Anjali Nadeswaran, NYU Stern MBA Class of 2026
Age: 26
Hometown: Irvine, California
Undergraduate Institution and Major: UC Berkeley, Economics (Minor in Data Science)
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Management Consulting Associate, PricewaterhouseCoopers, 1 year; Senior GTM Strategy Analyst, Zuora, 2 years
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I decided to attend business school when I realized I wanted to work at an early stage startup. After working in consulting and a public software company, I think I have developed a good understanding of how a successful business is run. I believe business school is a great opportunity to now gain knowledge of how to set up and develop a company to get to this stage – with classes and clubs focused on everything from how to get funding to early strategic and financial initiatives.
Why did you choose NYU Stern? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose Stern because I felt an immediate connection to the student body. Current students were more than willing to chat with me before I was even accepted into the program. They confirmed my belief that Stern offered a global and comprehensive perspective on business and a collaborative environment to learn in. Part of being in New York City means that Stern attracts incredible professors, students, and alumni that are leaders in most industries and job functions. For someone looking to expand their knowledge across industries and roles, this was a huge draw.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2026?
I think my background in technology offers a different perspective to a school that might have formerly been connected to more traditional business like finance and consulting. After working for a software company and living in the Bay Area for the last 7 years, I have knowledge and experience from the fast-paced technology industry that I am eager to share with my classmates.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I have lived in California my whole life – I’m excited to be in New York but nervous for my first real winter!
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Talk to current students! It was very helpful to get a sense of the school’s culture and opportunities from current MBA students – they were very honest and gave me a good understanding of what student life would be like.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
If I could go back in time, I would start my applications earlier. It takes time to learn about each school before even starting the application process – I think the earlier you begin your research, the better.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I would have skipped the waiting! The timelines that schools release decisions vary by school and year. It’s hard not to get anxious waiting to hear back from schools, but it helped to find a community of prospective students online who were in the same position that I was.
What is your initial impression of the NYU stern students/culture/community?
Stern students are extremely friendly and collaborative. The community is committed to helping each other out, whether it’s in classwork, recruiting, or even life outside of the program.
What is one thing you have learned about NYU Stern that has surprised you?
Stern is even more global than I previously thought. Not only does Stern have a large international community, but it offers countless opportunities to learn and work abroad through classes, experiential learning, and more.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I am anxious about recruiting for a summer internship since there are such tight timelines. Recruiting begins almost immediately, but student organizations are committed to helping us get our applications and interview material all lined up to make this process as easy as possible.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m most excited about joining the many student organizations that Stern has to offer. I can’t wait for things like the Supper Series with the Arts and Culture Club where the organization’s board cooks for its new members, and the annual ski trip with the Adventures Club.
