Georgia Tech Scheller College of Business students come to learn, explore, and build community. As they move forward in their careers, they take everything they've learned and use it to power innovation in industries and businesses across the globe. In celebration of Spring 2024 Commencement, we sat down with a few students to learn about their experiences and the wisdom they've gained in the process.
Meet Rahul Mishra, who is graduating from the Full-time MBA program.
Hometown:
Bareilly, UP India
Undergraduate School and Degree:
Dr APJ Abdul Kalam University, Bachelor of Technology in Computer Science and Engineering
Describe yourself in 15 words or less:
Embracing kindness and hope, I strive to uplift others and foster positive connections in life.
Where was the last place you worked before enrolling in business school?
Before joining Scheller, I was working for my startup as the co-founder and COO of Folkse, an indigenous handicraft startup specializing in eco-friendly home and office organizers crafted from rattan. Nestled in the artisan-rich city of Bareilly, renowned for its skilled rattan and bamboo craftsmen, our venture successfully served customers both in India and internationally.
I take pride in highlighting our dedication to several UN Sustainable Development Goals. Folkse's endeavors are aligned with these goals as we actively promote the creation and use of sustainable products. Additionally, our commitment to minimizing plastic usage in homes and offices contributes to addressing climate action by mitigating environmental impact. Lastly, through the empowerment of local artisans, we foster economic opportunities and inclusivity within our community, supporting broader social and economic goals.
What achievement are you most proud of in your professional career?
In my professional journey, a standout achievement is leading the Google WiFi project in India. This initiative was a game-changer, providing high-speed WiFi to millions of Indians across 400+ railway stations, smart cities, and tourism sites. Working closely with Google and the Indian government, my team successfully established the largest WiFi network at railway stations in India.
Being at the forefront of this impactful transformation was deeply rewarding. Beyond enhancing internet access nationwide, it emphasized how collaborations between the public and private sectors can create meaningful change. This accomplishment serves as a tangible example of the positive impact that technology and teamwork can have on communities, fitting seamlessly into the broader goals of Digital India.
Moreover, the work was recognized as a high-impact narrative and featured prominently in Google For India events for four consecutive years (2016-2019), highlighting the enduring significance and positive reception of the project.
Why did you choose Scheller?
I was initially drawn to Georgia Tech Scheller College of Business by its comprehensive supply chain and operations curriculum, aligning seamlessly with my passion for managing large-scale operations. The strong emphasis on building a close-knit community, where everyone knows each other, offered a personalized and engaging environment.
Additionally, during my orientation, I immersed myself in the vibrant culture and dynamics of Atlanta, which further underscored my decision to join Scheller and live in Atlanta. I found the city's offerings, both professionally and personally, captivating. Being on the East coast perfectly matched my preferences. In essence, everything harmoniously fell into place, making Georgia Tech Scheller College of Business the ideal choice for my MBA journey.
Community work and leadership roles at Scheller:
- Featured in "Humans of Scheller”: Nominated by Scheller’s program office for inclusion in "Humans of Scheller." This acknowledgment reflects the impact and contributions I've brought to the Scheller community. It offers a platform to share my distinct perspective and experiences with a broader audience.
- Co-Chair International Committee: As the co-chair of the International Committee, I've organized various events such as international food nights, potlucks, and movie nights to bring our Scheller community together. I took the lead in orchestrating Diwali, the biggest diverse event at Scheller in 2023, emphasizing my dedication to cultivating a vibrant and inclusive community. The success of Diwali underscored my commitment to fostering cultural celebration and inclusivity within the Scheller community.
- Co-President, Entrepreneurship Club: Through initiatives like Scheller Shark Tank and Beers & Big Ideas, E-club provided a stage for budding entrepreneurs to present their innovations. This endeavor not only contributed to nurturing an entrepreneurial spirit but also cultivated a culture of creativity throughout the Scheller community.
- Co-President, Operations Club: I organized various activities like networking sessions, company treks, and operations simulation case events which aimed to help students better understand and excel in operations management, making their academic journey more enriching and creating a dynamic learning environment.
