Shyla Hönigschmid-DeVeaux

“Strategic leader driving impact through mission-driven businesses focused on sustainable fashion, wellness, and underrepresented talent”

Class / Grad Year: 2022

Current Employer / Role: Director, Diversity Project Pathway Programme; Founder and Creative Director, Misto Denim; Career-Pivot Advisor

Is this the industry and role you envisioned yourself in upon entering the program?

Not exactly and, at the same time, yes. My immediate goal was to move into an investment seat, which I did. Upon graduating, I returned to JPMorgan as a Portfolio Manager in their Multi-Asset Solutions division. I stayed for two years and my long-term goals started calling – helping the next generation craft a successful career in the investment industry and pursuing two ventures I’d been sitting on for a while: a sustainable premium denim brand for curvy women and a fertility health / family planning platform. I am now fulfilling those dreams: having joined Diversity Project as Director of the Pathway Programme, a 12-month learning development program for aspiring leaders in the investment industry, I am making a direct impact on next generation talent; and I will be launching Misto Denim in fall 2025 and a women’s health platform in 2026!

Why was HEC Paris and their MBA program the right fit for you among all of the options out there?

I chose HEC for three reasons: the strength of their international alumni network, location outside of the US, and their entrepreneurship programme. As someone focused on leaving the US, pursuing an MBA at a highly regarded international university was paramount, followed by a strong international alumni network, given my network was primarily US based. HEC met the criteria and I’d have the opportunity to live in Paris for a time. It was more than evident this was the correct choice.

How has the program helped you grow personally or professionally since graduating?

The programme provided me with the confidence to pursue my dreams. Surrounded by so many talented individuals with clear motivations, the programme reminded me that anything is truly possible through preparation and dedication to one’s success. Following the programme, I was more certain then ever in my ability to not only succeed but lead.

What’s a standout moment or memory from your time at HEC Paris that really stuck with you?

There isn’t one standout memory, rather a series of them that shaped my experience then and now: the people I met, and friendships formed that remain to this day.

How did you balance your work/school/home life during your degree? What were the biggest challenges?

Attending a full-time programme made balancing life quite simple. My primary focus was always the programme and immersing myself in as many experiences that appealed to me as possible.

What are some of the biggest takeaways or skills you gained from the MBA experience?

The biggest takeaway I had was knowing I made exactly the right choice. If I had to do it over again, I would always decide to do the MBA. It was the second greatest catalyst in my career. The first being confidence in my self and self-worth.

What is your advice for those who are considering applying to the HEC Paris MBA program?

For those considering: think carefully about your motivations and how the programme will fit into your envisioned future. If you happen to be vacillating between applying or not, apply! This is an experience that can be truly life changing and set you on an exceptional course forward.

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