Navya Tharachandy, MMGT 24′, India
Basic Information
- Name: Navya Tharachandy
- Program and year: Master of Management 24’
- Nationality: Indian
- Previous education background: Bachelor of Engineering in Industrial Engineering and Management from Visveswaraya Technological University (VTU)
- Previous or current company and role: Operations Manager at Amazon
Interview Questions
- Tell us about yourself.
I’m Navya Tharachandy, and like many of you, I embarked on an exciting journey of self-discovery and professional growth. After completing my Bachelor’s in Industrial Engineering and Management in 2021 in Bangalore, I explored the corporate world with Amazon, developing skills in Operations and Project management. Eventually the drive for personal growth brought me to Canada, stepping out of my home city for the first time. As an international student, I’ve experienced a rollercoaster of emotions, but each challenge has shaped me into a more confident individual. My passions – dancing, anime, art, and aspiring content creation – keep me motivated. I hope my story inspires you to embrace the uncertainties and opportunities of university life, reminding you that every challenge is a chance to grow and redefine yourself.
- Why did you decide to pursue a Master program at this point of your career?
In my role as an Operations Manager at Amazon, I realized the importance of deepening my understanding of business dynamics, cost structures, and team management to enhance my effectiveness as a leader. Recognizing that continuous learning is key to professional advancement, I decided that now is the ideal time to pursue an MBA/Master program. With both of my parents nearing retirement, I have the support and opportunity to dedicate the next two years to enrich my skills and knowledge. Enrolling in the Masters program at Schulich is a strategic step for me to upskill and prepare for the exciting challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in my career.
- Why Schulich?
While exploring my options I was considering how to narrow down on a specialization. Since there was no specific domain that I particularly wanted to pursue, I was looking for a program that provides a comprehensive understanding of the business world. With my background not rooted in business, I was looking for a course that could offer an end-to-end foundation. After thorough research, the MMgt program at Schulich stood out for its well-crafted syllabus tailored for individuals like me – those with less than two years of experience and from a non-business background. It seemed like the perfect bridge to connect my past experiences with my future aspirations in business management. Schulich’s reputation for delivering top-notch education further solidified my decision.
- What word or phrase describes your Schulich experience so far?
Metamorphosis! (Fun fact: My name in Korean means Butterfly, so I guess there is a solid connection here 😊)
- What have you enjoyed the most about Schulich’s Master program?
One of my biggest apprehensions as an international student was whether I would be able to blend into the new environment and form meaningful friendships. To my delight, not only did I find incredible friends at Schulich, but I also created unforgettable memories with them. Schulich has been a gateway to a multitude of experiences, enriching my university life beyond academics. I eagerly dived into various activities, from auditioning for the Case Team – and making it to the top 16 on my first try – to embracing my artistic side in Music and Dance at the Culture Fest organized by the Graduate Business Council (GBC). Participating in team sports during GBC athletics events has been equally thrilling. Each of these experiences has contributed to making my time at Schulich truly memorable, offering a perfect blend of learning, cultural exchange, and fun.
- What is your plan after graduation and how has Schulich helped with that?
After graduation, my goal is to carve out a successful career in the Supply Chain/Operations field. Leveraging my prior experience in this domain, Schulich is instrumental in shaping me into a well-rounded business professional, crucial for my career advancement. In just the first semester, I’ve gained invaluable insights and confidence in key areas like macroeconomics, financial accounting, business communications, managerial decision making, and sustainability in business. These are critical skills that I anticipate will be integral in my future business roles. I’m excited about the learning journey ahead, especially the Enterprise Consulting Project in the upcoming term. This project offers a unique opportunity to work with a real-world client, providing practical experience that’s vital in today’s business landscape. I believe Schulich’s Masters program isn’t just about academics; it’s a transformative experience that prepares you for real-world success and leadership in the global business arena.
- What would you like prospective students to know about Schulich’s Master program?
For students considering the MMgt Program at Schulich, it’s important to understand that it’s crafted to offer a holistic business education. This means you’ll delve into a variety of topics, some of which may be new or outside your immediate area of interest. However, every course is valuable, broadening your understanding of different business aspects you might encounter in your career. The program is intensive and content-rich, designed not just to impart knowledge but also to refine your skills in time management and multitasking. Each assignment and project is an opportunity to polish your capabilities further. Schulich provides an abundance of resources to support your learning journey. Remember, one-year programs fly by quickly, so it’s crucial to immerse yourself fully and enjoy every moment of this transformative experience.
- What advice do you have for someone who is considering pursuing a Master program at Schulich?
If you are someone with less than two years of work experience and a desire to excel as a business professional, Schulich’s MMgt program could be the ideal launching pad for your long-term career aspirations in the business world. This program offers a unique blend of diverse course offerings, enabling you to explore and refine your interests in various business domains. It’s not just about academic learning; Schulich provides a dynamic platform for networking, a crucial aspect of professional growth. Here, you’ll find opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals, and discover your true passion. My advice to anyone considering this path is to embrace every opportunity that comes your way at Schulich, as it’s these experiences that will shape your career and future in the business world.