Trisha Akula, Rochester Simon Business School MBA Class of 2026
Age: 28 years
Hometown: India
Undergraduate Institution and Major: St. Francis Degree College for Women and Major in Finance and Business
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Financial Advisor at Deloitte (Jan 2022 – March 2023), Senior Analyst at JP Morgan Chase (July 2019 – Jan 2022)
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I have always dreamed of pursuing a master’s degree in the U.S. I chose to attend business school because it offers a comprehensive learning experience, allowing me to explore various industries while networking with students from diverse backgrounds. At this stage in my life, I am eager to understand the impact of technology across different sectors and learn how to tackle problems by considering multiple facets of business, rather than focusing on just one area.
Why did you choose Rochester Simon? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose Rochester Simon for three main reasons. Through my research and conversations with alumni, I found that the school offers small class sizes, ensuring that every student receives individual attention from faculty and staff— something my mother prioritized when I began my education, and mothers are rarely wrong. This supportive environment will help me learn and build connections on a personal level. Furthermore, Simon’s analytical focus is essential for me, as I have limited experience with technical tools. In our technology-driven world, I believe Simon excels in this area. Lastly, I was impressed by the success stories of alumni who have secured positions at top companies, highlighting the school’s positive impact on students’ careers.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2026?
My experience at multinational companies like JP Morgan Chase and Deloitte has given me a strong understanding of global markets and working with different cultures. I can share how business practices vary across regions, which will enrich our classroom discussions. Also, my ability to adapt to diverse environments will help create an inclusive atmosphere among classmates from various backgrounds. I’m excited to use my experiences to encourage teamwork and contribute to a lively learning community.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I practice yoga and have lost 23 kg in 7 months through total dedication.
Post-MBA career interests:
My post-MBA career interests lie in pursuing pricing and financial strategy roles. I aim to work with a forward-thinking organization where I can analyze market trends and develop strategies that drive profitability and competitiveness. I’m particularly interested in roles that involve cross-functional collaboration, allowing me to work closely with marketing, sales, and product development teams to align financial strategies with overall business goals. Ultimately, I aspire to leverage my analytical skills and industry knowledge to contribute to strategic decision-making and enhance the organization’s financial performance.
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 as part of my application process is to engage deeply with current students and alumni. By reaching out to them, I gained invaluable insights into the school’s culture, academic environment, and opportunities available. These conversations not only helped me refine my understanding of how I could contribute to the community but also reinforced my enthusiasm for the program. This proactive approach allowed me to tailor my application to reflect my genuine interest and alignment with the school’s values, ultimately strengthening my candidacy.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I have applied in round two, so one thing I would change in my application process is to start my preparation earlier. By giving myself more time, I could have conducted more thorough research on the program and explored additional resources, such as workshops or networking events. This would have allowed me to refine my application further and engage more deeply with the community. Starting earlier would also have reduced stress, enabling me to present my best self throughout the process.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
If I could skip one part of the application process, it would be the self-editing of my personal statement. The constant cycle of drafting and revising became quite overwhelming at times. What helped me through it was seeking feedback from trusted friends and mentors who provided valuable insights and encouragement. Their input not only improved my writing but also boosted my confidence, reminding me of my strengths and motivations. This support made the editing process more manageable and ultimately led to a statement I was proud of.
What is your initial impression of the Rochester Simon MBA students/culture/community?
My initial impression of the Simon community is that every student is valued and treated with respect. There is a strong culture of helpfulness, where everyone is eager to support one another. The diversity of cultures is celebrated, creating an inclusive environment. Additionally, the school hosts many fun events that foster connections among students. The constant support from career advisors, alumni and second years MBAs further enhances this collaborative atmosphere, making Simon a welcoming and engaging place to learn.
What is one thing you have learned about Simon that has surprised you?
One thing that surprised me about Simon is how accessible and supportive the faculty and staff are. I expected my professors to be knowledgeable, but I was pleasantly surprised at how friendly and invested they are in helping students succeed. They often go out of their way to provide guidance, whether through informal office hours or personalized mentorship, which creates a strong sense of community. This level of support really enhances the learning experience and shows that the faculty is dedicated to helping students do well, both academically and in their careers.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I’m most worried about managing the workload in my first year and balancing my studies with networking and extracurricular activities. The classes are interesting but demanding, and I want to keep up with my studies while also connecting with classmates and professionals. To manage this, I plan to create a clear schedule and prioritize my time, which will help me fully engage in both my academic and social activities without feeling overwhelmed. However, I believe that all this effort will be worthwhile in the end, as it provides valuable learning opportunities.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am most excited about connecting with classmates from different backgrounds around the world in my first year. I look forward to having discussions that share different viewpoints, which will make my learning experience richer. I’m eager to work on projects and join group activities, as I believe these interactions will help me grow personally and professionally. I’m also excited to check out the clubs and events at Simon, as they will help me make new friends and expand my network in meaningful ways.