- MBA Ambassador and Student Interviewer: As an MBA ambassador and student interviewer, I really enjoyed expressing my passion for Scheller in various ways, like being on panels and having coffee chats. This gave me the chance to share my great experiences and explain how meaningful my time at Scheller has been. Being a student interviewer also allowed me to learn about the unique stories of prospective students, helping Scheller choose the most unique and vibrant individuals for the upcoming cohort.
- Peer Mentor: Guiding first-year students through classes, internship searches, and life challenges, I leveraged my lived experiences to create a supportive environment, contributing to a smooth transition into the program.
- Graduate Research Assistantship with DEI Council: Spearheaded impactful diversity events, including Diwali, food nights, and international celebrations, while collaborating closely with Scheller's director of inclusive excellence Tonya Parker on shaping Scheller's DEI charter and initiatives and fostering an inclusive and diverse environment.
- Graduate Research Assistant: Under the guidance of Scheller’s former Dean Dr. Maryam Alavi, I delved into researching the impact of AI on business. However, beyond the academic focus, the most intriguing aspect of this experience was gaining invaluable insights from Dr. Alavi on life, navigating business school, and shaping a successful career. Her mentorship provided a unique perspective, particularly on leading large teams and working towards impactful outcomes. This experience went beyond the confines of research, offering a holistic understanding of the dynamics within business and academia.
Which academic or extracurricular achievement are you most proud of during your time at Scheller?
I take great pride in my position as co-chair of the International Committee, particularly for spearheading the organization of Diwali, the most significant diverse event at Scheller in 2023, marking its return after a gap of three years. This accomplishment has enabled me to promote cultural celebration and inclusivity within the Scheller community.
Working closely with Executive and Evening MBA students, we ensured diverse representation, bringing people together to celebrate diversity and contribute to the creation of a vibrant and welcoming community at Scheller. The impact of these efforts is evident in the positive and lasting changes within our campus environment.
Who was your favorite MBA professor?
My top pick for an MBA professor is Professor Karthik Ramachandran, who leads the Collaborative Product Development course. He brought learning to life by using real-life examples, making the experience truly enjoyable. In every class, whether we were diving into cases or understanding concepts, he encouraged us to think creatively.
His approach to teaching us how to address real-world issues with practical solutions in our course project left a lasting impression. I found his class genuinely engaging, and I enthusiastically suggest others to take it. His course project, where we identify and solve a real-world problem, is particularly noteworthy. I have a deep appreciation for his course and highly recommend it to fellow students.
What was your favorite course as an MBA?
One of my standout courses during my MBA was Negotiation and Conflict Resolution. Its real-world applicability was a game-changer, providing me with skills that went beyond the classroom. Learning negotiation strategies, effective communication, and conflict resolution techniques not only enhanced my ability to handle business conflicts but also proved invaluable in day-to-day interactions.
The practical skills acquired from the course played a crucial role in negotiating with multiple stakeholders during events I organized for my clubs and committees. The course's interactive approach, featuring role-playing and simulations, allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge in a hands-on manner, deepening my understanding and boosting my confidence in navigating complex negotiations.
What was your favorite MBA event or tradition at Scheller?
I loved the “Ringing the Bell” ceremony at the Scheller College of Business! Each semester, the Jones MBA Career Center organizes it to celebrate students getting internships or job offers. Imagine a big bell in the atrium, plus donuts, coffee, and classmates cheering loudly. It's my favorite because I get to support my humble yet awe-inspiring classmates and make noise to celebrate their achievements. This tradition really shows how supportive our community is and how we find joy in each other's success.
What is the biggest myth about Scheller?
When I talk to my friends and colleagues about being a part of Georgia Tech, they often assume it's all about the school's renowned engineering program and a strict focus on technology. They usually have this expectation of me heading into the tech industry. However, the reality is quite different. Yes, Georgia Tech has a strong engineering program, but pursuing an MBA here doesn't mean you have to be an engineer or a tech expert. Many of my fellow classmates come from diverse backgrounds with a wide range of career aspirations.
While we do have exceptional tech talent, the program spans across various domains, from consulting to non-profits, venture capital, operations, and more. It provides a well-rounded and comprehensive education that goes beyond the typical tech-focused narrative. The diverse career paths chosen by my peers, including those with international backgrounds, really highlight the school's commitment to offering a diverse and thorough business education.
