MIT LGO students are part of a unique, tight-knit community – one that extends from the classroom to the dinner table to the playing field and beyond. Because of the intensive nature of the program and the fact that no more than 50 students enroll in each LGO class, students establish a strong sense of camaraderie early on and remain closely connected long after graduation.
Community building begins on day one of LGO's eleven-week summer semester, during which first-year students participate in initial LGO core courses and work together in teams to tackle coursework. Team-based learning continues in various forms throughout the two-year program, providing ample opportunities for students to assume leadership roles and hone their collaboration skills.
In keeping with the program's emphasis on operations and leadership development, students help manage LGO by leading student committees responsible for key program activities – from organizing plant treks to recruiting new students and partner companies. Most students also join at least one of MIT Sloan's 70-plus clubs, which range in focus from entrepreneurship to women in management to energy and the environment. Intramural sports are big as well, with ice hockey and softball among the most popular LGO sports.
Amazingly, LGO students maintain vibrant social calendars on top of their classes and program activities. Dinner parties, hiking excursions, weekend trips, and barbecues are just some of the activities that students organize and engage in regularly. Spouses and children also engage with both LGO and the broader MIT community, participating in family-friendly activities that include a Halloween party and a cruise on the Charles River.
