Simon School of Business at the University of Rochester has cultivated a reputation as an MBA program that values both hard and soft skills in its business leaders, which this year’s incoming class reflects to a high degree.
The MBA Class of 2021 consists of 107 students representing 18 different countries of origin. While Simon’s representation of women MBA candidates of 34 percent in recent years sits below the 38 percent national average, the incoming class reports an impressive jump to 42 percent women representation for 2021. Additionally, the school ranked second in 2018 for percentage increase in women’s salary as measured from before earning their MBA. Forty percent of U.S. students in the class identify as underrepresented minorities.
All together, the new class has an average age of 28 and nearly 6 years of work experience. Prior to entering the workforce, nearly a third had studied business and commerce in college. Twenty-eight percent had majored in the humanities/social sciences while another 19 percent had pursued engineering. Fourteen percent had studied math and science and the remaining seven percent had dedicated their undergraduate years to economics. The middle 80 percent of the class earned GPAs between 2.7 and 3.9, and GMAT scores ranging from 580 to 730. For those who took the GRE, the middle 80 percent quant scores ranged from 144 to 165 and the verbal scores ranged from 148 to 163.
Overall, the polled Class of 2021 students said it was a combination of Simon’s “unabashedly analytical” focus and value of leadership skill development that attracted them to the MBA. Simon’s recruitment aims reflect this as they seek out candidates with strong communication, teamwork, and leadership skills. These attributes were further strengthened by the school’s Edge Program, which was “developed to focus on key competencies today’s employers demand in graduate business students.” Simon has also been leading the way in graduate management education with their embrace of STEM options.
In a time when the phrases like “tight-knit community” and “global focus” are ubiquitous among business schools, Simon genuinely reflects these elements as evidenced in the content of the program, as well as the lived experiences and aspirations of the Class of 2021. Read on to meet a representative group of Simon MBAs.
Hawa Sultani, Simon MBA Class of 2021
Age: 27
Hometown: Sacramento, California
Undergraduate Institution and Major: University of California – Davis, Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry):
I worked over 4 years in the pharmaceutical industry, specifically in the Research & Development sector. The past couple of years, I worked within in the hospitality industry where I transformed a successful restaurant into a local franchise.
Why business school? Why now?
I love being an entrepreneur and finding solutions to complex problems; however, I knew there were business skill sets I lacked that hindered my professional growth. I decided to attend business school to not only strengthen my quant background but also pivot in my career.
Why Simon? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Simon is known as one of the top quantitative schools, which is an area that I want to strengthen my skills. They are the only school to offer a STEM-designated MBA in every concentration and that was highly attractive for me as I plan to enter the Technology space. Lastly, Simon is ranked Top 15 in MBA for Women, which is always comforting to know as a female entering business school.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2021?
As an Afghan-American, I am bringing my story and background to the class of 2021 with the hopes to have open discussion about diversity, inclusion, and equity. We are the leaders of tomorrow and I am coming to business school with the mindset of working with my peers to celebrate and promote diversity in our academic and professional space.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I am currently an aviation student in the process of getting my pilot’s license.
Post-MBA career interests?
I am interested in Venture Capital, specifically for Female Start-ups and Social Impact. I want to not only invest, but also advise and empower our future Boss Ladies to pursue their dreams.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I would definitely visit various campuses and speak to current students in the program to get a better understanding of the culture and opportunities the institution has to offer.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
Even though business school is a great investment, it can be a little expensive, so I would have done more research on financial aid. I would have split my time on school and scholarship applications.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
The GMAT exam. I studied for the exam for 6 months while working full-time and it was very challenging because a lot of the material was new to me. I invested in a GMAT course and I highly advise that to anyone who needs to be held responsible to study.
What is your initial impression of Simon’s students/culture/community?
The one word I always describe Simon is family. I had the privilege to meet the staff and students on-site multiple times prior to applying and every time I set foot on campus everyone welcomes me with open arms. As a West Coast resident, I have the comfort of knowing I can easily ask for help at Simon, and many people will come to my aid, which is essential for a first-generation student like myself.
One thing you have learned about Simon that has surprised you?
For a quantitative school, Simon values the development of soft skills like communication and relationship-building. They get us to become comfortable with professional writing and public speaking, which are both key in leadership.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I am anxious about not having enough time to take advantage of all the opportunities Simon has to offer. The students are highly engaged in clubs and organizations, such as Simon Venture Fund, an investment club, and a student-led consulting club called VISION. I would love to join all three, but I have to be realistic about balancing my academics, extracurricular activities, and social life.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am excited to build lifelong friendships with my talented colleagues. The network Simon provides for students is incredible, and I am looking forward to making memories with the Class of 2021.
