For those on a journey from the battlefield to the boardroom, the Wharton School helps its MBA student veterans as they transition into the private sector. Active duty personnel also receive tuition benefits and the support of the School as they embark on their studies while remaining in service.
The School assists veterans in ensuring they receive tuition aid that is available from Department of Veterans Affairs programs such as the GI Bill®.*, and the Yellow Ribbon Program. Fellowship support and other financial aid options are granted by Wharton as part of admission offers.
Maryellen Reilly, deputy vice dean of the MBA program, said the School is honored to recruit veterans to the program because of what they offer to the Wharton community. She said veterans bring a great breadth of experience across all facets of leadership — and an excitement about the classroom as they look to transition from the military to civilian life, or return to the military with their MBA.
“The diversity of the Wharton community is absolutely enhanced by having veterans in our classes while Wharton is teaching them business skills,” Reilly said. “And they are highly sought after by peers and employers because of their leadership qualities.”
Reilly said the Wharton Veterans Club — whose motto is “united through service” — is the primary place where community building happens among veteran students: “Our veterans come from all branches of service and all sorts of roles. The Wharton Veterans Club provides them a place to have a laugh and to talk about transitioning to civilian life while sharing their experiences with each other and fellow classmates.”
Coinciding with Veterans Day, Vets Week at Wharton is an opportunity for all students to celebrate and learn about what it means to be in the service. There are guest speakers, including alumni, and events that highlight the meaning of military service.
“Our veterans community is legendary among our peer schools for being the best in any MBA program,” said Reilly. “They’re involved with every facet of the School, from admissions to academics through social life and recruiting, and our alumni stay connected.”
If you are part of the Wharton alumni community and would like access to exclusive benefits offered by the Wharton Veterans Club, please click here for more information.
Editor’s Note: “*GI Bill®” is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.