From U of M Cancer Research Scientist to Full-time UST MBA Student: Interview with Anishka Jayaswal
By Sandra Forsyth, Full-time UST MBA Assistant Directors of Admissions
Anishka Jayaswal graduated from Macalester College in 2003 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Biology. Since then she's worked at the University of Minnesota's Biotechnology Training Program. She put her Biology degree to work, in the area of Basic Cancer Research. After three years, she began to identify herself as a biotechnologist and came to the realization that she needed an MBA from the University of St. Thomas. I had the opportunity to sit down and talk with first-year Full-time UST MBA student Anishka Jayaswal.
Why did you choose the UST MBA program?
I was accepted into both the Full-time UST MBA program and the Carlson School of Management. I chose the UST MBA program for a number of reasons. First off, I really liked the small learning community that UST has to offer. The small class sizes were appealing; I felt comfort in the small class sizes because it reminded me a lot of the undergraduate courses. The emphasis on ethics, responsibility, professionalism, and excellence were all factors in my decision. Like any top MBA program, UST provides a relevant, useful education of exceptional quality. I also wanted to take a step back from my involvement with the University of Minnesota. I knew deep down the UST MBA program was my calling.
You have attended class for one week now. Describe the academic rigor of the UST MBA program?
I started to feel the academic rigor of the program when I started the reading. The first challenge was to keep up on the reading. I came to the realization that I needed a plan. I needed to learn how to manage my time and make the best of it so I could keep up on the readings, prepare for discussions, and complete the additional homework assignments. If you work extremely hard to keep up on your reading assignments and make an effort to become actively engaged in the class discussions, the classes are more manageable. Of course, if you do not prepare for class, you'll be lost!
One thing I keep telling myself is: "Do as much as I can. I owe it to myself. I am the only person who can benefit from this!"
What is a typical day like for you?
I'm still working on getting into the swing of things. We've only had class for one week, but this is my typical day so far. I arrive at school at about 7:30 am each morning and do not leave until after all of my classes, usually around 5:15 pm. Even after going home, my day isn't over. I take a relaxing break by watching TV. CNBC, the local news, and Mad Money are programs that keep me up to speed on the news and current events. I then spend the rest of my evening reading, participating in blackboard discussions and preparing for tomorrow's classes.
What are your long term goals? What expectations do you have of the UST MBA program?
After working at the University of Minnesota I realized my passion lies in Biotechnology. My long term goals are to focus my studies in the area of Finance with hopes of graduating from the UST MBA program in 2008. I would really like to have a career within a larger Corporate Biotech Company in the area of Finance. A Chief Financial Officer position would be incredible!
If you could give one piece of advice to a UST MBA prospective student, what would it be?
When you are thinking about apply to graduate programs, do your research. Find a graduate MBA program that works for you! If you decide to apply to the UST MBA program, play off your strengths, as well as your weaknesses. Keep in mind that everyone has something to add to the UST MBA program. Make the best out of your interview and the admissions staff will see what an asset you'll be to the program!
|