Nankam Happi Christian, Simon MBA Class of 2021
Age: 26
Hometown: Douala
Undergraduate Institution and Major: National Advanced School of Engineering Polytechnique, University of Yaoundé I, Telecommunications Engineering
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 3 years, IT & Telecommunications
Why business school? Why now?
I believe Africa is full of business potential and at this moment is becoming ripe for future business investments. Africa will need well-trained business managers, visionaries and leaders of valor. I’m preparing myself to be ready when the opportunities present themselves.
Having led a tech team of engineers in my previous job, I rapidly understood that what Africa lacks are not great engineers, doctors, or teachers but business leaders and visionaries who can use the skilled labor currently available in Africa to build an Africa which will stand out on the world stage even as the great Mali or Egyptian empires of the past.
Why Simon? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Simon’s recent introduction of the STEM certification, its rigorous data analytics, and Finance background perfectly aligned with my engineering background. I felt the transition from engineering to business would be easiest here than elsewhere.
Also, because of Simon’s focus on Entrepreneurship and Leadership – two skills I had always wanted to develop in business school. Finally, Rochester’s great community and decent cost of living all factored into my decision to attend Simon.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2021?
Being an African, born and raised in Cameroon, a country with a very rich cultural diversity, and coming from an Information Technology background, I believe I have a unique view of the business world and the world at large. This I believe is my most differentiating contribution to the Class of 2021.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
My love for African culture and values. I believe there is a lot of wisdom in the African culture, from the great kingdoms and their kings who once dominated the world to its wonderful melodies, dresses, cuisine, and tales.
Post-MBA career interests?
Consulting particularly in Technology, Strategy and Operations or Financial services.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Present my opinions as sincere as possible in my essays. Each and everyone’s story counts. Remember, B-schools particularly Simon love diversity, they want to see your uniqueness as a prospective candidate and not just good test scores.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
Start preparation for B-school much earlier. I’ll take the required tests earlier so as to have time to retake if I’m not satisfied with my scores and definitely apply during the first round. This will increase my chances of receiving an admission offer, and for students from countries where obtaining a US visa is very difficult, apply early enough (about 3-4 months before the start of classes).
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Taking the GMAT and TOEFL. At the time, I was working full time, often leaving very early for work and returning late at night. I didn’t have much time to prepare but by putting in an hour or two most evenings, I was able to take both exams successfully.
What is your initial impression of Simon’s students/culture/community?
Simon is much better than what I had expected. It has a small but extremely diverse student body, and a wonderfully welcoming community.
One thing you have learned about Simon that has surprised you?
The work pace is fast for a B-school. Nevertheless, this is understandable considering the depth of the MBA program offered. There are also a lot of resources to assist students in each course, so the pace is not a problem.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I’m most anxious of the winters in Rochester. Coming from West Africa, I have never experienced winter, let alone a Rochester winter.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m most excited about the community within the school and the city at large. Simon has the most welcoming community I have met so far. From the faculty to the students, everyone is super kind and enthusiastic. I really look forward to spending the next two years at Simon.
Gabriela Pacheco, Simon MBA Class of 2021
Age: 27
Hometown: El Salvador, Central America
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Escuela Superior de Economía y Negocios, Business and Economics
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): Over 6 years of work experience for top brands such as Millicom and Starbucks across Central American markets. Responsible for the analysis and execution of plans aimed at upgrading the profitability of brands under a customer experience scope.
Why business school? Why now?
I aim to land a higher position in my professional career. I see Simon Business school as a means to fulfill that ambition. I visualize my MBA as the bridge to conquer my professional dreams and as a milestone that will impact my whole life forever. I am convinced the holistic approach of the program will give me a new set of unabashedly analytical skills and would allow me to reinforce my leadership skills as well.
Upon completion of the program, my short-term goal is to represent a global brand by leading a regional marketing division. Besides this professional objective, I also want to inspire and help young women complete their education and pursue their dreams by supporting scholarship programs in my home country. Then, in the long run, I expect to have my own enterprise based on a high sense of social responsibility and self-sustainability model.
Why Simon? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Three main factors inspired me to attend Simon Business School:
- First is Simon’s STEM MBA certification. This was a key factor for me since I am an international student. Besides allowing me to have a data-driven marketing specialization, it would give me access to better job opportunities here in the U.S.
