Molly Faul, Notre Dame Mendoza MSM Class of 2026
Age: 23
Hometown: Bradenton, Florida
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Furman University, Communication Studies Major, Visual Strategies Minor
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I just graduated from Furman University in May and decided to pursue the one-year Master of Science in Management at the University of Notre Dame. I began undergrad as a Communication Studies major because I loved storytelling and initially imagined myself working in news, but everything shifted during my junior year when I completed an aviation internship. My manager, Julie, was someone who could walk into any room with confidence and command respect in the corporate environment. Watching and learning from her that summer made me realize how much I wanted to grow into that kind of professional. While my communications background gave me a strong voice and people skills, I knew I needed deeper exposure to business, finance, and analytical thinking to truly thrive in the corporate environment. This ultimately led me to apply for business school.
Why did you choose Notre Dame Mendoza? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose Notre Dame’s Mendoza College of Business because it offered both a top-tier education and a community I felt deeply connected to. My great grandfather and grandfather both attended Notre Dame, which means I grew up being surrounded by Notre Dame pride. What truly set Mendoza apart was its incredibly strong alumni network. I am only one semester in and I have already experienced the help and benefits of the alumni base. The MSM Curriculum offers consulting, finance, accounting, analytics, digital marketing, and emerging areas like AI. The program’s all-in-one design gives me the broad business foundation I am seeking.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the class?
I think my most valuable contribution to the class is my ability to connect with people and communicate clearly. I genuinely enjoy working with others, and I tend to bring a positive energy that helps teams collaborate/feel comfortable sharing ideas.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
A fun fact about me is that my brother, my sister, and I are all Division I lacrosse players. I previously played Division I lacrosse at Furman University, and now my sister, who is four years younger than me, plays at the same school, making it a really special experience for our family (I love visiting my alma mater even more now!).
Post-MSM career interests:
One of the main reasons I decided to do the MSM program was for help discerning a career path. Following the program, I am interested in pursuing roles within strategy, sales, or marketing, where I can combine analytical thinking with relationship-driven work. I would love to work for a food or beverage company, as food and beverages often bring people together!
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
One thing I would absolutely do again as part of my application process is take my interview in person. While I understand that’s not feasible for everyone, I found it made a big difference in being able to connect face-to-face. It allowed them to see me and for me, and for me to really get a feel for the program/school. I would definitely do it again if I had the chance.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
One thing I would do differently is trust myself more throughout the process. I spent more time than I needed doubting my abilities, and I now realize I should have had more confidence in what I bring to the table (YOU GOT THIS!)
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
If I could, I would have skipped the video assessment. It was a stressful piece of the application, as the questions were rapid fire and you didn’t know what you would be asked. That said, it ended up being helpful because it forced me to focus on how I respond and how to maintain my composure in these types of face-pace situations.
What is your initial impression of the Notre Dame Mendoza students/culture/community?
My first impression of Mendoza was that the students and community are amazing. Everyone I met was so welcoming and genuinely excited about the program. From chatting with current students who couldn’t stop raving about their experience (this was extremely helpful to hear from the students themselves), to the professors, and the alumni, it’s clear that people here really want you to succeed. Also, fun Notre Dame traditions like the football student section with your cohort was super exciting! The energy and support in this community is unlike anywhere else.
What is one thing you have learned about Notre Dame Mendoza that has surprised you?
What really surprised me about Mendoza is just how willing alumni are to help. Literally anything you need or want to achieve, someone who has graduated is ready to support you. Notre Dame grads really want to see other Notre Dame students succeed. You don’t know until you know, so Go Notre Dame! Go Mendoza College of Business! Go Irish!
