Manan Dhaundiyal, MBA ’24, India
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Basic Information
- Name: Manan Dhaundiyal
- Program and year: MBA ’24
- Nationality: Indian
- Previous education background (university and major): Hispanic Literature
- Previous or current company and role: Account Manager at GroupM and Dentsu
Interview Questions
- Tell us about yourself.
I am a final-year MBA candidate at Schulich School of Business. I have a highly diverse background and a versatile skillset. I am fluent in three languages, I have worked as a Spanish-English interpreter, I have been the founder of a photography start-up and I have worked for over 7 years in the advertising industry. Beyond my professional pursuits, I’m passionate about street photography and volunteering for causes such as child education and climate change. My biggest achievement in life is empowering over 100 underprivileged children at shelter homes in India to pass middle school through classroom teaching. I’m an individual dedicated to making a lasting positive change in the world through a collaborative approach, leading by example and a purpose-driven outlook.
- Why did you decide to pursue an MBA program at this point of your career?
After working for 7 years in the advertising industry, I found myself at a pivotal juncture. One path led me along the conventional trajectory of professional growth within the industry, while the other beckoned towards a more ambitious goal of equipping myself with advanced business acumen and leadership prowess to emerge as a visionary leader in the field of marketing. It is with this vision of transformative growth that I viewed MBA as an indispensable steppingstone in my career. My decision to pursue an MBA, when I was already a mid-level manager, was a strategic choice that aligned seamlessly with both my immediate and long-term aspirations.
- Why Schulich?
Reflecting on my decision to pursue an MBA at Schulich School of Business, I realize that my criteria for selecting a business school was based on 3 main factors-
- Networking opportunities – Schulich’s strategic location near Toronto’s business hubs significantly enriched my networking capabilities. I knew that easy accessibility to downtown Toronto, coupled with Schulich’s diverse community, would catalyze invaluable connections that would be instrumental during my MBA journey and indeed they continue to foster professional opportunities for me today.
- Faculty excellence – After my coffee chats with a few faculty members at Schulich and attending some of their demo lectures I realized how reputed Schulich’s faculty is and I was sure that it will offer me an unparalleled academic experience. Being mentored by professors who served as consultants and advisors to world leaders and global organizations profoundly influenced my career trajectory during my MBA, providing me with a rich blend of theoretical knowledge and practical wisdom.
- Innovative curriculum – Schulich’s commitment to experiential learning profoundly influenced my MBA choice. I was certain that the seamless integration of classroom theory with hands-on business projects would provide me with unparalleled opportunities to apply academic insights in tangible, real-world settings which distinguished Schulich as the clear frontrunner for my B-School decision.
- What word or phrase describes your Schulich experience so far?
My experience at Schulich can be described as “Transformative”. Immersed in a dynamic blend of theory and practice, nurtured by diverse perspectives, and inspired by faculty of the highest caliber, I’ve evolved from a skilled practitioner to a strategic thinker at Schulich. My approach to problem-solving and my leadership capability have immensely evolved through my Schulich experience. Schulich has endowed me with profound business acumen and cultivated a heightened sense of leading through example, propelling me to strive towards purpose-driven transformations.
- What have you enjoyed the most about Schulich’s MBA program?
The Schulich community has been the best part of my Schulich MBA journey. I have made strong connections here and have made friends for life. The diversity of thought that this Schulich community has brought into my life transcends beyond MBA. It is a melting pot of ideas and experiences that has provided me with a profound experience that I could not have experienced anywhere else.
- What is your plan after graduation and how has Schulich helped with that?
Currently, as I move towards graduating with an MBA from Schulich, I have been able to secure 2 full-time job offers – an ad-tech role in a major advertising company in Canada and the other is a B2B marketing consulting role in a Canadian logistics company. I plan to choose either of the two offers and kickstart my career in Canada. Throughout the past 2 years Schulich’s resources have been pivotal in adapting to the Canadian job market. Transitioning from India, the support from the faculty and a proactive and robust alumni network have been instrumental in bridging cultural gaps and tailoring my career approach. This nurturing environment has ensured a seamless transition and a strong start to my Canadian career. In essence, Schulich has been the launchpad for my professional journey, nurturing the skills and connections vital for my ascent in the Canadian business arena.
- What would you like prospective students to know about Schulich’s MBA program?
Prospective students should know that Schulich’s MBA program is a crucible for transformation, meticulously designed to bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world practice. It offers a diverse, supportive community, unparalleled networking opportunities within Toronto’s business landscape, and access to globally respected faculty. This program doesn’t just teach you; it immerses you in a culture of innovation, where you’re constantly challenged to apply your learning, develop strategic thinking, and grow into a leader equipped to navigate and influence the ever-evolving global business environment. It’s more than an education—it’s preparation for a lifetime of impact.
- What advice do you have for someone who considers pursuing an MBA/Master program at Schulich?
For those considering an MBA at Schulich, my advice is to embrace the journey with an open mind and a proactive spirit. Leverage the diverse network and engage with the faculty whose insights are invaluable. Immerse yourself in the experiential learning opportunities; they are transformative. Be prepared to be challenged and to grow—not just intellectually but personally. Take advantage of the career resources and alumni network to guide your professional path. Remember, your Schulich experience will be as rich and rewarding as the energy and passion you invest into it. It’s a steppingstone to a future of boundless possibilities.