Get to Know Christian Ochoa, Full-Time MBA Student and Co-Chair of HABSA

Christian is originally from West Michigan and is the youngest of three siblings. Christian comes from an immigrant household, as his father migrated from Mexico to the United States in the 1980s at the age of 16. Christian is also a first-generation college graduate, Army veteran, and proud theater kid. No one from his public school district had ever been admitted to a service academy, but he successfully gained admission to West Point and, upon graduation, served for over five years as an artillery officer, leaving the service as a captain. Christian left seeking more flexibility and growth in his career and learned about the benefits of an MBA from peers making a similar pivot.

Initially, I recognized the value an MBA could offer me as a transitioning servicemember aiming to pivot into the private sector, but I didn’t fully realize how much the program type and school would matter. I discovered that the full-time program’s immersive nature was especially important to me, along with the increased engagement it offers with companies, student organizations, and leadership opportunities. I was sold on Booth because of its reputation as an academic powerhouse, excellent employment outcomes, and its location in the Midwest.

Joining HABSA was important to me because, as a Hispanic American, we are often underrepresented in academic and professional spaces. This is a significant part of my identity and story, as it reflects the long journey I’ve taken to get here and those who have helped me along the way. I want to be someone who helps others realize their full potential while fostering a sense of belonging. I will always send the elevator back down for those who come next.

My favorite experience with HABSA so far has to be the Pilsen Taco Crawl! The event typically takes place early in the fall and is an excellent way to take advantage of the CTA (we take the train to Pilsen), explore a neighborhood outside of the loop, learn a bit about the cultural heritage of the neighborhood, and of course eat some of the best tacos in the city! I attended a bunch of other events before this one, and I distinctly remember feeling at home for the first time as a Boothie during this event.

I would like prospective students to know that HABSA is not just a group on campus, but a family and community. The co-chairs are locked in on helping you get your needs met, whether those are professional (resume reviews, casing, employer connections) or personal (Friendsgiving, game nights, retreats, mentorship). HABSA can be whatever you need it to be, and hopefully you feel inspired to be a co-chair when you’re a 2Y!

Chicago is a great place to be during NHHM for many reasons. For one, Chicago has a rich Hispanic history, and I frequently find myself learning new things about it the longer I live here. Chicago Spanish speakers have even developed their own unique style of Spanish, which is studied by local universities. For me, Chicago embodies the grit and resilience of the Hispanic working class, a vital force that helped build the city and continues to keep it thriving today.