Rumi (Mitra) White, LBS MBA Class of 2021
Age: 28
Hometown: South Bend, Indiana, USA
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Williams College, BA in English Literature with a concentration in Cognitive Science
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry):
Right after college, I got a master’s degree in Computer Graphics & Gaming Technology from the University of Pennsylvania. It exposed me to the world of 3D game development and visual effects. Many of my classmates went into the animation, gaming, and visual effects industries afterwards, but I was fascinated by augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) development. It was a perfect blend of creative and technical work. It led me to Accenture in New York, where I spent three years building AR and VR apps for Fortune 500 clients, as well as conducting AR/VR strategy work for these clients.
Why business school? Why now?
An MBA equips you with a phenomenal network and a range of applicable skills (like finance and negotiation) that take your career to the next level. After spending three years tackling engineering problems in AR/VR, I wanted to pivot to solving business development, operational, and ethical challenges within the innovative technology realm. Business school seemed like an important piece of that transition.
Why LBS? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
So many factors! The LBS MBA strikes a balance between academic rigor and flexibility that allows me to explore a business role in technology. I can use block scheduling to my advantage in the second year to pursue another internship or work part-time. Second, I wanted a truly global experience to broaden my perspective. LBS is one of the few business schools where I was in the minority as an American.
I also thought the interview process was remarkably personalized, reflecting a school that really cared about who I was as a person. And I couldn’t ignore the fact that I would spend 2 years (at least) in London, one of my favourite cities in the world!
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2021?
Just within my “stream,” or the set of MBA students I take classes with, there’s a filmmaker and an ex-army officer. Many of my classmates have impressive, non-traditional backgrounds. I think my combined creative and technical experience brings a unique perspective to discussions about innovative technology.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I was a nationally ranked epée fencer in the US in high school and even competed in the Junior Olympics.
Post-MBA career interests?
I’m interested in staying within creative technology on the business development or operational side, whether at an entertainment company or as part of an automotive or retail firm.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Talking to as many alumni as I can! I got a personal glimpse into life at the school that I couldn’t find in online literature or webinars.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
I wish I had visited LBS before applying, sat in on classes, and chatted to some of the professors. It wouldn’t have changed the fact that LBS was my top choice, but nothing beats experiencing a school in person.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Skipping the GMAT would have been the best! The key is to take a practice exam at the start – figure out what your strengths and weaknesses are, and use them to create a smart study plan. I stuck to a strict schedule, took plenty of practice tests, and tried to simulate the test environment as much as I could. But I also made sure to reward myself with fun breaks, so make sure you don’t burn out!
What is your initial impression of LBS’s students/culture/community?
They’re ridiculously smart, yet humble. And incredibly familiar, yet from all corners of the globe. When you ask someone where they’re from, they pause – often because the answer involves 2 or 3 countries.
One thing you have learned about LBS that has surprised you?
I figured out from the interview that LBS cared a lot about creating a collaborative community, but it’s still a (wonderful) surprise to see how well that’s reflected in my classmates.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Maintaining a work and life balance. There are so many opportunities here. I’ve got to take a step back, evaluate my priorities, and participate in organizations and activities in which I think I’ll make a tangible and significant impact.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m really excited to get to know my classmates at a deeper level – their motivations, histories, passions, and quirky habits.
