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!
