Dasha Shevchuk, Columbia Business School MBA Class of 2025
Age: 31
Hometown: Dzerzhinsk, Russia
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Moscow State University, International Relations
Pre-MBA Work Experience (role, company, years): 8 years, Diplomacy: Embassy of Switzerland in Moscow. Strategy consulting: PwC Russia and Innovaud. Fashion: Digital commerce at SMCP USA (brands Sandro and Maje).
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I decided to attend business school to sharpen my business skills, recognizing the need for formal business training after working in a variety of industries. The school not only addresses this need but also offers a unique chance to expand my network, a significant aspect following my recent move to the United States. Essentially, I sought a transformative experience to bring my career to the next level, and I believe business school is the optimal choice for achieving this goal.
Why did you choose CBS? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Columbia Business School was my top choice. I applied to Columbia Business School three times because I was truly determined to study at this school. I chose Columbia Business School because of its outstanding reputation, extensive network, and its location in New York City. Having lived in NYC for a year and a half prior to joining Columbia, I wanted to establish a lasting professional network in the city. Columbia Business School’s location provides students with numerous opportunities for internships and connections with potential employers. I was also particularly impressed by the collaborative and diverse nature of both the student and alumni communities. My exchanges with students, professors and the admission team made me realize that, with its culture of support, Columbia Business School offers an encouraging environment for growth. After a few months at the school, I can confidently confirm all the above.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2025?
My valuable contribution to the Class of 2025 stems from my extensive international experience. I studied and worked in Russia, France, Austria, Australia, Switzerland, and the United States. This has helped me to cultivate a global mindset, enabling me to create and work in inclusive teams, appreciate, and learn from diverse perspectives. Additionally, as one of the few representatives of the Eastern European region at Columbia Business School, I am proud to share our culture and traditions, contributing to the school community.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I have a neurological trait called synesthesia, granting me an exceptional memory for small details, which I visualize in colors (including letters, numbers, and months). I’ve had this trait since childhood, always assuming that everyone associates colors with months and numbers, like, for example, seeing July as green or number 31 as blue. Surprisingly, I only discovered a couple of years ago that this is a relatively unique trait.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Embarking on the MBA application journey feels like navigating uncharted waters of self-discovery. I truly enjoyed writing my essays since it was a unique and introspective process. Writing MBA essays prompts profound reflection on your current self, your future career aspirations, and your motivations. It’s truly rewarding.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
In the initial stage of my application process, I quickly chose GMAT, without considering alternative options like GRE and Executive Assessment (EA). I assumed GMAT was the best choice, given its popularity among applicants. In hindsight, I realize I should have taken more time to explore other exam options. It’s worth noting that all these exams are equally accepted at Columbia Business School. However, they do have differences, emphasizing the importance of selecting the one where you can demonstrate your best performance. In my case, it turned out to be the EA rather than the GMAT.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I would have opted to skip the standardized test part. My fiancé and family supported me through the exam process.
What is your initial impression of the CBS students/culture/community?
I’m impressed by the diversity of our class, with approximately 47% of international students from around the globe. Each person has a fascinating story and a purpose for being at Columbia Business School. In a relatively short period, I’ve connected with remarkable classmates—kind, ambitious, and exceptionally intelligent—who have quickly become good friends. The Columbia Business School community is strong, and classmates here genuinely care about each other.
What is one thing you have learned about CBS that has surprised you?
I knew about the Columbia Business School cluster system before applying, but its strength truly became apparent once I joined the school. Admitted students are grouped into clusters of 70-80 peers, and these clusters remain significant even after graduation. Occasionally, when meeting Columbia Business School alums in the city, one of the first questions they ask is: “Which cluster are you?”. I am a proud member of Cluster G (Grizzlies). To those of you reading this who might be assigned to this cluster in the future, consider yourselves very fortunate!
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
In my first year, I’m most anxious about effectively navigating the myriad of opportunities at CBS. The challenge lies in prioritizing and ensuring I make the most of many chances to connect with peers, professors, alumni, and the broader community while maintaining a balanced MBA education.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to cultivate stronger connections with classmates in my first year at Columbia Business School. Serving as the social chair of my cluster, I genuinely enjoy this role and am excited about organizing more fun and memorable events with my clustermates.
