Anupama Gumber, UCLA Anderson MBA Class of 2020
Age: 26
Hometown: Jalalabad West in India
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Panjab University and Electronics and Communication Engineering
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 4 years, Consulting
Why business school? Why now?
Having received the foundational training in consulting from BCG and ZS Associates, I was at a point in my career where I felt poised to make the next leap. Advancement in a role of strategy consultant was a natural choice.
For that, I realized that I needed to acquire new set of business skills that would complement my technical, analytical, and cognitive skills. I wanted to broaden my horizon by learning new things and gaining global exposure. All this could only have been possible at a business school.
Why Anderson? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
For me, getting a global business school experience was of utmost importance. Anderson has a very diverse class with backgrounds ranging from ballet dancers to PhD holders. Before making a call, I talked to the current students and got a sense of the school’s culture and assessed if I would fit in.
While talking to Anderson students, I could feel that it was a natural fit for me – people genuinely cared for each other and believed in sharing success. The cherry on the cake was the #1 ranked career services of Parker (meaning excellent placements) with a side of amazing location (SoCal), culture, and extremely smart yet humble students.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2020?
I believe everyone here brings something unique to the table. I have always been a team player who takes ownership of whatever task I am assigned within the team. I’m bringing to Anderson my never-give-up attitude and my optimistic outlook, which has been essential for the success of my teams and organizations.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I absolutely love Karaoke and am up for it any time.
Post-MBA career interests?
I want to get into management consulting, but since coming to Anderson I have realized that there are plenty of other interesting options. I’m currently exploring those paths.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Speak to current students – mainly second year students – and find the fit. Find out about clubs and activities and see how and where you would like to contribute.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
Prepare better for my interview and emphasize on things that really matter to me. For example, I care deeply about breaking the glass ceiling and encouraging more women to take up leadership roles, I would have highlighted that in my interview.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I felt that every part was important. During different phases of the application process, I introspected and envisioned my short-term and long-term goals. All of it was totally worth it because it provided clarity in selecting the school and finding out what I wanted to do.
What is your initial impression of Anderson’s students/culture/community?
Anderson is an amazing community which will always have your back. I came as a stranger but already know that I’ll leave with life-long friendships. Everyone in the faculty, admissions team, and Parker center is very accessible and very supportive. Sometimes you don’t even ask for help but the community anticipates the need and is there for you.
One thing you have learned about Anderson that has surprised you?
I was surprised by the number of opportunities that Anderson offers. Anderson is great at so many different career paths – technology, consulting, media, entertainment, sports, real estate, entrepreneurship. Seeing all the different opportunities, I’ve realized that I can mix/match and not just pick one.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I feel that time is passing by quickly. It was just a few weeks ago that I came to LA, started summer quarter and here I am at the start of fall quarter. I want to soak in every moment of this transformative experience without giving in to my fear of missing out.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I grew up reading Harry Potter books and am excited to experience the wizarding world of Harry Potter at Universal Studios. I am also looking forward to exploring LA’s cultural landmarks like LACMA, Getty Museum, Hollywood Bowl, Griffith Observatory.
