Military to MBA: Transition to civilian business with Kelley

As a Kelley MBA and veteran, you will benefit from military peers, advocates, and resources at Kelley and Indiana University as you build your business career and transition to civilian life. You’ll have a certified career coach and peer coach, develop mentors, and become part of a diverse and supportive community that welcomes your contributions.

You'll also have the flexibility to complete your second year online—enabling you to launch your career early, return to family, or live wherever you choose.

We’re here for you before you even step onto campus.

Nick Hagen, MBA’25

President, Kelley MBA Veterans Club

Prior to starting at Kelley, Nick Hagen was a US Army Special Forces officer for 12 years. He has several combat deployments in support of Operation Inherent Resolve and Operation Enduring Freedom in various direct leadership roles. After his final role as a tactical officer at the United States Military Academy, Nick moved to Bloomington with his wife and daughter. Nick is a member of the Business Operations & Innovation Academy and is double majoring in Business Analytics and Supply Chain and Operations. For his internship, Nick joined Direct Supply as part of its Strategy Development Leadership Program in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Nick McClain, MBA’25

Vice President, Kelley MBA Veterans Club

Prior to enrolling in Kelley’s Full-Time MBA Program, Nick served in the US Army as a Special Forces NCO with 3rd Special Forces Group at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and completed multiple deployments to the Middle East and Africa. Nick decided to exit the military to pursue a career in consulting, leading to his enrollment at Indiana’s Kelley School of Business Full-Time MBA Program. Nick is a member of the Consulting Academy and completed his summer Internship with Deloitte Consulting in Chicago as a summer associate, and he plans to return upon graduation.

James Olk, MBA’25

Vice President, Kelley MBA Veterans Club

Before beginning his MBA, James served as a US Army Armor officer for five years. After serving at Fort Bliss and Fort Moore, James moved to Bloomington, Indiana. James is a member of the Capital Markets Academy and is majoring in finance. For his summer internship, he joined Wells Fargo as part of its MBA Summer Investment Banking Associate program.

Indiana University and Kelley School resources for MBA veterans and their families

Indiana University Veteran and Military Services: IU Bloomington is home to more than 500 veterans and nearly 750 military spouses and dependents. You’ll find support and assistance navigating VA benefits, using your educational benefits at IU, obtaining family support grants, healthcare options, school procedures for returning from deployment or resuming active duty, and other issues during your transition to IU.
Veterans Club: Join this veteran-led Kelley MBA club to connect with peers for social and career networking, support and to learn about community service opportunities. Veterans and their families often participate in the Partners Club and Kids Club, which are designed to provide ongoing support and social activities for students' partners and children. Learn more about these and other Kelley MBA clubs and organizations.
Student Veterans of America: This IU student organization provides veterans with resources, support, and advocacy that you may need to succeed in higher education and after graduation.
Monroe County Veterans Affairs: This county department offers assistance if you or your family need to access VA benefits or obtain military records.

Snapshot of the graduating classes of 2022 and 2023

Military veterans pursuing MBAs and joint degrees

Veterans moved to Bloomington with families or partners

Home countries of veterans

Alumni spotlight

Cameron served eight years in the US Air Force before moving to Bloomington with his family to begin his Kelley MBA. He majored in Finance and Business Analytics. Why did you pursue an MBA after the military? CJ: While in the military, I was able to develop strong leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. Unfortunately, none of these military skills directly transfer into a civilian career in business. I saw an MBA as the bridge that I needed to transition from my job in the USAF to my dream career in Corporate America. What parts of the Kelley MBA program did you enjoy the most and why? CJ: The people. The people associated with the Kelley School of Business—faculty, alumni, students—are all incredible! I have made lasting relationships and I am grateful to be a part of the largest alumni network in the world.

Cameron Johnson, MBA'21Senior Manager—Omnichannel Strategy, Walmart

Learn about other alumni veterans