Olivier Richer ’21

Applying to the GBS program, I had two main goals in mind. I wanted my education to provide me with the tools and skills necessary for both short- and long-term professional success, and I wanted to attend an institution that would broaden my understanding of how businesses—and I—can contribute to society. Yale SOM’s positioning as an institution, and its mission to educate leaders for business and society, matched my values, and I was excited to meet people who felt the same way.

I really benefited from the GBS program’s flexible curriculum model, which allows students to carve out their own paths. I loved that I was able to take useful, technical classes on corporate finance and managerial controls, while also learning about global business dynamics, social mobility, and sustainable operations. Yale has allowed me to paint a clearer picture of the different paths my career could take. My experience at Yale helped me refine my values, as a professional and an individual, and it opened doors to roles and industries that aligned with my aspirations.

Even in a year of lockdown, the Yale SOM community is still what feels most precious about my experience here. Both in and out of the classroom, I’ve felt heard and supported by peers and faculty—not to mention the stimulation and intellectual challenges we’ve shared.

I’ve been most surprised at how open and accessible faculty members are to students. More than once, I’ve been amazed at how world-renowned experts would offer their time to personally answer my questions, discuss relevant news events, or give me career advice.