A Goal at the Intersection of Sports, Business, and Technology

Yaniv Yatziv has found that studying at Columbia Business School takes energy and concentration, so he starts his day with exercise. "It helps me build momentum that carries through the rest of the day, making me more productive and focused," he said. Staying active for him is key to building physical and mental well-being and resilience.

When will you receive your MBA?

I will receive my MBA in May 2025.

What is your area of focus, and what was your path to pursuing graduate work at Columbia?

I am mostly interested in the intersection of sports, business, and technology, and I aim to get there in the long run. I grew up near Tel Aviv, Israel, where sports—mainly basketball, and track and field—played a central role in my life. At 19, I joined the Navy, serving for five years in a role that shaped my discipline and leadership skills.

After completing my service, I worked in a technical role in the tech industry, but realized I was more drawn to business and strategy. I enrolled at Tel Aviv University, where I majored in accounting and economics to strengthen my business acumen.

While at TAU, I noticed a gap in consulting exposure for undergraduates and founded the Tel Aviv University Consulting Club, an initiative I am proud of. After graduation, I transitioned first into consulting and then into investment banking, both of which provided me with hands-on experience in strategic planning, mergers and acquisitions, and deal-making.

Columbia Business School felt like the right next step for me. I wanted to challenge myself, expand my skill set, learn from sharp minds and diverse views, and connect with unique and talented people. At CBS, I have focused on blending technical and interpersonal skills. For example, I took courses in Operations and Marketing to expand my business knowledge, as well as Managerial Negotiations and the Leader's Voice to enhance my communication and leadership abilities.

What are some of your extracurricular activities?

At CBS, I serve as president of the Israeli Business Association, where I work with amazing classmates to showcase Israel’s innovation, culture, and opportunities. Additionally, as I mentioned, sports have always been a big part of my life. Growing up, I played competitive basketball, including one year professionally with my hometown club before joining the Navy. Today, I co-lead the CBS Basketball Club, which allows me to combine my love for sports with leadership.

I also completed an Ironman triathlon a few years ago, a milestone I cherish to this day. It was an unforgettable experience that taught me a lot about persistence and overcoming challenges. I hope to train for another one soon.

Beyond athletics, I contribute to the Hermes Society, assisting prospective students, and the Community Impact Club, focusing on initiatives like financial literacy to strengthen our community.

How do you balance athleticism with academics? 

While I no longer compete in elite sports, I aim for six training sessions a week, typically in the mornings. Starting my day with exercise helps me build momentum and energy that carries through the rest of the day, making me more productive and focused. I find that staying active is a great way to build physical well-being, socialize, and develop resilience and mental strength.

How do you like studying in New York? What are your favorite ways to spend downtime in the city?

Studying in New York has been both a transformative and reflective experience, filled with opportunities to grow, but also shaped by deep personal challenges. 

My wife and I love the city’s unmatched scale and energy. We enjoy going to Broadway shows, and checking out new restaurants and cafés. On the other hand, we also love taking it easy during the downtime, appreciating this experience. We host friends for dinners, explore Lincoln Center, walk through Central Park, and watch sunsets at Riverside Park. These moments offer a wonderful balance to the fast-paced environment.

However, the past year has been marked by significant challenges. A month into the program, a war began in my home country, Israel, weighing heavily on me. I faced an unfamiliar and deeply challenging situation. In response, I turned my focus to supporting the Columbia community, organizing memorial vigils, and representing the Jewish/Israeli community with faculty, administration, and donors. This experience, along with our shared grief and the collective healing process for the losses we experienced, has been a humbling reminder to stay connected to what truly matters.

Any recommendations for how best to enjoy New York beyond campus?

Explore the city’s endless attractions and events. Whether it is cultural festivals, unique restaurants, or live performances, you are likely to find something that resonates. Most importantly, share these experiences with people who matter to you.

Some advice you'd give an incoming Columbia student?

Make the most of your time here—it passes quickly. Know your priorities, stay open to new experiences, and push yourself out of your comfort zone to grow both personally and professionally.

What are your plans post-graduation?

Coming into CBS, I had a clear plan to return to consulting. However, my perspective has evolved. I am currently exploring two paths—continuing to build an idea I have for a company I have been working on, or joining a company focused on strategy and operations. Either way, I am excited about the opportunities ahead and the impact I hope to make.