Arpita Gaur, Washington Foster’s MBA Class of 2025
Arpita Gaur, Washington Foster’s MBA Class of 2025Age: 28
Hometown: Rajasthan, India
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Vellore Institute of Technology, India. Bachelor’s in Computer Science & Engineering.
Pre-MBA Work Experience (role, company, years): Mentioned below in the order of most recent to least: Project Manager, Microsoft Corporation, 2.5 years; Senior Business Analyst, Dell Technologies, ~ 3 years; Analyst, Standard Chartered GBS, 1 year.
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
My credentials as a Computer Science Engineer, certified project manager, and six years of professional experience in the technical industry with Microsoft, Dell, and Standard Chartered Bank, create a clear avenue for my career advancement, i.e., MBA. This prominent field of study precisely offers my resolve. While I was working as Project Manager, I realized that I enjoyed front-lining the business, and during this time, COVID had already driven a gradual and sluggish environment. I took this opportunity to learn more about the MBA program and opportunities associated with it, this helped me make up my decision to enroll with this new challenge and accelerate my growth.
Why did you choose the University of Washington Foster? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I performed a fit analysis assessing which school would set me up for achieving career goals better than others. Washington Foster’s access to tech giants in the Seattle area played in a role as I desire to work in the tech industry post-MBA. Additionally, the scholarship and financial assistance provided by the school made me, as an international student, feel confident about the ROI. The most important factor was the famous curriculum, teaching staff, and culture acted as a pulling force helping me make me decision in favor of this school.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2025?
I bring a range of experience in various industries and job functions. From working in the finance industry as a developer with Standard Chartered Bank to working in product strategy and pricing for Dell and finally a Project Manager at Microsoft. I have learned tremendously from leaders across the organizations. I hope I can present some of that learning to the class of 2025.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I am a yoga enthusiast, and I enjoy spending time with animals. I have fostered several cats throughout my life and worked closely with an animal rights center in India. I enjoy spending time out in nature and now embracing the hiking culture of Seattle.
Post-MBA career interests:
My desire is to work in the Tech industry in roles that are related to product and marketing.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Usually, candidates end up receiving multiple offers from top schools, and therefore an extensive fit analysis becomes crucial in deciding the university and program. It is paramount that candidate decides on the program that will help them in creating avenues for their career goals.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would make use of the ambassador program offered by Washington Foster and learn more about the program and application process directly from someone who went through the entire process most recently.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
The toughest part for me was to prepare for the general exam prior to applying for the program. Part of that was because I was working professionally during my preparation period. I believe the resilience to achieve my career goals kept me going.
What is your initial impression of the Washington Foster students/culture/community?
The community of Washington Foster is diverse and welcoming. I have felt euphoric from the inclusive culture, refreshing and beautiful university campus and cordial people around.
What is one thing you have learned about Washington Foster that has surprised you?
I have been surprised by the abundance of resources that the school possesses. Resources in the form of notable alumni or career management and even for academic research. There is an answer to everything available within the school network.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
As I have started my first quarter with academics and internship hunt, I am exploring opportunities to enroll in clubs, societies, and volunteering work. This process means attending more social gatherings. I’ve realized managing time while juggling various deliverables and events is going to be a challenge. This makes me anxious, but my preparedness for the busy schedule softens the impact.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am looking forward to exploring the beauty of Washington State through the three amazing national parks and hundreds of other mesmerizing places.
