Alex Miller, Chicago Booth MBA Class of 2027
Age: 27
Hometown: Houston, Texas
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Undergraduate Institution – Northwestern University; Major – Learning & Organizational Change
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Role – Consultant; Industry – Consulting; Company – Deloitte Consulting; Duration – 4 years 2 months; Role – Sales Development Rep; Industry – Fintech; Company – YCharts; Duration – 6 months; Role – Professional Athlete / Undrafted Free Agent; Industry – Pro Sports; Company – Cavignac Sports Group / National Football League; Duration – 1 Year
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I decided to attend business school to pivot into financial services and build the foundation of financial skills needed to succeed in the industry.
Why did you choose Chicago Booth? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose Chicago Booth for two main reasons: the culture and the people. Booth’s reputation and legacy of producing some of the most influential financial minds of the last 50 years made it an ideal place to strengthen my foundation in finance. Equally important, the people I’ve met here have made my experience truly special. Booth fosters one of the most collaborative and collegial environments I’ve encountered. Everyone genuinely wants to see each other succeed, both professionally and personally.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
I bring an international and multicultural perspective to the Class of 2027. As a Bhutanese-American who spent nine years living abroad, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for diverse perspectives and cultures. I also draw on my background as a Division I and professional football player, which taught me resilience, teamwork, and leadership under pressure. These are the qualities I now apply in collaborative, high-performance environments like Chicago Booth.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
A fun fact about me is that I had the honor of meeting His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck of Bhutan when I was in high school. It was a moment that deepened my appreciation for my Bhutanese heritage and values.
Post-MBA career interests:
Financial Services
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I would absolutely take the time to connect with current MBA students again. Speaking with them helped me understand the culture and day-to-day environment of each MBA program beyond what I could learn online. They’re the people who may become your future classmates, and their insights are invaluable in determining whether a school is the right personal and professional fit.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
If I could do one thing differently, I’d stress less about the future and focus more on enjoying the process. It’s easier said than done, but looking back, I realize the MBA application journey is also a privilege and an opportunity that not many people get the chance to experience.
What is your initial impression of the Chicago Booth students/culture/community?
My initial impression of the Chicago Booth community is that it’s fun, collaborative, intellectual, and humble. Booth students take their work seriously but don’t take themselves too seriously. They’re curious, supportive, and genuinely invested in helping one another succeed.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
I’m planning to join clubs related to the financial services industry to help prepare for my career transition. These organizations will allow me to build technical and industry knowledge, connect with like-minded peers, and learn from second-year students who have successfully navigated the recruiting process.
What is one thing you have learned about Chicago Booth that has surprised you?
One thing that surprised me about Chicago Booth is how real the collaborative culture is. The supportive environment I’d heard about was not just business school marketing, it truly does exist. Both first- and second-year students have been incredibly generous with their time and advice, especially when it comes to recruiting and academics.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m most excited to keep meeting and getting to know my classmates. Booth attracts such a diverse and accomplished group of people, and I’m looking forward to learning from their experiences inside and outside the classroom.
