Vedika Narayanan, Tepper MBA Class of 2021
Age: 29
Hometown: Cupertino, CA
Undergraduate Institution and Major: UC San Diego – B.S Human Bio, B.A International Studies
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 7.5 years, technology education
Why business school? Why now?
I wanted to meet new people and hear new ideas from folks from a variety of backgrounds. Additionally, I was not a business major in my undergrad, and I always felt like I was missing some of the foundational knowledge that an MBA would provide.
The catalyst for applying was when I was working with a few folks at my company to integrate data analytics into more of our decision making – I realized that there were some foundational gaps in my knowledge that I wanted to build out, and an MBA was the best way to do it.
Why Tepper? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
There were two major considerations for me – a program with a strong quantitative foundation, and a feeling of support and warmth from people in the program. Tepper is obviously known for the former, but the latter became so apparent through the application process.
In hindsight, my decision to attend (if I got in) happened right after I got my interview invitation. From that point on, the admissions team was incredibly helpful in connecting me with students who answered my questions, and even asked if I wanted to chat to ask any questions about the interview process. Post-admission, everyone at Tepper was so tirelessly supportive through the onboarding process and I felt an immediate connection with my peers.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2021?
I hope that with my non-traditional background in education, I will be able to share different perspectives about.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I’ve read all the Harry Potter books at least 12 times.
Post-MBA career interests?
I’m interested in continuing to work in education, hopefully in a consulting role that focuses on higher ed.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Talk to AS MANY people as you possibly can from the different schools you are interested in, and make sure it’s a blend of current students and alumni. Hindsight is 20/20, and everyone will have a different perspective about their programs based on their experience.
There is such a thing as too much information, but when you are making a decision about where to spend the next two years of your life you want to make sure it’s a good fit for you.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
I wish I had spent a little more time researching different industries and functions prior to applying. I had been at one job in one industry since graduating from college, and I didn’t take the time to look outside that bubble to understand the types of roles available (and there are a lot)!
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it? Nothing!
What is your initial impression of Tepper’s students/culture/community?
Warm, funny people that don’t take themselves too seriously. This is definitely an intense program, but everyone is willing to collaborate and help each other out, whether it’s working on a problem set or getting advice on the recruitment/interview process. We have students here who have exempted out of certain classes, but they still take the time to help students who are going through the content for the first time, which is amazing.
One thing you have learned about Tepper that has surprised you?
The professors are not just here for research. They are so passionate about making sure that each of us learn, while fostering an environment where we can push back on their ideas. Our classes are so much more than just a lecture, they are discussions where all of us are encouraged to share our professional experiences and use our backgrounds to enrich our discussions. The size of the program also means that we are not just a number in the classroom.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Figuring out how to prioritize all the different activities available to us! There are so many clubs and activities are both fun and allow us to build out our network, but there are SO many clubs and activities that it is hard to pick! We’re all learning to lose that feeling of FOMO, but it’s definitely a challenge.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Exploring this awesome city with the amazing people in this program.
