Margo Malone, Rochester Simon Business School MBA Class of 2026
Age: 30
Hometown: Pittsburgh, PA
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Syracuse University, Biology
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Prior to Simon, I worked in early-stage healthcare investing at UPMC Enterprises and as a project manager at a medical device start-up company. Prior to those four years, my career path had an unconventional start as I pursued professional running post collegiately for Adidas and On Running.
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I decided to attend business school because I wanted to expand my knowledge in business, finance, and analytics. I was a pre-med biology major in college and have always loved science and medicine. I think having the unique combination of science and business will make me more impactful in the healthcare industry. In addition, I am interested in leadership roles in the future.
Why did you choose Rochester Simon? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
The choice to pursue my MBA at Simon felt like a natural fit for me, both personally and professionally. My husband attended the University of Rochester for his undergrad and always spoke highly of the school and the Rochester area. His experience planted a seed of curiosity in me, but my true introduction to Simon came through the Simon Games, a business simulation competition that challenges participants to make strategic decisions aimed at improving a company’s performance with a full-tuition scholarship as the top prize.
After qualifying as a finalist, I traveled to campus for the first time to compete for the scholarship. From the moment I arrived, I was struck by how warm and welcoming the Simon team was. The competition itself was an incredible experience, but what really sold me was everything else they did during that weekend: tours of the school and the Rochester area, a deep dive into the curriculum, and just an overall vibe that felt right. By the end of the weekend, I knew Simon was the next step not just for my career but also for my family.
One of the most important factors in my decision was the incredible support and flexibility I received from the admissions team and faculty. With my first baby due in June 2024, the timing to start school in July seemed impossible to manage. But Simon’s team went above and beyond to help me rearrange my schedule and make it all work. They turned what I thought might be a deal-breaker into an amazing opportunity to balance both family and school. I’m incredibly grateful to Simon for allowing me to grow both as a professional and as a mom. Starting business school while starting a family—it doesn’t get much more exciting than that!
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2026?
I believe my most valuable contribution to the Class of 2026 is comes from the combination of my professional background and personal experiences. Having worked in healthcare and been involved in company creation, I look forward to sharing these lessons with my classmates.
Additionally, as a former student-athlete, I’ve had to master time management and how to balance a healthy lifestyle. I’m excited to share strategies for managing stress and handling the workload of business school.
Beyond academics, I aim to contribute to the positive energy and supportive atmosphere that makes Simon so special. I look forward to building strong connections within the class, offering encouragement, and helping to grow the Simon network by sharing my experiences with future students.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I qualified for the 2020 Olympic trials and have won two marathons—the 2019 Zurich Marathon and the 2023 Pittsburgh Marathon.
Post-MBA career interests:
Post-MBA, I am eager to explore roles that align with my passion for both healthcare and business strategy, where I can apply my knowledge to improve patient outcomes and drive innovation. I am particularly interested in healthcare consulting, internal strategy roles at pharmaceutical companies, and venture capital. I am specifically interested in firms focused on women’s health—an area that is traditionally underfunded with huge opportunity for growth.
In addition, I am interested in product management or business strategy within the sports retail sector that combines my passion for athletics with my strategic skillset.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I would absolutely recommend participating the Simon Games and connecting with alumni to learn more about Simon.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would have started the business school application process a little earlier.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I thought Simon did a great job at making the application process and admission decision straightforward and easy so there isn’t anything I would say is necessary to skip. If anything, remember to be confident in your decision and not worry about too many outside opinions on going back to school.
What is your initial impression of the Rochester Simon MBA students/culture/community?
The Simon student culture brings together many diverse backgrounds and perspectives. So far it has been a supportive environment and lots of fun!
What is one thing you have learned about Simon that has surprised you?
One thing that has pleasantly surprised me about Simon is the incredible support from the Benet Career Management Center. From the very beginning, they’ve been instrumental in helping with the internship and job search process. I was initially surprised by how early MBA students are encouraged to start thinking about their summer internships, but thanks to the guidance and resources provided by the Simon team, I feel fully supported and prepared to secure a great opportunity.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Finding time to study with a new baby at home. 😊
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am most excited to explore different career paths and begin unlocking the incredible opportunities that a Simon MBA can offer. Also to explore the amazing parks and restaurants around the Rochester area!
