Four years ago, I embarked on a life-changing adventure, leaving India’s familiar shores and bustling streets to pursue an MBA at Duke University. This blog chronicles my journey over the last four years, divided into four chapters, each highlighting a distinct phase of my experience. Prepare to be whisked away in a whirlwind tour as I delve into the ups and downs, the challenges and triumphs, and the valuable lessons I learned along the way.

Chapter 1: Fast-Forward to the Future

It feels like yesterday when I reveled in quintessential Duke experiences like late-night study sessions, caffeine-fueled debates, mind-bending case studies, and the oh-so-satisfying feeling of nailing a presentation.

As I walked down the carpet in Cameron Indoor Stadium, celebrating my graduation from Fuqua’s Accelerated Daytime MBA (AMBA) program, I reminisced how my experience at Duke changed me from being a wide-eyed international student traveling from a small city in India to a strong, confident young professional ready to take on the world. Just as I took my final step to get on the stage — proud as a peacock to accept the diploma I had been aspiring towards for the past few years — my heel caught on my dress, sending shockwaves through my spine as I struggled to stop myself from falling. As embarrassed as I was, I quickly recovered.

Duke had one final lesson to teach me: to stay humble during your success and face difficulties with grace. I took a deep breath, brushed it off, and proudly accepted my diploma to the encouraging cheers of all my family and friends who had flown long distances to celebrate with me. The resilience honed at Duke allowed me to brush off the incident and continue with confidence.

Both the MMS and AMBA programs have been a fulfilling journey of professional growth, personal development, and reconnecting with the incredible Duke community. I was recently featured in the Financial Times article, sharing my thoughts on how the MMS and MBA programs have opened doors to more senior roles and increased responsibilities.

The past few years have been a rollercoaster of emotions. I arrived in the United States in 2020, filled with hope, fear, and excitement. The journey has been marked by many challenges, countless hours of hard work, and brief moments of immense joy. Boy, was each moment worth it!

I’ve weathered storms, celebrated triumphs, and learned valuable lessons along the way. I am thankful for the unwavering support of my mother, brother, and closest friends, who have been my pillars of strength. A special thanks to my late father, whose memory continues to inspire me. His belief in me was unwavering, and I know he was beaming with pride from above as I walked across the stage during my graduation ceremony.

Duke didn’t just give me a degree; it gave me a superpower. It’s the ability to tackle challenges, build relationships, and turn ambitious ideas into reality. And for that, I’m eternally grateful. The rigorous academic curriculum, vibrant campus life, and, of course, my brilliant classmates shaped me into the person I am today.

Chapter 2: From Academia to Industry

Post-graduation, I embarked on a thrilling journey and ventured into the world of private equity, immersing myself in Miami’s fast-paced and dynamic environment. This experience honed my financial acumen and strategic thinking abilities. However, as opportunities unfolded, I was drawn to Schneider Electric, a leading global energy management and automation company. As a senior project manager, I’ve had the privilege of leading high-impact Data Center projects, managing cross-functional teams, and overseeing multi-million-dollar budgets.

I’ve been fortunate to contribute to strategic initiatives, develop innovative processes, and mentor talented individuals. The cross-functional teams I manage, comprising 40+ gifted individuals, are a testament to the collaborative spirit I cultivated at Duke. As Coach Mike Krzyzewski, the legendary former Duke men’s basketball coach and widely regarded GOAT (greatest of all time), said, “You develop a team to achieve what one person cannot accomplish alone. All of us alone are weaker, by far than if all of us are together.”

The strategic thinking, problem-solving skills, and leadership acumen I honed at Duke are my secret weapons in this high-stakes game.

Chapter 3: Building Bridges and Fueling the Next Generation of Duke Leaders

While my professional journey has been exhilarating, I’ve remained deeply committed to the Duke community. In 2024, I had the privilege of organizing the annual Fuqua Around the World event in San Francisco. It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with current students and fellow alums, share insights, foster relationships, and inspire the next generation of Duke leaders.

Beyond the organized events, I’m actively engaged with the Duke alumni network through informal meet-ups and online forums. These interactions have not only enriched my professional life but have also provided invaluable support and friendship.

Chapter 4: The Power of the Duke Network

The Duke MBA program is more than just a degree; it’s a lifelong journey. The strong bonds I forged with my classmates and the invaluable lessons I learned continue to shape my career trajectory. This community has proven invaluable, opening doors to new opportunities, and providing guidance at every step.

Whether mentoring aspiring professionals, volunteering for community initiatives, or simply connecting with fellow alums, I’m committed to making a positive impact. As I look to the future, I’m grateful for the foundation Duke provided me. It’s a foundation that has empowered me to dream big, work hard, and achieve my goals.

The university’s commitment to excellence, diversity, and leadership development has shaped me into who I am today. I’m excited to continue contributing to the Duke community, mentoring aspiring professionals, positively impacting the world, and, of course, shattering the ceilings along the way.