Bhari Cowlagi, Tepper Part-Time MSBA
Age: 23
Hometown: Fort Collins, Colorado
Undergraduate Institution and Major: University of Colorado – Boulder; BBS Business Administration
Pre-MSBA Work Experience: Marketing Writer, University of Colorado – Boulder, 2 years; Sales Operations Associate, Visa Inc., 1.5 years
Expected Graduation Year: May 2026
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I decided to pursue business school now because I’m highly motivated to build on the momentum I’ve gained from recently graduating undergrad. I felt it was the ideal time for me to continue my studies and dive deeper into business analytics, an area I’m passionate about. I want to expand my quantitative skill set and develop a robust data toolkit, which I believe will be crucial for my future career. I’m also eager to learn from top-tier instructors and experts in the field, ensuring I receive the best possible education to prepare me for the challenges ahead.
Why did you choose Carnegie Mellon Tepper? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I first became aware of Carnegie Mellon while researching top business analytics programs during my undergrad. I was drawn to the Tepper School for its unique tech focus and interdisciplinary approach, which aligns perfectly with my background and career goals. The emphasis on leadership, innovation, and the opportunity to collaborate with like-minded peers in Pittsburgh’s thriving tech ecosystem made the Tepper School the ideal fit. It also helped that my brother chose to go to Carnegie Mellon too (he’s currently an undergrad in ECE!) All in all, I chose Carnegie Mellon and the Tepper School as I believed the school’s resources and community will help me achieve my goals in business analytics.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the class?
I’d say a unique contribution I bring to the class is my well-rounded background in both marketing and data analytics. Having experience in both these fields, I believe I’ve gained a creative approach to data problems, and this blend of experience allows me to approach problems from both a creative and analytical perspective. I also bring a passion for bridging strategic and responsible business decisions—corporate responsibility is something that I care about, and I hope to continue to contribute distinctive viewpoints that consider impactful solutions in the intersection of these interests of mine.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I am a huge skincare fanatic and love to try all different kinds of skincare!
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 is take the time to deeply reflect on my career goals and how the program aligns with them. Writing my application essays became a valuable exercise in self-discovery, as I walked away with a clearer vision of what I wanted from my MSBA experience.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I definitely would have made a stronger step-by-step plan of how I wanted to complete the different parts of the application process! I am extremely grateful for the admissions for extending a lot of flexibility to me and helping me get my application in!
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
As cliche as it sounds, I don’t think I’d skip anything! Sure there are things that were tedious or frustrating, but I’d like to count that as crucial parts of my development and personal learning.
–How has the program’s flexibility enabled you to pursue your personal and professional goals without compromising your work-life balance?
The program’s flexibility has been game-changing. The ability to adjust coursework around my schedule has allowed me to grow professionally without putting my personal life on hold. The support from faculty and peers also helps to balance everything effectively.
–How do you manage to balance the demands of the program with your professional responsibilities, and what strategies have worked best for you?
For me, I balance the demands of the program with personal responsibility by time-blocking (and sticking to my time-blocks as much as possible). Schoolwork and class project meetings go on my calendar, and I protect that time.
–How has the online format of the program allowed you to immediately apply what you’re learning to your current role and advance your career?
The online classes usually follow a full day of work to accommodate our lives as working professionals; usually I wind down after a long day by reflecting on the big events of the workday (including projects and meeting events), and so when I attend online class after, I end up connecting course content to my reflections. The online format, in this way, has effectively added to my toolkit of skills that I can use right away to bring more value to myself and my work.
–Despite being in a remote program, how have you built meaningful connections with peers, faculty, or mentors, and how has this sense of community enriched your experience?
At first, I worried that being remote might feel isolating, and that I might not connect well with my class, but the program fosters connection in so many ways. From interactive class discussions to lively Whatsapp channels, I’ve found the community incredibly engaging and supportive. We’ve built friendships and collaborated with each other on projects. I think we are all like-minded, driven people who genuinely want to see each other succeed.
–What is one thing you have learned about Carnegie Mellon Tepper that has surprised you?
I came to the Tepper School knowing its strengths in analytics and innovation, but I was pleasantly surprised to see the emphasis on career support and development. The program is there for you if you need advice on many kinds of career questions, during the program and beyond.
