Pietro Cavallo, NYU Stern MBA Class of 2028
Age: 27
Hometown: Cuneo, Italy
Undergraduate Institution and Major: International University of Monaco, Major in Finance
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Senior Investment Associate (VC) at Alchimia for four years; Investment Analyst (VC/PE) at Rosberg Ventures for one year
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
My long-term dream has always been to build my own investment company. After five years working in venture capital and investing across Europe, I realized that becoming a well-rounded investor would require three things I could not easily build in my existing environment: broader experience, additional credibility, and a network that extends beyond Europe. I see the MBA as an opportunity to develop all three. As for timing, I think there has rarely been a more exciting moment to be at the intersection of finance and technology, given the transformation the industry is going through due to AI.
Why did you choose NYU Stern? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
For me, NYU Stern is uniquely positioned because of its connection to New York City and the finance industry. Stern attracts leading firms across finance and technology, while its location in the heart of Manhattan allows students to proactively build relationships with professionals outside the classroom. I also really value the emphasis Stern places on EQ. Coming from an international background, I have found that this emphasis on interpersonal skills comes through in my conversations with students, alumni, and professors, and makes Stern feel particularly welcoming.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2028?
Growing up in Italy and studying and working across different European markets has exposed me to different cultures and ways of thinking that I can bring to class.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
As a kid, I tried and failed at least 10 different sports before discovering that I was actually good at gymnastics.
Post-MBA career interests:
My long-term goal is to build my own investment company, and I see several paths that could eventually take me there. In the short term, I want to continue developing as a finance professional, ideally gaining more transaction and operating experience with growth-stage technology companies.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
Be introspective and start early. Give yourself enough time to understand the real motivations behind your decision to pursue an MBA. Stern places a lot of value on EQ, so being able to communicate your authentic story is important.
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I would absolutely work with my coach again to prepare for the GMAT. I never considered myself particularly strong at standardized tests, so the process initially felt intimidating. It taught me how much consistent effort and the right mentor can change the outcome. I was lucky to work with Isaac Puglia, who played a big role in helping me achieve my result.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would have started earlier and given myself more time to engage with schools and alumni. Those conversations ended up being some of the most valuable parts of the process, and I wish I had created more opportunities for them.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Honestly, none. Even the parts of the process I found more challenging helped me clarify my motivations and what I was looking for in an MBA. Each step felt like a building block toward the final decision.
What is your initial impression of the NYU Stern students/culture/community?
I’ve been impressed by how friendly and genuinely helpful everyone is. Even before the semester started, I was surprised by how willing students and alumni were to share their experiences and help incoming students.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
I joined a mix of clubs that reflect both my professional and personal interests. The Graduate Finance Association (“GFA”) is the largest club at Stern and is a great resource for banking recruiting, while the Private Equity/Venture Capital Club is more closely aligned with my interest in buy-side recruiting. I’m also a very active person, so I’m really looking forward to joining the Adventure Club’s ski trips and other activities.
What is one thing you have learned about NYU Stern that has surprised you?
Coming from Italy, I knew NYU was a large university, but I only fully appreciated the scale once I stepped onto campus. I was surprised by the incredible variety of courses available, not only within Stern but across NYU’s different schools. It makes the MBA feel more customizable than I initially expected.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m most excited to experience the semester in full swing: starting courses and electives, enjoying the Stern community, and starting the recruiting process. I’m especially looking forward to seeing how much I can take advantage of everything New York has to offer.
