Thomas Sengmany, Stanford GSB MBA Class of 2022
Age: 28
Hometown: Paris, France
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Chimie ParisTech – University Paris Sciences & Lettres, Chemistry; University of Cambridge, MPhil in Advanced Chemical Engineering
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): I spent five years at L’Oréal in Research & Development in a variety of product development roles. I started in Tokyo, Japan, working on skincare innovation and later moved to Paris, France, to focus on hair care product development.
Why business school? Why now?
After spending five years in the Beauty industry designing disruptive and life-changing products for consumers, I wanted to take my career to the next level and learn how to design disruptive and life-changing organizations for our world. For me, business school is the next logical step to take me outside my comfort zone while learning how to create a bigger impact. Moreover, being surrounded by peers from such different backgrounds is a wonderful way to obtain the tools I need to help me grow as a leader with a global mindset.
Why Stanford GSB? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
The GSB’s motto “Change lives. Change organizations. Change the world.” Resonates deeply with me. Everything starts with changing lives. I have always been passionate about improving people’s lives, whether through Beauty or through social impact. A few years ago, I mentored disabled students every Saturday morning to help them harness the confidence to pursue their dreams. Stanford’s strong focus on social innovation was definitely a key driver in my final choice. Additionally, being at the heart of Silicon Valley, where everyone strives to create an impact, makes the GSB the best place to be to reinvent our world.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2022?
I have lived across three continents – Europe, Asia, Australia – before moving for the first time to the United States for my MBA. Everything is new for me, and I love bringing new perspectives to my classmates, even if that means I am the only one in the room who thinks differently. On top of that, my experience working with consumers to understand what they need and my in-depth knowledge of social trends and markets create a unique mix that boosts discussions.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
As a kid, my dream job was to be a cashier. I am also obsessed with cheese and charcuterie boards. I might or might not have brought a suitcase full of cheeses to the US…
Post-MBA career interests?
I would love to find a role in the Consumer & Retail industry that allows me to have a bigger picture than that I had as a product manager. Working as chief of staff or in corporate strategy would be awesome.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
During the application process, I took several weeks to reflect on my life journey so far. I thought a lot about my experiences, both professional and personal, that shape the person I am today. This was critical as I wanted to find a unique way to tell my story and really stand out with my application. Storytelling is definitely something I want to continue to pursue, and my MBA application was the first step in the learning process!
–One thing you would change or do differently?
I spent a lot of time self-analyzing my past life. I think it would have been more efficient to ask people around me – family, friends, coworkers – for genuine feedback about what makes me different from others.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Definitely the GMAT! I still have painful memories of me going to the library on weekends while my friends were going for brunch. I once studied GMAT on a beach in Malaysia, while on holidays. The cocktails definitely helped me get through it!
What is your initial impression of Stanford GSB’s students/culture/community?
I am amazed by how open people are about their own insecurities. The GSB creates a culture where it is acceptable, and even encouraged, to be vulnerable and to share your personal story. For example, every week, we have “TALK” where two students share their life stories with the class.
One thing you have learned about Stanford GSB that has surprised you?
Everything is very casual here, from relationships with people we meet for the first time to the way people dress. I am getting used to this Californian vibe; going back to Paris will be rough for me!
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Time management. There are literally not enough hours in a day to do everything: meeting my classmates, getting involved in clubs, working out, thinking about my post-GSB career, while not forgetting about classes and homework 😉
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Making deep and meaningful relationships with awesome people! Also, learning about life in the US (so many types of peanut butter!).
