From my earlier experiences as a civil engineer, I have always gravitated toward roles that challenge me to think critically, adapt, and deliver within highly complex environments. Working on large-scale infrastructure projects was not just a job but a career that immersed me in the heart of construction management, design integration, and team leadership. These formative years honed my ability to manage intricate details while keeping the larger picture in focus.
However, after five years in the industry and achieving a chartership with the Institution of Civil Engineers, I reached a point where I wanted to pivot. The desire to expand beyond technical expertise and engage with broader strategic and business challenges motivated me to apply to the IMD MBA program. I wanted to position myself at the intersection of my technical background and gain a deeper understanding of business dynamics. The timing felt right and IMD’s reputation for fostering global leadership and delivering an intense, high-impact learning environment made it my natural choice.
Reflecting on my time at IMD, the MBA program has been transformative in ways I couldn’t have anticipated. While the classroom teachings in finance, marketing, and strategy provided a solid intellectual foundation, it was the interactions with my peers that proved to be the most enriching. My classmates come from a multitude of industries, cultures, and experiences, and together, I’ve tackled everything from startup challenges – like working with Irmos Technologies on structural health monitoring solutions – to the technical complexities of International Consulting Projects (ICP).
One of the most significant learnings has been the value of working in diverse teams. Each project, debate, and collaboration with my peers has sharpened my ability to navigate different perspectives while staying focused on shared goals. The bonds we’ve built, forged through long nights, hard decisions, and shared triumphs, are something that I will treasure for the rest of my life.
The internship with Wipro over the summer brought many of these lessons into a practical, professional setting. As a BFSI consultant, I was immersed in the world of financial services and technology – a stark contrast to my engineering roots. Seeing how the tools and frameworks from the MBA could be applied to solve real-world problems was an “a-ha” moment for me. It cemented my belief that transitioning into roles where I can blend analytical rigor with strategic insight is where my strengths truly lie.
As graduation draws near, I find myself both reflecting on the past and eagerly anticipating the future. These final weeks offer a unique chance to delve into areas I have yet to fully explore. To make the most of this time, I’ve deliberately selected electives that challenge me to step outside my comfort zone. Courses like geopolitics with Professor Ralf Boscheck broadened my understanding of how national identities shape global values, while reflective sessions with Susan Goldsworthy and Silke Mischke encouraged me to reevaluate how I tackle challenges and ensure my professional goals align with my values. These experiences have been instrumental in reshaping my perspectives and preparing me for the next phase of my journey.
Ultimately, by graduation, my goal is to confidently into my next chapter. While leaving IMD will be bittersweet, I’m walking away with a renewed sense of purpose, an expanded toolkit, and a network of exceptional individuals who will remain lifelong friends. Whether leading projects in the construction sector, exploring opportunities in global product management or tackling business development challenges, I hope to apply the lessons I’ve learned to create impact in meaningful ways.
