Yohei Shimasaki

Yohei Shimasaki

Hometown: Demarest, New Jersey
Undergraduate School: Dickinson College, Carlisle, PA

I am capable of more than I imagined. The professors and classmates have pushed me to be better.

What is the residential session all about?

Relationship building. Connecting to the Cornell campus, getting to know other professors that can’t make it to the Palisades[the former location of the program], connecting even more with your classmates, and networking with other students on campus.

Name one must-do thing when you’re in Ithaca

Enjoy the Cornell ice cream!

How do you strike a balance between school, work, and family?

I keep juggling and really relying on my family and classmates. I can’t do everything myself—I rely heavily on my family and friends for support, including grocery shopping or arranging dinner plans, just to name a few, and also classmates have really been a necessary support team. We are all going through the experience together and easily relate and connect to one another. As a team, we help each other out and step in to support whenever necessary.

Favorite class or elective?

Critical Thinking was my favorite class. Professor Risa Mish was amazing, and the class really broadened my way of thinking.

Favorite way to let off steam and unwind?

Boxing. Hitting the heavy bag releases stress, followed by a nice drink.

What have you learned about yourself from being in the EMBA program?

I am capable of more than I imagined. The professors and classmates have pushed me to be better.

What has surprised you most about Cornell, and specifically the program you are in?

How much I’m enjoying the program. Before starting, I knew I would learn a lot. I anticipated the material was going to be good. What surprised me the most was how much I’m enjoying the process and also how close I have become with my classmates.

What do you look forward to most when returning home on Sundays?

Sleep, and seeing my family and friends.

After graduation, what will you miss most?

My classmates and not being able to see them as much as I do now. I know we will stay in touch, but it won’t be the same.