Nishi Patel, Rochester Simon Business School MBA Class of 2025
Nishi Patel, Rochester Simon Business School MBA Class of 2025Age: 28
Hometown: Mumbai, India
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Dr. D. Y. Patil College of Physiotherapy – Bachelor of Physical Therapy
Graduate Institute and Major: Dallas Baptist University – Master of Science in Kinesiology; Acadia University – Doctor of Physical Therapy
Pre-MBA Work Experience (role, company, years): 3+ years as a physical therapist at New Jersey Rehab Experts and Spear Physical Therapy in New Jersey.
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
Throughout my career, I have made impact on the ground level; however, I want to translate that more broadly by impacting many lives. I am still focused on working in the healthcare and life science industries, but the next step is to be in a position where I better understand the needs of the market (i.e., patients and physicians). As well, I wish to be the liaison between patients/physicians and senior leadership.
Why did you choose Simon Business School? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
There are two factors that attracted me to Simon. Firstly, I appreciate the program’s focus on quant and analytics. As well, I love the student diversity – one can learn about so many different journeys, experiences and lives from around the world.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2025?
My clinical experience is one of my most valuable and differentiating contributions. I am pursuing my MBA to develop my hard skills – however, it’s important to me that I bring humanity to my classroom experience and future work.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application.
I am obsessed with world history and politics. In fact, you can find me listening to a podcast or reading a book on these topics! I think this is why I love conducting research so much! As well, I enjoy discovering dance forms from around the world because it helps me learn about different cultures. I’m familiar with traditional Indian dance forms such as Bharatnatyam, Kathakali, and Garba; Latin dance forms, such as Salsa and Bachata; and belly dancing.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
One thing I would absolutely do again is mock interviews! My preparation enabled me to share my personal and professional story better. It was also very helpful that I conducted thorough research on each school.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I wouldn’t downplay my experience simply because it’s non-traditional! I learned to embrace the fact that while my experience is unique, it’s still very valuable – I may approach situations from a different perspective or ask different questions than someone with a more traditional business background. When I came to terms with all of this, my application became more personal and truer to my story.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
If I could do it again, I wouldn’t have modified my resume for each business school application. I probably could have skipped this and focused more time on cover letters.
What is your initial impression of the Simon students/culture/community?
Generous and giving! The entire community – including staff, professors and peers – is extremely helpful and empathetic. Most of the courses that I’m taking are new to me, but so many of my peers have been supportive and have helped me understand the course content.
What is one thing you have learned about Simon that has surprised you?
Simon goes above and beyond to prepare you for the real world, and the school doesn’t just focus on academics. There is a plethora of resources outside of the classroom that you can tap into – everything from case competitions to 1:1 interview prep.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Since I come from a non-traditional background, every course I take is new to me. At times, this can feel overwhelming – on top of juggling recruiting and my social life. However, it helps that I’m surrounded by a supportive school community to help me through it!
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am really excited to get to know my peers on a deeper level. They have such different experiences from what I’m used to – I know it will be a great source of inspiration! As well, the connections I make, and the things I learn will help me reach my professional goals of working in a corporate setting.
