Amisha Mittal, Kelley MBA Class of 2022
Age: 28
Hometown: New Delhi, India
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Jaypee Institute of Information Technology – Electronics and Communication Engineering
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 6 years; Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti (June 2014-Oct 2015); Branch Manager, State Bank of India ( October 2015- August 2020)
Why business school? Why now?
As I had no prior background in Business, I wanted to develop all-round business acumen. I also wanted the international experience to gain more exposure. After working in various rotations at State bank of India and finally becoming Branch Manager, I felt I had reached my capacity there but I really wanted to grow and learn more so I felt it was the right time to invest in myself and pursue MBA.
Why Kelley? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
For me, it was always about culture fit and peer classmates, seniors. The major reason for choosing Kelley was its small class size. I wanted to develop strong interpersonal relationships with my classmates. After talking to seniors while applying, I realized that the culture was very collaborative and everyone was invested in you. I also connected well with Executive Director Gale Gold Nichols as we both had some prior experience in micro-finance. Another personal reason was that it was near to my brother who is studying at Mendoza College of Business, Notre Dame University.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2022?
Working in the banking sector and the NGO gave me a thorough understanding of the operations involved in both for-profit and non-profit organizations. I leverage my experience and technical knowledge to contribute to the peer learning experience and bring the international perspective to the table.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I am an ardent follower of Mahatma Gandhi and believe a change has to be always brought at the grass-root level. I have also authored a book on Mahatma Gandhiji’s childhood “The Man as We Know Him.”
Post-MBA career interests?
I believe we need more and more women in finance and I am interested in Investment Banking. I am also interested in financial institutions such as the World Bank and would love to work in the domain of micro-finance, enabling people to get access to credit.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Always reach out to current students at business schools before applying. You get a good sense of the culture by talking to different students and can find out if it is the right cultural fit for you.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
To take leave from office to prepare for GMAT, Business School applications, and Interviews. It gets really hectic to study at midnight and submit applications after a long tiring day at work.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
The self-doubt while waiting to hear back results from Business Schools. The constant support of my parents and brother who had put their full confidence in me and always motivated me to think positive.
What is your initial impression of Kelley’s students/culture/community?
It is exactly what I had imagined. The culture is very collaborative and everyone is ready to get on a call with you to help you out be it a personal or professional matter. Also, the teachers acknowledge your international perspectives and views and try to include them in class discussions.
One thing you have learned about Kelley that has surprised you?
The way they have tackled this COVID Pandemic. We are one of the very few schools which have had in-person classes all-round the semester with proper safety measures being taken.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I am most anxious about going back to school and attending classes as it has been more than six years since I went back to school. Also, the academic system in the USA is entirely different from that of India.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am very excited to meet diverse people, get to learn about their culture, and form long-term relationships with my peers.
