Sajal Marwaha, Yale SOM’s MBA Class of 2023
Age: 27
Hometown: Jalandhar, Punjab, India
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Birla Institute of Technology & Science, Pilani; Major in Chemical Engineering
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): J.P. Morgan (3 years, Investment Banking), Clinton Health Access Initiative (2 years, Public Health Consulting)
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I wanted to attend business school mainly because of two reasons. Firstly, my experience highlighted a need to hone my leadership skills. I felt that business school provides ample of opportunities to do that, both academically and professionally. Secondly, I wanted to gain a cross-cultural network of like-minded individuals and there is no better place for that!
I made this decision in 2020 because it was an ambition defining year for me. The year showed us the gaps we need to fill at various personal and professional levels. An MBA is the first step towards that.
Why did you choose Yale SOM? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
One thing about Yale SOM that stood out for me is the focus on business and society. I wanted to be a part of the community that focuses on social capital and impact in the context of business. Second, SOM’s unique Raw Case method and Integrated Curriculum considers perspectives of diverse stakeholders while solving real life business problems. Third, SOM is very well integrated with the wider Yale community. It is exciting that the university gives you a platform to explore inter-disciplinary courses from other schools.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2023?
I believe it is my experience in both private and public sector. I can share my insights from working in investment banking across geographies and from non-profit healthcare consulting.
Tell us a fun fact that didn’t get included on your application:
I have done world’s highest bungee jump at Macau Tower!
Post-MBA career interests:
Management Consulting, Healthcare
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
– What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
The amount of research I did before applying to business schools. Every school is different in multiple aspects (values, community, curriculum, recruiting, etc.) and it’s crucial you go through their websites and talk to current students, alums, and admission advisors.
– What is one thing you would change or do differently?
Put less emphasis on the GMAT. Some of us have personal milestones when it comes to academics, but the GMAT is just one part of your application. I have seen students take multiple attempts to score way higher than the schools’ averages, which doesn’t always work. Do not invest more time in it than required. There are others areas of the application where you can expend your time.
– What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
It’s a stressful process. You may face rejections where you were most confident. But keep in mind that a rejection says nothing about your capabilities. Have faith in yourself. I was lucky to have support of my friends and family in this process that took nearly a year.
What is your initial impression of the Yale SOM students/culture/community?
It is vibrant and collaborative. I have met so many smart and caring individuals in just 2 months and excited to know more people in the community. The culture is highly conducive for personal growth while making you comfortable in group dynamics.
What is one thing you have learned about Yale SOM that has surprised you?
It must be the breadth of experiences and perspectives. Our class is one of the most diverse classes admitted to SOM.
Has the COVID-19 pandemic affected your personal application or admissions process in any way? If so, how?
I think the 2020-2021 application cycle was the most competitive ever. The number of applications went through the roof. Many students had deferred in 2020 and that affected the number of seats available for the incoming 2021 class.
I decided to diversify my applications as I wanted to start my MBA in 2021. I applied to 5+ schools in total keeping extreme competition in time. In a normal year, students don’t really go aggressive with their application strategy.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Fear of missing out. Academics, recruiting, social life – it’s not easy to balance them all and you may miss out on some things.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
There is so much to do and learn! I am excited about making new friends and about collaborating with my peers to solve business problems through concepts taught at SOM. Also looking forward to having second years back on the campus!
