Gautam Chokhani, Wharton’s MBA Class of 2022
Age: 27
Hometown: Kathmandu, Nepal
Undergraduate Institution and Major: IIT Kanpur (Indian Institute of Technology)
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 5 years, Banking & Entrepreneurship
Why business school? Why now?
Three main reasons to come to business school:
- To gain holistic management skills: Most of the learning has been through hands-on experience and so, an MBA will help me fine-tune my business management skills
- Networking: Build a network of extremely talented and dynamic individuals at Wharton that would go beyond the 2 years at school
- Global experience: Gain unique perspectives towards business management from a diverse group of individuals coming from across the world and with varied backgrounds
Now because the unprecedented circumstances of the pandemic will likely transform the way business is conducted across the world and being at the center of business innovation at Wharton will provide me the right set of tools to navigate effectively towards my goal of transforming the lives of the people across the world for the good.
Why Wharton? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Through Wharton’s collaborative culture, action-based leadership training, and emphasis on data-driven decision making, I hope to challenge my ability to lead teams, inspire innovation, and drive growth as I prepare to transform my solar energy company, Vaultra Energy Solutions, into a global sustainable technology enterprise. By eventually expanding my startup into new regions and sustainable technologies, including but not limited to waste management, risks of climate change, and financial inclusion, I hope to foster new economic opportunities and impact communities around the world. The resources at Wharton for entrepreneurship and innovation together with my conversations with students and alumni helped me understand that Wharton is the right place for me.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2022?
My entrepreneurial experiences in different fields across emerging markets have helped me develop a unique perspective toward analyzing and solving problems in any business. As a place that teaches students to put ideas into action, pursue innovation, and drive global change, my experiences help me drive thoughtful classroom discussions as I impact my peers and learn new business strategies.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
That I am a nature lover and adventure enthusiast 🙂
Post-MBA career interests?
At Wharton, as I explore new ideas, forge lifelong relationships, and seek to make an impact, I will embrace challenges that will prepare me to reach my goal of leveraging technology to transform the lives of people across the world.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Research in detail about the school and be authentic and real about my experiences, goals, and what I wish to gain out of my MBA
–One thing you would change or do differently?
Plan my application well in advance and keep sufficient time to think through my experiences and relate to my objectives while at Wharton
What is your initial impression of Wharton’s students/culture/community?
The Wharton community comprises extremely talented and humble individuals dedicated to achieving their goals with an emphasis on the collective good and respect for the Wharton culture. The community embraces diversity and is committed to standing together with one another.
One thing you have learned about Wharton that has surprised you?
The students, alumni, and faculty are extremely approachable and supportive at both a personal and a professional level
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Making the move to Philadelphia amidst the uncertainty of visa and travel due to the pandemic
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Interactions with people with different backgrounds, interests, and experiences, coming from across the world.
