A Memorable MBA Supply Chain Mixer

Nickolas Falken, MBA ’26

As I arrived at the Michigan State University Breslin Center for the MBA Supply Chain Mixer, I felt undeniable excitement and anticipation. This wasn’t just any event—it was an opportunity to connect, learn, and envision my future in the supply chain sector. The Breslin Center itself, a campus landmark known as the home of the MSU men’s and women’s basketball teams, added a layer of grandeur to the evening. Simply stepping into the arena felt powerful.

I was the first student to arrive, so I had the opportunity to be the first voice to represent the Broad MBA community by speaking with alumni and industry leaders, all eager to share experiences, insights, and wisdom about the ever-evolving landscape of the supply chain management industry. I quickly found myself deep in conversation with a representative from P&G’s supply chain division, who shared his professional journey with me. His role at the company is within the consumer products segment, specifically focusing on experiences in the oral care department.

The conversation took an intriguing turn when he explained how rapid consumer trends could impact their supply chain operations. A perfect example was Disney-themed toothbrushes—one moment, Olaf is the star attraction, and almost overnight, demand shifts to Moana. This highlighted the incredible agility required in modern supply chain management. The ability of businesses to pivot swiftly in response to shifting consumer preferences was something that I hadn’t previously considered. What’s trendy today is not always what’s popular tomorrow, and the supply chain must be able to shift as fast as the consumers’ interests.

Listening to these real-world examples resonated with my studies and reinforced my excitement for a future career in supply chain management. This mixer wasn’t just about making connections; it was about gaining profound insights into the real-world micro transactions that take place between consumer trends and logistics.

My conversations at the event also reinforced a vital understanding: education and professional growth are ongoing journeys. Our experiences shape us each day into more capable, insightful, and effective professionals. Leaving the Breslin Center that evening, I felt inspired—not just by what I had learned, but also by the sheer energy and enthusiasm shared by the industry leaders present. The experience was a powerful reminder of the incredible opportunities awaiting us and the endless potential for growth as we continue to evolve into better versions of ourselves, ready to face tomorrow’s challenges head-on.