Michael D’Alimonte, Rotman MBA Class of 2026
Age: 33
Hometown: Toronto, ON
Undergraduate Institution and Major: McGill University, Double Major, English Literature & Religious Studies
Pre-MBA Work Experience: CTV News – anchor, reporter-producer (6 years), Narcity Media – senior staff writer (3 years)
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
Job security is far from certainty in the Canadian journalism industry, and I saw numerous colleagues lose their positions because of budget cuts. After one major round of layoffs at CTV News, I decided I needed to transition into a new industry, and thought an MBA would be a great way to do so. Good thing, too, because my own position got cut only a few months later!
Why did you choose Toronto Rotman? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Toronto is home, so that was a major factor in applying to Rotman, especially after spending the better part of 7 years in other Canadian cities working as a journalist. Rotman, however, did appeal to me for reasons beyond simple geography. Knowing that Rotman prioritized a diversity of professional backgrounds, and even emphasized skill development in interpersonal communication, one of my personal strengths, I thought it would make for a good fit.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2026?
This might sound silly, but I’m very good at asking questions. Go figure, since I had years of practice as a journalist, where the main job is asking the right questions. I like to think I ask the questions on everyone else’s mind, but they may be too shy to ask. Or, at the least, I know I’m asking questions loudly enough for the whole class to hear (I apologize for anyone sitting directly in front of me).
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I am a very avid baker, and (at least my friends tell me) I make some pretty delicious creations. The comfort in following a set recipe, like making sourdough, can be incredibly relaxing. But I also love experimenting with processes to create a new flavour or texture. If you need tips on how to make a better pie, I’ve got more than a few.
Post-MBA career interests:
While I’m trying to keep my options (and interests) open, I’m definitely interested in a possible career in consulting. I would also love to leverage my background in broadcast journalism by pursuing a career in media management or advertising.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I loved the video essay portion of the application. Not a huge surprise since I’m used to being on television, but I appreciated the chance to showcase a talent (presentation, elocution) that doesn’t come through in the written word.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I was very set on Rotman as my one MBA program, to the point that I didn’t apply anywhere else. Obviously the bet paid off, and I’m so glad, but it would have been interesting to see what other institutions may have been an option.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Probably the GMAT in all honesty. Coming from a humanities academic background, and working years in the journalism space, I wasn’t coming into the GMAT’s quantitative portion with a lot of recent experience. That being said, I always love a challenge, and getting to work some mental muscles I haven’t used in years was actually a fun experience. Keeping in mind that any work I put into the GMAT would benefit me during the program also helped keep me focused.
What is your initial impression of the Toronto Rotman students/culture/community?
I have been so impressed with the diversity of the Rotman community and my own cohort. I didn’t really know how many local or international students I would be classmates with, and I think it’s so cool and exciting to be able to interact with a truly global community.
What is one thing you have learned about Toronto Rotman that has surprised you?
I had no idea one of the official colours was pink! I love pink. I own a neon pink sweater that’s now my unofficial Rotman jersey.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Not getting enough sleep! I know how important proper sleep is (especially once you’re over 30), and I’m always worried I won’t get enough sleep while still doing all of my coursework, maintaining a social life and going to the gym. Now that we’re a goods stretch into the program, I know that you can do it all… you just have to be very good at time management.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Learning about all of the professional opportunities and companies in the Rotman network available to Rotman students is truly exciting. Maybe that’s a boring or oft-used answer, but, after being siloed in the journalism ‘biz for nearly a decade, where new career opportunities are few and far between, it’s exciting to see all of the career paths that are available to me.
