Eva Dale ’25

By pursuing a dual-degree MBA at HEC Paris and MAM at Yale SOM, I have the opportunity to experience both the European and American perspectives on business, as well as two distinct educational approaches at two extraordinary institutions. To me, it’s the ideal combination. I was particularly interested in the flexibility of SOM’s programs, which allow me to explore different disciplines across Yale. I’ve taken classes on quantum mechanics, law, large language models, entrepreneurship in the art market, and even happiness.

European education tends to be significantly specialized. By the end of high school, I had to choose a specific field for my undergraduate studies and focus solely on that. I chose law and studied it for four years, which I loved, but there was little room to explore other interests that might not be directly tied to your core focus but still “feed your mind.” The MAM degree has given me the opportunity to break out of that structure, and to better understand how my mind works when given that freedom. This experience has already changed how I think, how I’ll approach my career, and how I’ll make decisions, making sure to stay curious about the world around me. Ultimately, Yale has prepared me for what comes next by shaping how I think and training me to be curious and brave when doing so. Whether you’re interested in consulting, private equity, search funds, healthcare, or something else entirely, you’ll find courses, clubs, and a strong support system at SOM.

The main quality everyone in the Yale SOM community seems to have in common is kindness. From classmates to professors to the admissions team, there’s a genuine sense of warmth and support. Being at Yale feels like a “pause in time” moment, when we’re all in this together in New Haven, and we know great things lie just ahead. I’ve noticed how much alumni miss SOM. Every time I talk to someone who has graduated, they excitedly ask, “Are you at Evans Hall right now?” You can hear the joy in their voice. Even before I arrived, alumni would tell me how much they loved their time here, and now that I’m experiencing it myself, I completely understand why. I already know that I’ll miss it.