Prachi Parundekar, Vanderbilt Owen MBA Class of 2026
Age: 26
Hometown: Nashik, India
Undergraduate Institution and Major: University of Pune
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Four years in EY’s International Tax practice and one year as a Strategy Analyst at Eaton Corporation.
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I decided to attend business school because I felt like I had built a solid foundation in consulting and finance, but I recognized some gaps that were holding me back from reaching the next level in my career. I’ve gained a lot of technical expertise, but I knew I needed more hands-on experience in business-focused consulting and the chance to sharpen my leadership skills. I’m also aiming to get more global exposure, something that’s crucial for navigating today’s interconnected markets.
The timing made sense now because I want to shift toward management consulting, where I can work on large-scale transformations, M&A, or general business advisory. Business school gives me the platform to deepen my understanding of industry best practices, work alongside senior leadership to develop that “CEO perspective,” and expand my professional network to open up those opportunities.
Why did you choose Vanderbilt Owen? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
As an international student, finding a supportive and close-knit community was a top priority for me. When I reached out to current students and alumni at Vanderbilt Owen, the warmth and encouragement I received really stood out. It made me feel like I would be joining a community that genuinely cares about its members, which is so important when you’re transitioning to a new country. The smaller class size was also a big factor because it allows for more personal connections with professors and classmates, helping me build a strong network. Finally, Owen’s focus on leadership coaching really appealed to me, as I wanted tailored guidance to grow both personally and professionally in a new, diverse environment.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2026?
I think my background will be a strong asset to the Class of 2026. Having studied diverse subjects like pricing, finance, accounting, and taxes, and worked in various industries, I’ve developed a broad perspective that I’m excited to bring to our discussions. I enjoy asking questions that spark deeper conversations and challenge conventional thinking. Since our case-based learning depends so much on lively, insightful discussions, I hope my experiences will add a unique dimension to our collective learning.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
My love for cats! Back home, I always carried packets of cat food to feed any stray cats I came across, and I fostered as many as I could. My passion for helping felines grew even more after I rescued my cat and her four kittens. One of my dreams for the future is to start my own rescue center for stray animals and help them find permanent, loving homes. As my MBA schedule becomes a bit less hectic, I also look forward to volunteering at local rescue centers in Nashville to continue supporting this cause.
Post-MBA career interests:
Management consulting / internal strategy and corporate finance
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I would definitely take the time to deeply reflect on my strengths, goals, and values before starting my application essays. This introspection allowed me to uncover my most authentic stories and present myself in the best possible light. Since each school values different qualities in its candidates, tailoring your application to resonate with the specific culture and expectations of the school is crucial. While this reflection process is time-consuming, it’s worth the effort. Additionally, speaking with as many current students as possible is key to determining your fit with a program. My conversations with Vanderbilt students helped me realize this was the right place for me, and I would absolutely do that all over again.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
One thing I would change is dedicating more time and effort to preparing for the GMAT/GRE and brushing up my quant skills. For many applicants, including myself, this can be a challenging area, but a strong test score combined with a compelling personal story can significantly enhance your application. Not only does it improve your chances of admission, but it also opens doors to better scholarship opportunities and strengthens your profile during recruiting. For international students, I highly recommend putting your best effort into these exams and submitting your strongest score.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
The exam preparation process was definitely the toughest part for me, and if I could have skipped it, I would have! However, what really helped me get through it was having a strong support system. My best friend acted as my accountability buddy, helping me stay on track with my study schedule and ensuring I was thoroughly prepared before the exam. Having someone to push me and keep me motivated made all the difference.
What is your initial impression of the Vanderbilt Owen students/culture/community?
My initial impression of the Vanderbilt Owen community is that it is incredibly welcoming and accommodating. The sense of camaraderie is strong, and it’s evident in how students, professors, and alumni interact with one another. The smaller cohort size fosters deeper connections, and I’ve been particularly impressed by how actively involved and supportive the second years MBAs are. They are genuinely nice people who are always willing to extend a helping hand, whether it’s for academic guidance or navigating any personal challenges. The collaborative and inclusive culture truly makes Owen feel like a close-knit family.
What is one thing you have learned about Vanderbilt Owen that has surprised you?
One thing that has pleasantly surprised me about Owen is the strong sense of community fostered by its smaller, close-knit environment. I didn’t fully appreciate how impactful this would be until I joined. As an international student, it’s been invaluable to not only build strong relationships with classmates, but also to engage deeply with professors, career coaches, and staff who genuinely care about my success. The accessibility of resources, combined with personalized support, makes a significant difference in both professional and personal development, allowing each of us to make the most of our experience here.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I’m a bit anxious about the recruitment process overshadowing the many exciting opportunities that an MBA offers. I tend to feel anxious and stressed more easily, so I’m hoping to find a balance between managing the demands of recruiting and fully enjoying the diverse experiences available during my first year.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m excited to dive into all the events, resources, and opportunities that Vanderbilt and Owen have to offer. My goal is to spend this year exploring and understanding everything available, so that in my second year, once the recruiting process is behind me, I can fully immerse myself in the activities and experiences I’ve discovered.
