Kevin Mellado ’25

During my MBA, I came to SOM for Global Network Week and loved learning from world-class professors, collaborating with brilliant peers from around the globe, and experiencing such a vibrant and intellectually stimulating environment. The engaging community left a lasting impression, inspiring me to return for my Master of Advanced Management.

I chose the MAM degree for its global, interdisciplinary approach to business education. The program’s highly personalized structure has allowed me to map a learning journey not only within SOM, but also across Yale’s broader academic ecosystem. This flexibility has let me move beyond my technical background to focus on adding the strategic and managerial skills necessary to lead in complex times.

The course Mastering Influence and Persuasion, taught by Professor Zoe Chance, was an incredibly enlightening and transformative course that challenged many of my existing paradigms. It provided a deep understanding of the psychology behind influence, giving me practical strategies to communicate more effectively, build stronger relationships, and drive meaningful change.

The Everyday Leadership course with Heidi Brooks was equally impactful, as it delved into the fundamental behaviors that define true leadership. Rather than focusing solely on authority or position, the course emphasized the importance of self-awareness, authenticity, and the ability to empower others. It reinforced that leadership is not about titles but about the small, consistent actions that inspire and motivate people.

At Yale, I’ve been able to combine my technical background in operations with the strategic skills necessary to transition into a product management role. Through a carefully curated curriculum focused on strategic thinking, consumer behavior, and leadership, I’ve developed a more holistic understanding of business decision-making and product development.

Beyond the coursework, the vast Yale network has also been instrumental in shaping my career transition. Alumni from diverse industries and companies have been incredibly open to sharing insights, experiences, and practical advice, helping me gain a clearer perspective on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.