About Avik
Hometown: Avon, CT
Previous Degree: Degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering
Previous University: Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Q: Tell me about your background before your MBA
ONE: I grew up in Connecticut and moved to Massachusetts to pursue a degree in electrical and computer engineering. I wanted to work in computer engineering and be in a field where I could make a positive impact. I work for a medical technology company that focuses on breast cancer surgery. I know that my work improves people's lives and I think it is a good step towards future opportunities in the medical field where I can continue to make a positive impact.
Q: Why did you choose D'Amore-McKim?
ONE: A collaborative and inclusive environment is important to me. Coming from an Indian background, I wanted a school that emphasized diversity and inclusion. I also wanted to continue the project-based curriculum from my undergrad. D'Amore-McKim's focus on experiential learning seemed like a great way to further develop my communication and teamwork skills. My employer works with Northeastern Cooperatives, so I was aware of Northeastern's strong relationship with various organizations in the area. I loved the way D'Amore-McKim prepares students for the challenges they face in the corporate world through an experiential curriculum. I learn best when I can apply what I've learned immediately.
Q: You earned your MS from Northeastern. Why did you decide to pursue your MBA next?
ONE: I really enjoyed the Master's program, so returning to Northeastern was an easy choice. The part-time MBA program was right for me at the time, both professionally and financially, as I could attend classes during the week after my work hours. The ability to stack the credits I earned during my graduate program and apply them to my MBA was invaluable and made the whole process much more convenient. After earning my MS, I worked at a start-up where I was exposed to new areas of entrepreneurship that I hadn't dealt with before. I thought back to those core courses I took at D'Amore-McKim and realized that I wanted to contribute to these conversations outside of my field.
Q: How did you apply your MBA in your current position?
ONE: Northeastern's faculty emphasizes how to apply our courses to real-world scenarios. The MBA courses have prepared me for new responsibilities. I have learned a lot about the operations of other departments besides my own, giving me a more holistic view of all parts of a business. I also understand my company and the biotech sector better because I could relate my courses to my professional work. I can now confidently make decisions that positively affect the future of the company. Ultimately, I hope to move into a leadership role and my MBA courses have been a great asset as I pursue this goal.
Q: Would you recommend the part-time MBA program to prospective students?
ONE: Absolutely. The professors here are incredible and really care about our further education and careers. They are always available outside of class for extra support and to answer questions about their work experience. There is a real sense of community with your professors and peers. I started my graduate experience in a master's degree program and was nervous that the other students already knew each other and it would be difficult to get involved. I didn't have to worry about that—there were so many social gatherings and I got to know my peers right away. I credit this to Northeastern's focus on inclusion and community. I have met people from many different backgrounds and industries and we have a lot to learn from each other.
