience is worth its weight in gold, and I could have narrowed down my applications much sooner. Usually, you know within minutes whether a school is the right fit.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I would stress less in general about the applications. I know that’s unusual advice, but ultimately, if you put your true self on paper and trust the work you put into standardized test prep, you’ll end up at the right place.
What is your initial impression of Dartmouth Tuck’s students/culture/community?
My initial impression is that I was correct about why I wanted to come here. Everyone is amazingly down to earth and so willing to help each other while also challenging one another to be the best versions of themselves.
What student organizations have you joined or hope to join, and why?
Tuck Vets Club, Revers Center for Energy, Sustainability, and Innovation, Tripod Hockey, Tuck Outdoor Club, Ski and Snowboard Club, Follies, and more!
What is one thing you have learned about Dartmouth Tuck that has surprised you?
I’m amazed at how many alumni reach out to me every day. I talk to recent graduates who are incredibly helpful (shoutout to Will Burroughs and Andrew Ruvkun), and I’ve also had graduates from the class of 1995 reach out simply because they heard we had a connection. It’s amazing to witness the strength of this community in action.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m most excited to go skiing with classmates—and to enjoy Band Party!
