Ananya Ghosh is expected to earn her MBA in business analytics from Lerner this December. Ananya shared why she chose Lerner for her grad work and the defining experience of her studies.
Lerner: Why did you go back to pursue your graduate degree? Why did you choose the Lerner College for your studies?
Ghosh: Throughout my career, I developed a strong interest in business strategies and a drive to make a meaningful difference by launching my own business. As the data science market rapidly expanded and the demand for professionals skilled in analyzing vast datasets soared, my attention was drawn to the MBA program with a specialization in business analytics. It seemed like the perfect chance to deepen my understanding of data visualization tools and techniques and to extract valuable insights from data.
I chose Lerner College because of multiple reasons. Foremost, it holds a prominent global ranking among business schools, assuring top-notch education. Delving further, the university’s commitment to personalized mentorship, dedicated career services, and a robust alumni network greatly resonated with me, assuring a holistic and supportive learning environment. Moreover, the strategic placement of Lerner College in central Delaware, with its strategic proximity to major metropolises like Washington D.C., Baltimore, Philadelphia, and New York City.
Lerner: What did you learn through this opportunity that you wouldn’t have learned anywhere else?
Ghosh: It’s been a wonderful experience connecting with a diverse group of fellow graduate students, exceptional faculty members, and accomplished alumni. Collaborating on projects and participating in networking events has provided me with lessons – the importance of teamwork, effective communication and the impact of cultivating strong professional connections.
Lerner: Please share an example of a course or concept that you were able to apply directly to your life and/or career.
Ghosh: So far, the courses I’ve taken have been incredibly informative and impactful. Among them, there’s one particular course that stands out and I’d like to highlight: FINC 650 (Financial Management). This course has not only provided essential knowledge but also directly influenced my approach to financial decisions, both in my career and personal life. The insights gained from understanding how investors value financial investments, like bonds and stocks, helped me make more informed decisions about my personal investments. I could assess potential investments more critically and align them with my financial goals.
Lerner: Describe an important connection you have made through your graduate program (personal, professional, peers, mentors, professors, etc.)
Ghosh: One of the most valuable experiences was when I became an executive board member for the MBA Student Association at Lerner College of Business and Economics. I had the privilege to work closely with a diverse group of peers, faculty members, and industry professionals. This leadership journey helped me develop crucial skills in teamwork, communication, and efficient organizational management.
Working together with other MBASA members, we planned and successfully executed various events and initiatives that significantly enriched the graduate student experience and fostered a strong sense of belonging within the MBA program.
Lerner: If you were to describe your classmates in one word, what would that be and why?
Ghosh: The term that fittingly characterizes my fellow classmates is “inclusive.” It’s fascinating how diverse our backgrounds, cultures, and life experiences are. Despite this wide array of differences, we’ve come together to foster an environment of acceptance and openness. This ethos ensures that every individual feels esteemed and respected, setting the stage for a collaborative and supportive atmosphere.
Lerner: How do you balance your career with your studies?
Ghosh: Splitting up my tasks into smaller, more doable steps. It’s like taking a big goal and breaking it into bite-sized pieces. This method makes those intimidating tasks doable and stops me from getting overwhelmed.
Lerner: Fill in this sentence: “My graduate program helped me become…”
Ghosh: “My graduate program helped me become a skilled professional, equipped with the knowledge, expertise, and practical experience to make a meaningful impact in my career.”
Lerner: What was the most impactful hands-on project or case competition that you were able to participate in?
Ghosh: Participating in the Carol Ammon Case Competition stands out as a defining experience during my studies. The competition bridges the gap between academic theories and their pragmatic applications. It underscores the relevance of classroom knowledge in real-world business contexts. It involves pooling diverse talents and perspectives from fellow students to craft well-rounded solutions for the case challenges. The competition demands deep analytical thinking and the formulation of innovative strategies, rooted in concrete data. This cultivates strategic thinking and enhances decision-making capabilities.