Real Humans of the Yale School of Management MBA Class of 2025

Timothy Mamrol, Yale School of Management MBA Class of 2025

Age: 29
Hometown: Philadelphia, PA
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Temple University, Political Science
Pre-MBA Work Experience (role, company, years): US Army (Infantry) 3 years, US Army Reserve (Civil Affairs) 7 Years, United States Liability Insurance (Policy Issuance) 3 years

Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
From my previous work experience, I’ve had many great opportunities to gain leadership experience and work abroad, but something I’ve lacked is a solid education in business fundamentals. After exploring all my options, I felt an MBA would be the best way to get me up to speed and on track with where I’d like to be. I took some time off for myself, and now I’m here at Yale.

Why did you choose Yale SOM? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
The Yale SOM students and alums I spoke to during the admission process greatly impacted my final decision. There are a lot of great schools out there, but the individuals from Yale SOM I had interacted with made a distinct impression on me with how genuine and outgoing they are. I also wanted to attend a school in an area with lots to do, and New Haven fit the bill!

What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Yale School of Management Class of 2025?
Probably the perspectives I gained from my time in the Army. Veterans are well represented at Yale SOM, and we’ve all had diverse experiences during our military service. The insights I bring to the classroom are informed by the time I’ve spent working throughout Europe and Africa and my time enlisted in the Infantry and Civil Affairs.

Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
My first car was a 1967 Chevy Corvair that was only held together by rust and bondo.

Post-MBA career interests:
I’m currently recruiting for consulting. Consulting offers unparalleled exposure to a variety of industries. I believe consulting will also provide me with the most opportunities to continue building out my skillset while working on projects I find engaging.

Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Take advantage of admissions events to speak with current Yale SOM students. There are many events, including ones catering to various affinity groups, such as weekly Q&A sessions put on by the Veterans Club for prospective applicants. Events like those are an excellent opportunity to get to know the school and ask any questions that might be on your mind.

–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
Do more research into post-MBA careers early on. Recruiting starts shortly after you arrive on campus, and many employers will have events over the summer before classes start. Knowing what industries or roles you are interested in will help you articulate your goals during the admissions process and hit the ground running once you are admitted.

–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I would have skipped stressing out while waiting to hear if I had been accepted. Talk it out with friends or family, go for a walk, stay active. At a certain point, you’ve done everything you can, and there’s no point pulling your hair out. 

What is your initial impression of the Yale SOM students/culture/community?
My classmates all have very successful backgrounds, and at first, I did feel like an imposter, but Yale SOM does have a very inclusive and welcoming culture. My classmates are just as nice as they are accomplished, and I do feel that I belong here.

What is one thing you have learned about Yale SOM that has surprised you?
There is tutoring available to anyone who feels they need it for all the core classes. I’ve found it to be very helpful to keep me on track, and it’s been a fantastic source of support.

What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Whether using my time wisely. It’s a challenge to balance recruiting, academics, and socializing. There are constantly interesting events happening, and it is impossible to go to all of them. I have chronic FOMO. 

What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Heidi! Heidi is the Yale Public Safety service dog, and it makes my day every time she stops by Evans Hall. She’s adorable.