Ankit Khullar, Rice MBA Class of 2022
Age: 29 years
Hometown: Kaithal (Haryana)
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Deen Bandhu Chottu Ram University of Science and Technology, India – Electrical Engineering
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 7 years, Energy & Chemicals
Why business school? Why now?
I believe an overlap between personal goals and education is imperative for a successful outcome. The business school journey will increase my exposure to multiple business areas and provide more growth opportunities that will help me move faster towards my career goal of strategically impacting a global organization.
The MBA timelines depend on various individual factors. With seven years of global experience, I felt that this is the right time to sail the MBA journey to reset myself and come back strongly in the industry.
Why Rice Business? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I firmly believe the post-program career profiles of a program’s alumni network is a reasonable metric to ascertain the effectiveness of a business school. The fact that most of the alums are in leadership position justifies the premium Rice Business commands in the MBA world.
MBA leadership development program, small class size fostering healthy relationships among students and faculty, diversity, and international outlook were the core tenants in my decision to attend Rice Business. For me, “What sets Rice Business apart is the close, tight-knit community.”
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2022?
With a strong interest in globalization and studying its impact on shaping civilization, I have been to and worked in eight countries in Europe, Asia, and North America. Sharing those cultural differences, stories, and unique business etiquette during classroom discussions helps me contribute in a unique way.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
My superpower is “I make beer disappear.”
Post-MBA career interests?
Strategy and Operations.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Be clear and concise not only about your capabilities but also your insecurities and weaknesses. The main goal of application evaluation is to understand how the applicant thinks and how he or she tackles open-ended problems.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
Dig for clues in the application. In my experience, a school’s application reveals a lot about the prevailing mindset of the program. I would try to add my stories in the STAR format.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I would not tweak my application based on opinions and focus more on important things for me. Be bold to project the real you in the application.
What is your initial impression of Rice Jones’s students/culture/community?
The 25% of international students at Rice are a real reflection of international students’ inclusiveness at Rice Graduate Programs. The MBA student program office makes every attempt to support international students. Rice Business is a close-knit community, and everyone in the school has each other’s back.
One thing you have learned about Rice Jones that has surprised you?
The Rice Business MBA program has so many talented people from all over the world, who speak many languages, worked for top companies, represented many industries, received many awards and accolades, but are still very humble and willing to help anyone out if needed.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Business school is a busy and stressful time. It can be incredibly draining during the first weeks and months as you meet new people and perhaps adjust to a new city or country. I am anxious about the well-being that can be compromised amongst the priorities competing for your time.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am excited about “How to make the most of my MBA card.”
