Jonathan Vasquez is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, in which he served from 2011 to 2019. During his time in the College, he explored his interests in business and rugby and studied abroad. After graduating with a degree in economics, he will work at Morgan Stanley as a director of operations.
What drew you to UChicago after your military service?
After my military service, I was drawn to UChicago because of the renowned economics department and the opportunity to challenge myself through its rigorous coursework. The university's academic excellence and strong commitment to intellectual inquiry made it the perfect environment for me to thrive in post-military life.
How have your past experiences influenced your academic and career interests?
Participating in the Warrior-Scholar Project's academic boot camps ignited my curiosity and appreciation for a diverse curriculum, like the Core at UChicago. My involvement in various student organizations exposed me to a wide array of opportunities in finance, ultimately leading me to pursue a career in banking.
What RSOs or other programs at UChicago were you a part of?
During my time at UChicago, I was an active member of the Undergraduate Investment Banking Group, the Men's Rugby Club, Student Veterans of America, and the Business Organization for Latino Development. I also had the privilege of participating in several study abroad programs, including the Roman Civilization Program in Rome, Italy, the Law, Letters, and Society Program in Paris, France, and the Economics Program in London, United Kingdom.
What advice would you give to future Veteran Scholars?
To future Veteran Scholars, I would advise seeking support from peers, professors, and tutors, as there are numerous resources available at UChicago. Don't hesitate to ask for help, as you don't need to navigate this journey alone. Additionally, embrace new experiences, such as learning a language, studying abroad, participating in sports, or attending guest lectures from esteemed professors, as these opportunities enrich your college experience.
After graduation, what are your plans?
After gaining valuable work experience, I plan to apply to business school, with the hope of returning to UChicago's Booth School of Business for my MBA.