Sneha Bhatnagar, Simon MBA Class of 2022
Age: 31
Hometown: Uttar Pradesh, India
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Army Institute of Law (Punjabi University); Bachelor of Laws (B.A.L.L.B)
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): I have seven years’ experience in the Corporate legal sector. Prior to Simon, I worked for Thomson Reuters Corporation, leading multiple contract management projects for international clients.
Why business school? Why now?
I have been on a path of constant growth and development over the course of my professional journey – I went from being a bright-eyed employee, part of a six-member legal team at a real estate company, to managing teams at Thomson Reuters Corporation as a seasoned lawyer with managerial experience. While my tenure at Thomson Reuters helped me develop the necessary managerial and legal skills to tackle my responsibilities, each new responsibility came with its own set of challenges. In order to improve my methodology and widen my academic skill sets, I decided to pursue an MBA.
Why Rochester Simon? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose Simon for the following reasons –
- Strong quantitative focused curriculum – The pragmatic learning approach delivered in the Simon MBA EDGE program supplemented with the core curriculum predominantly focused on building a strong quantitative and economics-based education will help me develop a solid understanding of different business functions.
- Diversity – It is among the most diverse school in the United States. My professional development will be enhanced by working together with a diverse group of peers who can help expand my knowledge with their different perspectives across multiple nuanced cultures.
- STEM-designated course
- Experiential learning opportunities
- One of the world’s best college for Finance
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2022?
Understanding how the law interacts and impacts business is extremely important in today’s world. In fact, being able to interpret an agreement and understand how certain clauses could pose a risk is a useful skill irrespective of the field. As someone with legal experience and knowledge, I would be able to help my fellow classmates understand this aspect of business.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I love creating healthy fusion recipes.
Post-MBA career interests?
Corporate finance.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Networking. I reached out to students, admission team members, and attended multiple MBA events. Through this, I was able to assess the program that fits me best. You might have certain misconceptions about a particular college or not aware of certain offerings which can be dispelled only if you reach out and talk to people who are part of the journey you are about to undertake.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
Start preparing early – you should give at least one year to prepare, apply, and finalize your MBA school. This is not a process that should be rushed.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
GRE – It was a struggle getting back to books after years specifically relearning the quantitative aspect of it. At the same time, I am glad that I did study these concepts again.
What is your initial impression of Rochester Simon’s students/culture/community?
Simon is filled with supportive, smart, and kind people. From the admissions team to career coaches to second years to your classmates – everyone looks out for you. The culture of giving back is deeply ingrained in all who are associated with Simon. I am so proud of being associated with this program.
One thing you have learned about Rochester Simon that has surprised you?
The amount of support you have for the academics. MBA programs are tough but Simon provides you with all the tools to help you succeed.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
COVID-19 has completely changed our lives. I was anxious about attending in-person classes and getting the opportunity to know my classmates in the Hybrid setup. Simon did a fantastic job of maintaining a safe environment and ensured that the safety regulations are followed in class. It made me feel safe coming to school. Overall, it has been a great journey so far.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am most excited about making new friends and learning new concepts.
