Rahul Manocha lives in Newark, Delaware and is an MBA in business analytics candidate at the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics. Manocha, who plans to graduate in 2020, shared his experience choosing Lerner graduate programs and how it has impacted him both personally and professionally.
Q: Why did you go back to school to pursue your graduate degree? Why did you choose the Lerner College?
Manocha: With pursuing my graduate degree, not only have I chosen to further and expand my education but gain invaluable skills and hands-on experience. Through the Lerner College, I knew I would be receiving this through their innovative programs, distinguished faculty and unique curriculum of multiple disciplines.
Q: What did you learn through this opportunity that you wouldn’t have learned anywhere else?
Manocha: Through my time in class, jobs, projects and internships, I learned the importance of the duality of being a team player and a leader, that creating a strong team is essential in getting the job done. And no matter what role you are playing, you need to give your 100%.
Q: What is an example of a course or concept that you were able to apply directly to your life and/or career?
Manocha: The course of project management not only helped me manage my courses but also manage my schedule and prioritize my tasks.
Q: Can you describe an important connection you have made through your graduate program?
Manocha: Probably the greatest connection I’ve made was with my peers and professors. I had the unique opportunity to study with students and professors from all over the globe, giving me wider and invaluable insight on different perspectives on international matters.
Q: If you were to describe your classmates in one word, what would that be?
Manocha: I’ve noticed that my peers have this innate tenacity to learn. They exemplify grit and determination and are mostly fueled by being intellectually curious and having a desire to learn and refine their professional skills. And in turn, when immersed in this type of environment, one is propelled to perform at the same caliber.
Q: How do you balance your career with your studies?
Manocha: Sticking to a set schedule has allowed me to balance my work and school life. It was a challenge at first but it became easier as I gained experience and understood how I wanted to shape the direction of the degree to suit my unique interests. Having the support of my parents gave me motivation to work harder.
Q: Fill in this sentence: “My graduate program helped me become…”
Manocha: more confident and self-sufficient.
Q: What was the most impactful hands-on project or case competition that you were able to participate in?
Manocha: The project of immersive collaboration using virtual reality during my graduate internship with Christiana Care.
Q: What are your plans or next steps for the future?
Manocha: Finding a full-time job as a business analyst.