What did you love most about Scheller’s location in the heart of midtown Atlanta?
One of the things I love most about Atlanta is the vibrant and diverse culture that the city offers. Atlanta is a melting pot of different backgrounds, and this diversity is reflected in its neighborhoods, food, and cultural events. Whether it's exploring the historic districts, enjoying the culinary scene, or attending festivals and concerts, there's always something exciting happening in the city.
Moreover, Atlanta's professional landscape is thriving, providing ample opportunities for networking, internships, and post-MBA career options. The city's dynamic business environment, coupled with its southern charm, creates a unique blend that enhanced both the academic and social aspects of my MBA experience. The sense of community and the warmth of the people make Atlanta not just a backdrop for my business school journey, but an integral part of the overall enriching experience.
Where did you intern during the summer of 2023?
I interned at Amazon in their Pathways Operations Leadership program in New Jersey, where I played a key role in developing models and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to optimize Amazon’s inventory management strategies across North America. This involved a strategic transformation of processes to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and streamline resources, particularly focusing on optimizing inventory items to align with customer demands and marketplace dynamics.
Where will you be working after graduation?
I am set to embark on a new journey with Amazon in California, taking on the role of a Pathways operations manager.
Looking back over your MBA experience, what is the one thing you’d do differently and why?
While I explored most of what Scheller has to offer, I feel there's so much more still left. Being in an MBA program is quite a ride. Honestly, I don't have any big regrets, but sometimes I wish I could've said yes to everything! Now, in my last semester, I'm looking forward to exploring more of Scheller and trying out different things beyond the usual MBA routine.
It's cool to get more involved in Scheller extracurriculars, like sports (and achieving my goal of running a triathlon). I'm also exploring ways to be involved in theatre (my love since undergrad). However, if I could go back, I might squeeze in a bit more travel and some extra "me time." But hey, MBA life is a busy adventure!
What surprised you the most about business school?
What surprised me the most about business school was the level of collaboration and diversity in perspectives. I expected a competitive environment, but instead, I found a community where students were genuinely supportive and eager to share their experiences. The diversity of backgrounds and ideas among my peers enriched the learning environment, providing a broader understanding of business concepts and real-world applications. This collaborative spirit and the wealth of perspectives were truly unexpected and contributed significantly to my overall business school experience.
Moreover, the welcoming nature of the entire Scheller community was astonishing. Whether it was the program office, career advisors, or even our dean, the accessibility and willingness to set up meetings to discuss any issues created a magical sense of support. This open-door policy fostered a sense of belonging and made navigating through the challenges of business school much more manageable and enjoyable.
Which MBA classmate do you most admire?
I hold great admiration for my classmate Narin Smith, who is a crucial pillar of the Women in Business club. Her remarkable efforts and contributions to the Women in Business club showcases her dedication to empowering and supporting women within our academic community. Narin's extensive experience and the insightful perspectives she shares in our MBA class contribute significantly to our discussions.
Observing her personal and professional growth has been not only enjoyable but also truly inspiring. Furthermore, it's incredibly motivating to see Narin successfully manage her MBA studies while concurrently pursuing her own venture alongside her husband, demonstrating her unwavering determination and entrepreneurial spirit.
Fun fact about yourself:
I've completed marathons on beaches, in snow, and in a desert. Additionally, during a project, I traveled to 300+ cities in India, a life-changing experience exploring diverse cultures, cuisines, and the richness of my country.
What are the top two items on your professional bucket list?
One of the top items on my professional bucket list is to actively seek opportunities that involve working on projects with a global team or enable short-term relocations to different international offices. I believe that combining travel with work not only brings new perspectives but also enhances my understanding of diverse business practices and cultures. Embracing different geographies in my professional journey is something I find exciting and invaluable for personal and career growth.
Another key aspiration on my professional bucket list is to keep the flame of passion for sustainable startups burning and eventually launch my own venture in the future. I am dedicated to incorporating eco-friendly practices in business and contributing to a positive impact on the environment. Building and leading a sustainable business is a long-term goal that aligns with my commitment to entrepreneurship and making a meaningful mark in the world.