After working as a relationship manager at a small regional bank, Ivan Camponogara (Yale SOM, ’21) decided to pursue an MBA and chose to attend the Yale School of Management. During his time at Yale SOM, Camponogara has appreciated the welcoming and kind nature of the Yale SOM community, and in this interview shared his advice for how MBA Admitted students can make the right decision based on their unique goals.
MBASchooled: What did you do before business school, and why did you choose to come to business school?
I was a relationship manager with M&T Bank, a regional community bank. My focus was on lending to businesses in the New York City area. I really enjoyed the relationship aspect of the role and while there I fully realized the importance of a strong network. I decided to attend business school in order to scale up the value I can provide clients and drastically increase the power of my network.
MBASchooled: What were your big questions coming into making your decision on which school to attend?
My key questions surrounded the experience and community that I would have, as well as the kind of network that would come as a result of attending the particular school. I understand that business schools teach in particular ways, but overall, I consider all the top schools able to deliver the academic rigor I was seeking.
MBASchooled: Why did you choose to attend Yale SOM?
Ultimately, the key decision maker was the community. When I visited Yale SOM, I felt a strong sense of kindness and community there. I could see myself being comfortable and successful during my two years there. Ultimately, these are two very impactful years in our lives and the friendships that we create could last a lifetime, so I chose the place that felt most natural for me.
MBASchooled: What about the culture and classmates stood out to you about Yale SOM?
I like that Yale SOM is a very welcoming culture. Wherever you are whether it’s class discussions, new clubs, or social situations, everyone is very welcoming and makes sure that you are included. Additionally, I think Yale has a very humble culture where everyone around you is extremely accomplished but the focus is on improving further.
MBASchooled: What resources, programs or information were helpful to you in making your decision?
There were many resources that were very helpful for me. I found that the Yale alums and current students were very responsive and helpful to providing color on what the current experience is like. Additionally, I went to the Consortium information events and they were extremely helpful in guiding my decision. Most importantly, I think that visitation weekends and getting on campus are the best way to get a feel for a school.
MBASchooled: How has Yale SOM helped you work toward your own career goals and aspirations?
Yale has served as a springboard for me to get where I was looking to go and to secure my ideal internship opportunity. On campus, there are numerous support systems such as Career Services, and the clubs that provide constant information and preparation for the job search. Most importantly, I found are my current classmates and alumni that provide connections with current leaders in the field that were key to securing my internship.
MBASchooled: What has been a surprise, or an unexpected element of your experience at Yale SOM?
It is amazing to see how excited my classmates are to be present at Yale and also the extent to which we can drive our own experience. A lot of events at school are designed and run by the students themselves, meaning we can make almost all the events what we want them to be. All of that adds up to making the experience we want it to be.
MBASchooled: What advice do you have for those who are evaluating where they want to attend business school?
I always recommend narrowing down what the key areas of focus are for what you are looking for in a school. No school will be number 1 in every category and as a result I think it helps provide focus in the decision knowing what your top 3 decision categories are. Once you have these clear in your mind, you can talk to current students and alumni to get some clarity. Most importantly, I think it’s very important to visit all the schools you are considering, and ultimately go with your intuition!
For More on Yale SOM
From Professional Soccer Player to MBA Student, How Jon Okafor made his way to Yale SOM
For More Details on How to Prepare for Business School, Check out our Preparing For Business School Guide