Reflections on My First Months at Yale SOM
Jaryd Raizon ’25, a student in the MAM program, reflects on a first semester filled with new friendships, rigorous classwork, and global travel opportunities.
Hometown: Harare, Zimbabwe
Pronouns: he/him/his
How did you feel when you arrived on campus for the first time?
It was a moment that left me in awe. Coming from a small business school at the southern tip of Africa, I felt immensely privileged to have had access to great resources, but Yale was on an entirely different level. The sheer access to information, networks, and opportunities is something you can almost feel the moment you step on campus. The programs and facilities here are beyond what I had imagined, and it’s made me realize just how transformative this experience will be.
I found myself pinching myself on day one, and to be honest, I still do. It’s an overwhelming feeling of excitement and gratitude to be surrounded by some of the world’s most brilliant minds and to have access to resources that will undoubtedly shape my future.
What has been your favorite experience at Yale SOM so far?
Without a doubt, it’s been the social connections. Before coming to Yale, I’d been told I’d need to find a balance between academics, recruiting, and social life. Having just completed an intense academic year in my MBA, I made a conscious decision to lean into the social side and truly connect with my peers here at the business school. While the academic load has kept me busy, the moments of respite—whether at McNay Café, Commons Dining Hall, Gryphon’s Pub, or even a house party—have added a layer of joy to the experience.
What are you most looking forward to this fall?
There’s so much to look forward to! This fall, I’m honored to serve as an ambassador for Global Network Week at SOM, where I’ll spend five days with 60 students from 22 different business schools—an incredible opportunity to learn from diverse perspectives. A few weeks later, I’ll be heading to Boston to watch the iconic Yale vs. Harvard football game, and after that, I’ll fly to Los Angeles to spend Thanksgiving with my family. It’s going to be an intense period with coursework and exams, but these moments of fun and connection are keeping me excited for the term ahead!
