From Software Novice to MBA Leader: How an MBA Enhanced My Network

“Am I good enough? Will I succeed at this new challenge?”

These questions have been constant companions on my journey. They followed me when I decided to apply for the UC Davis Part-Time MBA program.

I looked back at my career path and beyond. I had an epiphany: “I've come to expect discomfort whenever faced with a new challenge. Yet, time and again, I've persevered, conquering each obstacle that stands in my path.”

Image

Being an Emerging Leader at CGI

As I finished my engineering degree in India, I was looking at a career in software engineering, a field I had very little experience. This marked the inaugural trial of mastering the unfamiliar.

An inner desire to persist fueled a timid software developer's transformation into a senior software engineer managing a client in the U.S. within a few years.

I joined CGI, a multinational IT consulting and software development company. That experience molded my career and fostered my growth into a top-tier professional.

For more than 10 years, I was consistently challenged to push my intellectual boundaries with new technology stacks. Yet, it wasn't until I was selected for the Emerging Leaders Program at CGI that I unearthed my genuine purpose.

That program gave me a close look at what leadership means and how leaders run the organization with empathy. Also, an exchange with a colleague sparked the realization that I aspire to evolve into a leadership position.

I found my spark, which led to the question, “Who will help me achieve that?”

UC Davis: Creating Leaders for Global Impact

I wanted to continue the leadership journey that I started at CGI. Throughout my years in Sacramento, I was keenly attuned to the esteemed reputation of UC Davis and its exceptional programs.

Collaborative learning environment, world class faculty and proximity to tech world in the Bay Area were the key points that attracted me to the Graduate School of Management.

After conversations with friends who are currently pursuing their MBA at the Graduate School of Management (GSM) and the admissions team, it was clear that UC Davis was the right choice.

Initially, I considered pursuing an Online MBA for its flexibility and the convenience of accessing a wealth of knowledge right from my desk. However, my perspective shifted when I visited an in-person class during the admission process.

Experiencing the dynamic networking opportunities first-hand revealed the critical importance of personal connections in my educational journey. Consequently, I chose the hybrid in-person Sacramento Part-Time MBA program to combine the advantages of both worlds: flexibility and invaluable networking opportunities.

Becoming Proficient in Navigating Unfamiliar Territory

As I enter my third quarter at the GSM, I've been fortunate to connect with a plethora of inspiring individuals, forge meaningful friendships and immerse myself in enlightening events. These experiences have provided invaluable insights. Alumni and professionals from my target industries have graciously shared their diverse perspectives.

Leadership courses has been instrumental in refining my skills as a leader within CGI. I feel I am ready to support my leadership by helping them grow the business.

I am looking forward to stepping into executive roles with my MBA, and lead a company to make a positive impact on the world.

At the GSM, it's not solely the courses you attend that shape you into a leader; it's the wealth of extracurricular opportunities that impart invaluable lessons each day.

One such opportunity came knocking on the door in the form of leading the student association.

Image

Having been elected as the president of GSM Student Association in Sacramento (GSMSA), I find myself once again navigating uncharted waters, a continuous journey of mastering the unfamiliar. I am fortunate to be surrounded by a circle of immensely talented friends on the GSMSA board. We hope to make a positive impact on the School’s community in the coming year.

Finding the Work-Life Balance

Has it been a breeze? Not in the slightest.

Balancing my MBA studies, a full-time job, nurturing two precious daughters and providing unwavering support to my equally accomplished wife has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride. Throughout my journey until this moment, I've navigated through turbulent waters with resilience and determination.

 Every day, I propel forward with even greater strength.

If you're searching for that spark in your life or harboring even the faintest doubt about achieving something greater, take that leap of faith now and embrace the unknown.

Remember, you're capable of achieving anything you set your mind to. You've got this!