- The second factor is Simon’s focus on gender equality of the program. We are one of the top MBA programs for women in the USA (No.13, Financial Times) and we are proud to have 42% representation of female students in 2021 class. Simon is also a partner of Forté, an organization that empowers women in business. I am truly grateful for this partnership because I was able to get a scholarship to support my MBA.
- Last but not least, the sense of community and kindness of the school. I experienced this since my first encounter with the admissions team. I am now experiencing it with all my classmates, alumni network, and everyone at Simon.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2021?
Due to my diverse background in international marketing, I bring a creative perspective and outside-the-box thinking to every task. I also enjoy sharing my experience with my classmates.
Fun fact: one of the advantages of my previous work in Starbuck Central America is that I can recommend the perfect coffee (or tea) for everyone according to their preference and mood of the day!
Also, I enjoy creating meaningful and genuine connections with people. This may be through extending a helping hand, brightening up one’s day, or making my classmates smile.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I appeared in my first magazine & newspaper advertisement at 11 years old. Since then, I love looking at all kinds of ads – I even have a collection of them.
Post-MBA career interests?
Brand Management/Marketing Strategy focused in Consumer-Packaged Goods (CPG) or Food and Beverage sector.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I would recommend participating in campus visits and connecting with both alumni and current students from the program. My campus visits helped me a lot in making my decision because I was able to get a preview of the experience I was going to have. Furthermore, all the networking I did with current students was very helpful in understanding their perspective and getting great advice before starting the program.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
I think every part of the process was necessary to achieve my final goal. If I could change one thing, I would network with more people from different schools before the application process. As I mentioned before, having several conversations with current Simon Alumni helped me tremendously to learn more about the school and its culture.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I would skip all the weekends I spent preparing for GRE and TOEFL, since I had so little time during the week after my work. However, studying for both exams was an experience that allowed me to showcase my resilience and self-commitment.
In the end, you will feel so proud of yourself after taking those tests and you will realize that every hour you dedicated paid off! I would describe this part of the process as a marathon instead of a sprint; every “workout” day counts and the most important is consistency.
What is your initial impression of Simon’s students/culture/community?
Everyone at Simon makes you feel like home from the first moment. It is a tight-knit community where the people are so kind and warm that they motivate us to be the same way with others.
It is also impressive how supportive our classmates are; from finding a ride when you need it or having some help moving into your apartment, to preparation sessions for your next interview or one-on-one coaching for MBA conferences. Every interaction reflects how strong the Simon core values are within each and every student.
One thing you have learned about Simon that has surprised you?
I am surprised about how the program is so well-structured and balanced. Besides our challenging classes, every week we have several activities and workshops geared towards career preparation, community service projects, networking events, and more.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
One of my biggest challenges will be finding the proper balance among academics, networking, and career preparation. I will be also adapting to a new culture. I am sure it will be an amazing time, but I will have to learn how to prioritize and manage my time strategically.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am beyond excited to embrace the Simon Experience with my classmates and the rest of the community. Through this journey, I am looking forward to discovering new professional and personal facts about myself.
Marcel Roos, Simon MBA Class of 2021
Age: 31
Hometown: Johannesburg, South Africa
Undergraduate Institution and Major: University of Pretoria, Accounting.
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 7 years in the financial services industry, primarily in asset management.
Why business school? Why now?
I was very proud of what I have achieved in my career thus far, but I was ready to challenge myself further. After a lot of introspection, I was debating where I was in my career and where I wanted to go.
I realized that the finance industry is changing rapidly. To advance my career and position myself for the future, I knew that I had to transform and diversify my skill set. Simon’s STEM MBA is a way for me to become a leader in a digitally driven world, a world that relies more on data and analytics.
Why Simon? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I see Simon’s MBA as the nexus between deep theoretical knowledge and crucial soft skills, such as leadership skills and communication skills. Simon’s STEM designation is testament to the analytical lens that they use to teach all facets of business education. This makes it the ideal program to cultivate my analytical aptitude and refine my existing skill set.
Technology is the primary driving force behind global growth and has created a massive demand for leaders who can manage people in this industry. Simon’s smaller class sizes, rich diversity, and strong culture of inclusivity fosters the development of the soft skills required to be a leader in a digitally driven world.
During my visit to campus, I immediately noticed how tight-knit and welcoming the Simon community truly is. Everyone cares for each other and pride themselves in selflessly ensuring that everyone succeeds. This was extremely important, especially because I knew that I would be away from my normal support structure in South Africa.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2021?
