Wendy Opoku ’26

I’m originally from Ghana, where I worked in investment and portfolio management for seven years. I always knew I wanted to explore other career paths, and I was drawn to the U.S. and schools like Yale SOM because of the opportunity to gain global perspectives. Through my research, I found that consulting aligned well with my goals, and SOM showed a strong track record of placement in this industry.

I ultimately chose SOM for the supportive community I experienced from the start. At a Yale alumni event in Ghana, where admits were also invited, I got to know the community—and it felt like a place that could be home.

In business school, and at SOM specifically, consulting recruiting is very structured. The Career Development Office has strong relationships with all the major firms—and SOM is a target school for these firms—so they come directly to campus. This makes it easy to be seen, connect with recruiters, and navigate the recruiting process.

The Consulting Club was a particularly valuable resource for me. Last year, recruiting was my top priority, and my second-year case team leader covered everything I’d need to know about interviews and the industry. His support inspired me to volunteer as a case team leader this year. I’m hoping I can give first-years a similar experience.

I’m also involved with Women in Management, where I lead alumni relations and professional development. We host panels with second-years, who can speak to the recruiting process, as well as alumni sessions. One of my favorite panelists was Lise Chapman ’81, one of the first women to work on Wall Street. She spoke about her career trajectory and the challenges she encountered along the way, which was really inspiring for all of us.

At the Africa Business & Society Club, I lead community growth initiatives. I connect with prospective African students and help build community for current students who are far from home.

The SOM community is so diverse. I’ve been able to make friends with people who don’t necessarily think like me—who have expertise in different fields and grew up in different parts of the world. It’s also been special to participate in different cultural activities on campus, like Diwali and Food Around the World.

My time at SOM has broadened my perspective and changed how I see the world. I’m definitely not the same person I was before coming here.