The Next Chapter: Yonah Greenstein’s Transition from the Court to Consulting

As graduation approaches for the Class of 2024 at the University of Virginia Darden School of Business, one standout story shines brightly: Yonah Greenstein. This inspiring individual is poised to transition from his role as a nonprofit founder and basketball coach to a strategic consultant at McKinsey & Company. Greenstein’s journey exemplifies how Darden nurtures its students’ aspirations and empowers them to effect meaningful change in the world.

A look at the heart of basketball, where dreams take shape.

Growing up in New York City, Greenstein was deeply embedded in the athletic scene, with a vision of carving out a career as a college basketball coach. “My goal at that point was to be a college basketball coach because I love basketball. It consumed me, and it was very much my identity,” he reflects. However, this initial career path shifted dramatically during his time at Bard College. Through active engagement in community service as a student-athlete, he inadvertently founded a nonprofit organization, Dream To Achieve, which intertwines basketball with youth development by merging athletic pursuits with educational opportunities.

Before setting foot at Darden, Greenstein honed his skills for seven years at iMentor NYC, a national nonprofit that connects under-served students with mentors, enriching their educational journeys.

Darden: A Launchpad for Social Impact

These experiences laid the groundwork for Greenstein’s decision to pursue an MBA at Darden. He sought a member school of the Consortium for Graduate Study in Management, dedicated to promoting diversity in business education. Satisfied Darden met this criterion while being conveniently close to New York City—where his wife performs on Broadway—Greenstein explains, “Darden hit both those criteria.” The school’s intimate community and its case-study teaching methods further intrigued him, adding to its allure.

Exploring avenues of opportunity at Darden.

Transitioning to his new role at McKinsey, Greenstein carries a fervent desire to impact the educational sector profoundly. Drawing on his internship experience from the previous summer, he anticipates working in McKinsey’s Social, Healthcare, and Public Entities practice, where he aims to design initiatives that create opportunities in public and social spheres, particularly in education. “I wrote my short-term career goal essay in my Darden application about wanting to work in this practice at McKinsey. So Darden truly made my exact goal a reality,” he shares proudly.

Gratitude and Giving Back

Greenstein’s narrative is not just about personal gains; it reflects a commitment to community and gratitude. He remains grateful for the transformative experience Darden provided, which significantly shaped his personal and professional growth. His involvement in the Second Year Class Gift signifies his appreciation: “Darden changed my life. I wouldn’t have come here without the funding I got from the Oculus and Consortium Fellowships. And to be able to create that opportunity and open that door for someone else is something I’ll really cherish.”

Graduation symbolizes new beginnings and personal milestones.

A Bright Future Ahead

Greenstein’s story resonates as part of a larger narrative at Darden, where graduates are prepared to launch impactful careers. This ethos encapsulates the spirit of the school and reinforces its commitment to opening doors for future leaders. As the Class of 2024 gets ready to leave, stories like Greenstein’s pave the way for future cohorts to follow in their footsteps.

Stay tuned for more inspiring tales in our special four-part series, “What’s Next?” Explore how Darden is shaping the futures of its graduates and uncover other remarkable stories, including that of Kate Grusky—a fellow member of the Class of 2024.