Philippe Simon, Carnegie Mellon Tepper MBA Class of 2026
Age: 35
Hometown: Providence, RI
Undergraduate Institution and Major: St. John’s University, Accounting
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Wells Fargo & Company (2.5 years), Regions Bank (2 years), Warner Brothers Discovery (6 years)
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
After working in various capacities across finance in commercial lending and in media/entertainment, I realized the importance of deep analytical skills and effective strategic thinking in driving growth and leading large-scale initiatives. I decided to pursue an MBA to strengthen my financial acumen, sharpen my leadership skills, and embrace growth through discomfort to facilitate the next steps in my professional journey.
Why did you choose Carnegie Mellon Tepper? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose the Tepper School of Business because of its smaller intimate class size, strong quantitative focus and emphasis on leadership development. Being further removed from schooling, it was important to align myself with a program that will truly fortify my technical skills. I was also encouraged by the enthusiasm and candor displayed by the Tepper School students and alumni. It genuinely is a tight-knit community.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the CMU Tepper Class of 2026?
My diverse background in finance and media, and my leadership experience with local community organizations will enable me to bring a unique perspective to classroom discourse and group projects.
I’m also a personable and energetic fellow. I will actively engage with my classmates, celebrate their unique backgrounds, and encourage collaboration.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your CMU Tepper Class of 2026 application:
I love to dance! If I’m feeling the music, you’ll see me on the dance floor.
Post-MBA career interests:
Looking ahead, I plan to advance my career by transitioning into Investment Banking. This step aligns with my commitment to ongoing professional growth and leverages my accumulated skills and experiences.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Definitely get a sense of each program’s culture by connecting with current students and alumni. Also, connect with those who are pursuing or already in your desired post-MBA function. I found those conversations particularly consequential in my decision-making process.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
Don’t suffer in silence. I dealt with “imposter syndrome” that delayed my eventual matriculation into an MBA program so I would encourage all to follow through with the process, speak up when discouraged, and accept the verbal and emotional support from their inner circle.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Honestly, none of it. Embrace the process and seek the support of others. Don’t suffer in silence. Give yourself grace but don’t live with excuses.
What is your initial impression of the Carnegie Mellon Tepper students/culture/community?
I’ve been impressed by the diversity of experiences of the student body that has already shown itself in some of the early group projects. The community here has been very welcoming. The students are driven but aim to support each other in whatever capacity they can.
What is one thing you have learned about Carnegie Mellon Tepper that has surprised you?
How thorough and intentional the Graduate Finance Association is in preparing 1st Year MBA students for fall recruiting in Finance! Also, you will leave your time here at the Tepper School being able to persuasively present to decision makers with the effective strategies practiced in the classroom.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Managing my time effectively as one has to balance academics, recruiting, club involvement, and whatever is demanded in their personal life. I want to make the most out of my time at the Tepper School, but want to ensure I accomplish what I have set out to do.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Interacting with my classmates, faculty, and staff at the Tepper school. I also plan on getting involved in the diversity admission initiatives. Representation matters.
