Chicago Booth Scholars Student Profile Lucy Lu, ’11
Vice President, TPG
Hometown: Troy, MI
Area of Study: Economics
UChicago Grad Year: 2007
What was your application process like?
I studied a lot for my GMAT, using prep guides/books to make sure I had enough test practice. As for the essays, I was very candid about my lack of conviction in any one career path. One of the most valuable elements of a UChicago education is knowing that we don't know everything, and that we need to always remain nimble, self-inquisitive, and curious.
What is your most impactful insight from your Booth experience?
I don't think I fully realized just how "small" my understanding of the world was until I went to Booth. I graduated with a much more developed understanding of global cultures, both on a business and personal level, and an appreciation for all different fields of business. It's a lesson that I'm still learning now—that being "successful" in the business world is not necessarily doing whatever you perceive everyone else doing, but carving out a role for yourself that gives you gratification.
Why should someone be a Booth Scholar?
The question should be, why not? For any undergrad even contemplating a business career, the Booth Scholar opportunity is a must. The brand and quality of your education stays with you forever. As soon as people hear "Chicago Booth," there is automatic credibility to your name. When you first arrive at Booth, you meet so many smart and engaging people from all over the world, some with whom you may have nothing in common. When you leave Booth, you all have an amazing shared identity of having graduated from a top world-class institution.