From Marine to MBA: One Stern Student’s Story

Michael Petit was serving in the US Marine Corp when he applied to The Stern School of Business via satellite phone in Afghanistan. Upon returning home in spring 2012 he quickly transitioned from deployed Marine to MBA.

“My time overseas was intense, jarring, perspective changing, maddening and inspiring,” Michael describes. “I encountered daily challenges which forced me to grow as an adult and as a leader. I applied my abilities in ways that were meaningful and had significant impact. There is nothing quite like being responsible for everything from distributing wheat germ and bringing in irrigation infrastructure to building new schools and opening health clinics and centers for female entrepreneurs, all while advising local government officials and operating in a dynamic and very dangerous environment. It was a great challenge; it was a great privilege.”

At Stern, Petit took his military background and applied his drive to a mission-related role in the Stern Military Veterans Club.

“My goals, and those of the club’s leadership, were to professionalize the club; expand our network and promote more interaction with other top-tier schools; improve our connection with Stern military veteran alumni; establish a mentoring pipeline for prospective students; and assign a mentor to every new veteran admit to help them adjust and transition.”

This veteran also played a supporting role in launching Stern Speaks, a new program that provides an opportunity for Stern MBA students to share life stories and experiences with their classmates.

“It provides the opportunity to learn more about each other’s pasts,” he explained, “and helps us to reflect on where we are on the path we set for ourselves, as well as strengthen the bonds of community and inclusiveness.”

Moving forward with new and exciting life and degree, Petit is now making his next transition to serving in the Investment Management Division of Goldman Sachs.

regions: New York City

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