The UN estimates that the global population will grow by 3.6 billion from now until the year 2100. What is significant about this figure is that 3.2 billion of this growth will take place solely in Africa. Africa is an integral part of who I am, and I believe that it will play an increasingly important role in terms of business opportunities.
Therefore, I believe that my most valuable contribution to the class of 2021 is my work experience in Africa. Challenges in Africa are often quite unique to the region, but with relevant insights, innovation and influence, one can make a lasting social impact without compromising on profitability.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
Using the Heimlich maneuver, I once saved a man’s life who had choked unconscious. This served as a useful reminder that even the small things that you learn, however insignificant they may seem at the time, may have a momentous impact on your or someone else’s life in the future.
Post-MBA career interests?
My post-MBA goal is to work for a top-tier finance or technology company in the US. Having worked for over seven years in various financial services roles, I know that FinTech will continue to disrupt and completely revolutionize the finance industry. The combination of the Simon MBA and my existing finance background will position me perfectly for a product development role on the investment side of the FinTech industry.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I encourage everyone to visit the schools they are interested in. Coming from Africa, it was a 30-hour journey to the US to experience Simon. An MBA is not just a two-year commitment, but one that will transform the rest of your life.
Taking the time to ensure that you are a great fit for your target school is well worth the effort. Ultimately, experiencing Simon’s culture and sense of community firsthand were huge factors in choosing to enroll at Simon.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
Initially I wanted to apply to over 10 different MBA programs. This resulted in a lot of unnecessary stress and late nights. I would highly recommend spending more time to identify schools that you are truly interested in and limiting your options to no more than five schools. That way you can use your time to prepare the most compelling applications.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
The GMAT! I took the GMAT at the end of December when my family and friends were enjoying the holiday season. Staying focused on the bigger picture of getting admitted to Simon kept me motivated during this period to keep going and it ultimately paid off.
What is your initial impression of Simon’s students/culture/community?
The support and sense of community at Simon has far exceeded my expectations. This has greatly assisted me in managing the demands of moving to a new country and pursuing an MBA. I am also blown away and inspired by the sheer talent, drive, and grit of my fellow Simon students.
One thing you have learned about Simon that has surprised you?
I really underestimated just how beneficial the smaller class sizes would be. It encourages engaging classroom discussions where you benefit from the diverse cultures and professional experiences of your cohort.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
At first, I was quite anxious about getting a great internship offer. However, the career management center at Simon has reduced my anxiety by providing me with great support and guidance.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Getting to know all of the Simon students and staff better and building lifelong friendships.
Chey Savoy, Simon MBA Class of 2021
Age: 28
Hometown: Seat Pleasant, MD
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Howard University, Information Systems
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 5 years as a Federal IT Consultant
Why business school? Why now?
I decided to attend business school because I knew it would provide me with the unique opportunity to hone my leadership skills in both academic and professional settings. The combination of my corporate and personal experiences provided me with the insight needed to make this decision.
I’ve also always had a passion and aptitude for numbers; business school provides the perfect gateway to pivot my career into the world of finance. I reached a pivotal point in my career where I had to decide if I wanted to take the next step in my current field or take a leap and start a new journey. I’m proud to say that I took the leap.
Why Simon? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose Simon for three main reasons: Culture, Diversity, and Academics. I knew that I wanted to attend a school that had a family-like feel to it, and Simon fit the bill perfectly.
Our small size makes it easy for us to get to know one another on a very personal level. I also knew that I wanted to attend a school where diversity and inclusion is deeply rooted in who they are. Simon is a 51-year member of the Consortium for Graduate Study in Management.
This longstanding commitment showed me that diversity is entrenched in their mission and values. Lastly, I wanted to attend a school that would equip me with the analytical tools needed to succeed in today’s finance world. It is no secret that Simon is academically rigorous and “unabashedly analytical.” All in all, I know what I signed up for, and so far, it has been one of the best decisions of my life.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2021?
My most valuable contribution to my class is always being my authentic self. You will always know what you’re getting from me, no matter the situation. I believe that this is super important in life because there’s only one you in the world, and you should let everyone see that.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I played the drums for both my family church and a DC Go-Go band. I haven’t played in a while, but I’m sure I haven’t lost a step!
Post-MBA career interests?
