Written by: Kalvin Yeung, MBA ‘24
The University at Buffalo’s MBA Consulting Group is a standout example of applied learning and community engagement in business education. This student-led organization provides a unique platform for members to apply their skills to real-world challenges, particularly through strategic pro-bono consulting projects that support local businesses in Western New York.
The group’s focus on pro-bono work underscores a commitment to community service beyond financial gains. Members, consisting of talented MBA students, collaborate with local businesses to address specific challenges, devise strategic solutions, and drive positive change, emphasizing the broader impact of business expertise on societal well-being.
The group is open to all UB MBA students, regardless of their concentration or level of consulting experience. The projects are completed in teams and the project teams are formed through a collaborative process that prioritizes member preferences. Each member of the group submits their top choices. The executive board members then utilize this input to thoughtfully curate teams, ensuring a balance of skills, interests and expertise across each project group. This approach fosters a sense of ownership and investment among members, as they can contribute to projects aligned with their passions and strengths.
As a member of the UB MBA Consulting Group, I experienced a transformative learning process that extended beyond the classroom. Engaging in pro-bono projects for Western New York businesses allowed practical application of theoretical knowledge, deepening my understanding of business dynamics. However, the most rewarding aspect of my involvement was the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the growth of local businesses.
During the first semester as a member of the group, I actively contributed to the development of a robust internship program and an effective recruitment strategy for a local Buffalo business. It was important for that business to convey their brand/goal in a strong manner in order to attract the right talent, and company culture was a very important aspect. With this focus in mind, my team meticulously crafted an internship handbook, devised a comprehensive recruitment strategy and crafted a detailed “candidate persona” to ensure alignment with the company’s values and aspirations.
In my second semester, I played a pivotal role in enhancing the operational efficiency and customer appeal of a local pharmacy. Our objective was to optimize the store layout and introduce a non-alcoholic drink bar to amplify customer engagement and bolster revenue streams. Conducting a thorough site visit, our team conducted a traffic flow analysis to pinpoint high-traffic areas within the store. Leveraging these insights, we strategically determined the optimal placement for the drink bar, ensuring maximum visibility and accessibility to attract and cater to customer preferences effectively.
The UB MBA Consulting Group’s dedication to pro-bono projects in Western New York showcases how business education can extend beyond theory. By bridging academic knowledge with practical application, the group equips members with valuable skills and serves as a catalyst for positive change in the community. My tenure with the UB MBA Consulting Group has been professionally enriching, opening doors to opportunities and experiences that have shaped me into a more capable and socially conscious business professional.
Bio: Kalvin is a Buffalo native and earned his Bachelor’s degree from the University at Buffalo concentrating in marketing and international business. He decided to pursue his MBA degree to focus on the analytical side of marketing to further prepare himself for a full-time position. During his undergraduate program, Kalvin worked as a part-time server, which led to his passion for creating memorable experiences with food. This passion led to an internship with Rich Products.
In his free time, Kalvin spends a lot of time at the gym. He believes that physical health is essential to one’s success, not just professionally but personally as well. He also enjoys spending time with his friends and family, trying out new places to eat and traveling.
Photo credit: Tom Wolf