Anureet Kaur Mann, Rotman MBA Class of 2026
Age: 25 years
Hometown: Chandigarh, India
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Bachelor of Commerce (Hons.), Shri Ram College of Commerce, Delhi University
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Senior Consultant, Dalberg Advisors (4 years) (Held the role of an Analyst, Associate Consultant, Consultant, and Senior Consultant during tenure)
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
As a former social entrepreneur and impact consultant, I have spent the past few years working on diverse projects aimed at advancing social welfare. A key takeaway from this experience was the importance of business acumen in addressing development challenges and leveraging the intersection of business and social welfare to engage the private sector. This realization led me to pursue an MBA to deepen my understanding of business strategy
Why did you choose Toronto Rotman? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose Rotman MBA because I wanted a program that excels in academic quality while emphasizing soft skill development and a commitment to classroom diversity. For me, soft skills coaching is essential to strengthening my ability to navigate the complexity and dynamism of the changing business environment as I advance in my career. The diverse cohort at Rotman—bringing together people from various countries, socioeconomic backgrounds, and cultures—creates a rich exchange of perspectives, enhancing my ability to collaborate effectively with international stakeholders. Rotman’s Full TimeMBA program stands out for meeting these criteria, with offerings like the ‘Self-Development Lab,’ which I see as invaluable to my growth. Additionally, studying in one of the world’s top educational systems excites me.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2026?
I believe my most valuable contribution to the Class of 2026 is my perspective on the social implications of business decisions, shaped by my background in social impact. While I acknowledge that there are others with similar experiences, we are still in the minority in the classroom. I feel my ability to bring a social impact lens to discussions—for subjects such as strategy— is a valuable addition.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I’m an avid animal lover, though it seems the feeling isn’t always mutual—haha! I’ve been bitten by dogs (twice), stung by honeybees (also twice), nearly attacked by a cat, and even stung by a jellyfish… the list goes on!
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Introspect! Rotman’s application essay is unique in asking applicants to highlight their ‘spike factors.’ When I began writing my first draft, I realized how generic it felt—I hadn’t taken the time to truly introspect or seek insights from family and friends. Putting in that effort helped me elevate my application and discover aspects of myself I’d previously considered just part of my general personality!
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
If I were to go through the application process again, I would start earlier. Due to some professional commitments, I couldn’t begin working on my essay as early as I had planned. As a result, I felt the time pressure to introspect, organize my thoughts, and refine them within the word limits all at once. I would recommend starting early so you can take a more thoughtful, sequential approach to each part of the application. This advice applies not just to Rotman, but to any B-school you may be considering.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Actually, there’s nothing I would have skipped. I thoroughly enjoyed the entire application process. It was an opportunity for self-reflection, and I appreciated every part of it. The process helped me better understand my goals and motivations, and I found it incredibly rewarding.
What is your initial impression of the Toronto Rotman students/culture/community?
My initial impression of the Rotman community is one of strong camaraderie and support. It feels like a well-functioning, united unit. We have outstanding professors who are dedicated to helping students collectively and individually, career coaches who are deeply invested in our success, and upper-year students who have gone out of their way to welcome and guide us as we navigate B-school life. The classroom is incredibly diverse, filled with accomplished yet down-to-earth individuals, making it an inspiring environment. Overall, the sense of community at Rotman is truly amazing.
What is one thing you have learned about Toronto Rotman that has surprised you?
One thing that has genuinely surprised me about Toronto Rotman is the level of support available at every level. For any question or challenge I face, there’s always someone who’s willing to invest their time and effort to help. This kind of holistic support system has made a big difference, and I’m incredibly grateful for it.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I wouldn’t say I’m anxious, but one thing I’m still trying to figure out is how to balance the academic workload with networking, recruiting, and participating in case competitions. The demands of the MBA program are intense, and I want to ensure I’m able to capitalize on the many opportunities in the program. Finding that balance is a challenge I’m focused on navigating this year.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m most excited about the learning! We’re almost halfway through our second term at Rotman, and I’ve already studied five subjects while actively working through three more. The faculty and curriculum are outstanding, and the emphasis on bringing real-world applications into the classroom makes the experience incredibly enriching. Beyond that, in the ~3 months I have spent in the program, I have already participated in three very diverse case competitions, all of which have helped me apply classroom learnings in a real business scenario.
