Insights on the Kilts Fellowship with Kyle Balog

Kyle Balog headshot

Kyle discusses some of the unique benefits of being a Kilts Fellow and gives advice to those looking to pursue marketing-related careers post Chicago Booth.

In this blog, Kilts Fellow and Evening MBA student, Kyle Balog, shares what the Kilts Fellowship (managed by the James M. Kilts Center for Marketing), has to offer students looking to pursue marketing-related roles post graduation. Read on to learn more about how the fellowship is beneficial to students at Chicago Booth. 

Kyle Balog in front of the Bean

About Kyle and his journey to Chicago Booth…

Kyle currently works on the analytics team at Nike and his day-to-day involves developing supply chain optimization engines. With degrees and experience in engineering and data science, Kyle decided to pursue an MBA to better understand how to design, implement, and value tomorrow’s innovative technical products to positively impact both the environment and bottom line.

group photo at Kilts Winter Meetup

In a few words, what does being a Kilts Fellow mean to you?

Paying-it-forward. Connecting with fellows and alumni who share my professional interests has been a deeply rewarding experience. I’ve been inspired by their openness, thoughtful advice, and the incredible diversity of perspectives they bring. The Kilts Fellowship has broadened my thinking and helped remind me of the power that building community and having mentorship truly provides.

Kyle Balog with friends downtown at night with skyline in background

What quick piece of advice would you give to someone interested in marketing, tech, product management, etc. who is considering Chicago Booth?

Follow the numbers, but never lose sight of the people and dynamics at the heart of every organization, system, or process. One thing I love about Chicago Booth is that Booth’s analytical rigor is seamlessly integrated with qualitative frameworks to empower leaders and create lasting impact.

Kyle Balog with other Boothies in group photo taken at Ski Trip

Fun Facts about Kyle:

  • Kyle is on a mission to visit every US National Park and just passed the halfway point!
  • Kyle loves exploring the backcountry and is an avid trail runner and skier.

  • Kyle prides himself in having derived the mathematically optimal Chipotle order. 

Check out the Kilts Center website for more information on the Kilts Fellowship and other resources offered to members of the Booth community. We also encourage you to fill out this form if you are interested in learning more about the student experience at Chicago Booth and exploring what an MBA from Booth has to offer. 

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