I plan to join a Finance Leadership Development Program with a Fortune 500 company, and eventually transition to a leadership role within my fraternity, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I would definitely visit business schools again. When I came to Rochester for Experience Simon Weekend, it just felt as if I belonged here. I would want every prospective student to have that same experience, no matter where they decide to attend school.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
If I could go back, I would spend more time on my essays. Not so much on writing them, but more so on letting others read them beforehand in order to provide feedback. That’s extremely important when going through such a strenuous process.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Without a doubt, I would’ve skipped the GMAT. Taking a standardized test after being out of school is no laughing matter. Utilizing the prep materials, such as the OG books, was huge in helping me achieve the score I wanted.
What is your initial impression of Simon’s students/culture/community?
My initial impression was that everyone is extremely authentic. I pride myself on always being authentic, so seeing it come from an entire business school community was eye-opening.
One thing you have learned about Simon that has surprised you?
I’ve been really surprised by the sheer amount of support you receive from any and everyone in the Simon Community. I’ve never felt so special in my life!
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I would say that I’m most anxious about taking final exams, for obvious reasons. Afterall, what’s more stressful than taking a 3-hour test that’s worth 50% of your grade?
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m most excited about just being a student again!
Daniela De Risco, Simon MBA Class of 2021
Age: 29
Hometown: Great Falls, Virginia
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Virginia Commonwealth University, Mass Communications
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 7 years, Media and Healthcare — Marketing
Why business school? Why now?
I always knew that I wanted to pursue a graduate degree and after working in a corporate setting it became clear that a masters would help me advance in my career. I was between a Masters in Brand Management or an MBA but decided on the MBA because I wanted to make sure I focused on strengthening the hard skills. Now is the perfect time because I have enough work experience that I can apply to the material I will be learning in class.
Why Simon? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Pursuing an MBA is a financial and time investment, so I wanted to make sure the program I chose, was going to challenge me. When I first heard about Simon, (through The Consortium) I was attracted to its quantitative and analytical focus. 100% that is not my background but I believe that we must be challenged and when we stretch ourselves is when we see real growth.
When I visited Simon, I knew right away Simon was it. It is a smaller class which I love because I feel like I am much more than a number and the sense of community is not explainable – you just have to experience it!
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2021?
My nephew describes me as a “magnet,” he says I can talk to anyone about anything and connect people, and I want to do just that in my class. I also like to ask the hard questions and bring up conversations to make us think about what really matters.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I have been to over 50 vineyards and enjoy learning about the story behind each vineyard. I am super excited that Rochester has many vineyards to explore close to campus!
Post-MBA career interests?
Post-MBA I want to work in a brand management role for a company that values and focuses on multi-cultural audiences specifically the Hispanic market. The Hispanic population is the fastest-growing segment and accounts for almost half of the U.S population growth. I want to continue working with brands to reach this fast-growing population.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process.
I would say my favorite part of the application process was the people I met through school visits, diversity weekends, MBA fairs, etc. A group of us became really close through the process and although we all ended up going to different schools, we still keep in touch.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
I would have an open mind from the beginning. I was so set on going to a school in California (where I was living prior to Simon) or DC area (where I grew up) and ended up learning about Simon towards the end of the application cycle. I would suggest going into the process with an open mind, life sometimes surprises you with great detours!
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it? Absolutely taking the GRE. Working a time-demanding job and studying while trying to keep a social life was tough! Setting a study schedule and sticking to it really helped. Also, make sure you surround yourself with people that will motivate you to keep going! In hindsight, that is how B-School will be like with recruiting, classes, clubs and social activities so I guess it was just a taste of what the next couple of years will be like.
What is your initial impression of Simon’s students/culture/community?
My initial impression is how diverse (in every aspect of the word) the class is. The diversity of thought is very apparent, and it will allow all of us to learn from each other and continue growing in our future careers.
You feel a sense of community and “pay it forward” mentality from everyone at Simon. I heard about it during the application process but when you are part of the community and see it all the time it becomes real, really fast. We have not officially started school and I have experienced the “family like/ tight-knight” community for sure!
One thing you have learned about Simon that has surprised you?
How well rounded the students are, IQ&EQ. I expected to be around very smart people (yes) but it is amazing that my classmates are also very emotionally intelligent – you can see it through the interactions in and outside of the classroom.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Balance! There are so many things going on — recruiting, classes, clubs, social activities, etc. I am anxious about over-committing and not having enough time to get involved in all the great opportunities available to Simon students.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am excited to continue to bond and build relationships with my classmates. I am also very excited about the summer internship so I can put what I will be learning this first year to action!
