In this conversation, Michael Mancinelli (HBS '21) shares his unique journey from Denver to Harvard Business School through the prestigious 2+2 deferred admission program. As a former Harvard undergraduate who studied electrical engineering while playing Division I football, Michael offers valuable insights into how engineers can successfully position themselves for MBA admissions. He discusses his strategic decision to not immediately disclose his HBS acceptance to his aerospace employer, allowing himself to experience life as a working engineer before committing to business school.

Michael breaks down his distinctive essay approach, which eschewed traditional storytelling in favor of a structured, business case-style format that highlighted leadership lessons from college athletics. He explains how he drew on his football experience to demonstrate skills like self-evaluation, coachability, and decision-making under pressure. The conversation covers his pivot from aerospace engineering to entrepreneurship, his academic excellence as a Baker Scholar, and his current venture in sports technology with his former Harvard teammate who played in the NFL.

(0:00) Introduction to Michael Mancinelli

(3:05) Denver Upbringing and Path to Harvard

(5:35) The 2+2 Program Decision

(7:50) Redefining Success at Business School

(9:45) Discovering Entrepreneurship

(13:50) Strategic Essay Structure and Approach

(18:00) Using Real Estate Wisely in Applications

(24:50) The Confidence Mindset

(30:00) Essay Writing Process and Resources

(37:50) Advice for 2+2 Applicants

(40:30) Marriage and Business School Balance

(45:00) Startup Ventures and Career Evolution

(52:30) Current Sports Technology Company

(57:00) Rapid Fire Questions

(1:05:15) Final Words on Defining Success