Background
Coming from remote city of Azerbaijan, my journey to our MBA program has been one fueled by ambition and childhood dream. Ever since my high school days, I always had purpose of obtaining an education in the US. While I couldn’t fulfill my aspiration for my undergraduate studies, I proudly earned my degree in Finance from Azerbaijan State Economic University. Throughout my four years there, I was honored as a President Scholar as a result of my academic performance.
In the last year of my undergraduate studies, I started a new chapter of my career life at Deloitte & Touche LLC, where I joined the Risk Advisory department as a Consultant. Here, I had the privilege of collaborating with some of Azerbaijan’s largest companies across various industries. Working closely with management teams, I led projects both internally and for our clients, gaining invaluable experience along the way.
After immersing myself in the corporate world for around two years, I made the decision to revisit my childhood aspiration and pursue further education in the US.
Career Goal
Starting my MBA journey, I was determined to specialize in investment within finance while leveraging my background in consulting. Thanks to the comprehensive career sessions with our center and the guidance of exceptional professors, I was able to immerse myself in the investment management field. I eagerly anticipated the chance to apply it in real-world scenarios.
Last May marked a significant milestone as I joined American Family Insurance as a Strategy Development intern. Since then, I’ve been collaborating with my team on various projects, delving deep into industry analysis and strategic decision-making. We are monitoring industry trends closely to proactively identify opportunities and devise strategic moves that align with the company’s objectives while meeting management’s expectations.
MBA Program Experience
Reflecting on my two-year journey within the MBA program, I am filled with gratitude for the enriching experiences and lasting friendships that have shaped my time here. Despite the demanding workload, I fully embraced student life, immersing myself in a variety of activities that brought me joy and fulfillment.
One of the highlights was being elected as the Vice President of the Graduate Business Association, the largest graduate student association on campus. In this leadership role, I had the privilege of serving for positive change within our student community. By spearheading initiatives aimed at enhancing student services and organizing engaging activities, I hope I contributed to the collective enjoyment of our time here. As a liaison among various graduate student organizations, I used my teamwork and leadership skills, learning to collaborate effectively with diverse teams and provide support whenever needed.
My role as a student ambassador further allowed me to extend a helping hand to incoming students, guiding them through the transition and equipping them with essential information to navigate their academic journey.
Taking on the responsibility of an international mentor was a particularly rewarding experience for me. It afforded me the opportunity to share my background and insights with our incoming students, fostering a sense of community and belonging. Witnessing the growth and success of those I mentored brought me immense satisfaction and pride.
Beyond my official roles, I seized every opportunity to engage with my peers, whether through organizing events, participating in case competitions, or advocating for the needs of international students. These interactions not only deepened my connections within the community but also enriched my overall experience, leaving me with cherished memories and invaluable lessons learned.
As I look back on my time in the MBA program, I am grateful for the countless opportunities for personal and professional growth it has afforded me.
Most Memorable Experience
Undoubtedly, one of the most memorable and fulfilling chapters of my MBA journey was my time as the Vice President of the Graduate Business Association (GBA). Together with our dedicated board members, I had the privilege of taking initiatives aimed at fostering inclusivity and enhancing student services within our community. Witnessing the tangible impact of our efforts, as our program became more inclusive and responsive to the needs of our students, was truly rewarding.
Another impactful aspect of my journey was the opportunity to share my insights and experiences as a guest speaker on various panels. From orientation week sessions for incoming MBA and Masters students to speaking engagements for prospective international students, each opportunity allowed me to offer valuable perspectives and guidance. However, one moment stands out among the rest: being invited by a former student, for whom I had served as a TA, to speak on a panel about inclusive leadership for undergraduates. The pride and joy I felt in that moment were indescribable.
Perhaps the most rewarding revelation of my journey was my discovery of a passion for teaching during my time as a TA at the university. The opportunity to impart knowledge and inspire students filled me with a sense of purpose and fulfillment. The positive feedback received from my students at the end of each semester served as a powerful validation of my efforts and impacted my determination to pursue teaching as a potential long-term career path.
Favorite Class
Investment Banking & Capital Markets, and Merger & Acquisitions classes, led by Professor Brad Chandler, that I took this year were my favorite classes of all time. Despite the rigorous demands of the coursework, I found immense satisfaction in delving deep into the details of the investment field and gaining practical insights that I could apply in real-world cases. Professor Chandler’s expertise and industry insights were invaluable, providing a comprehensive understanding of complex concepts and their practical applications. While the assignments required dedication and effort, I approached them with enthusiasm, knowing that the knowledge and skills gained would be invaluable assets in my future career.
Advice for Incoming Students
To all incoming students thinking of an MBA in UW-Madison, I suggest you seize every moment and experience what awaits you in Madison. Whether you’re immersed in heavy coursework or navigating the job search process, cherish each challenge as an opportunity- the late nights spent in Grainger or these moments of celebrating the victories that come from your hard work and determination.
But amidst the hustle and bustle, don’t forget to spend some time with your friends, whether it’s exploring the city of Madison or simply venting over coffee at a Capital café.
Above all, take the opportunity on leadership roles in student organizations, volunteer for initiatives that ignite your passion. These experiences will not only broaden your horizons but also will create lasting memories. As you start your MBA program, remember that it’s not just about the destination, but the journey itself.
Hobbies
Outside of my MBA commitments, I find joy in pursuing various hobbies that allow me to connect with my friends. One of my favorite activities is attending our weekly TAPS gatherings, where I catch up with friends and enjoy each other’s company in a relaxed setting. Exploring the beautiful parts of Madison on bike rides with friends is another cherished hobby of mine. I love enjoying nature and sharing those moments with people who share my appreciation for the outdoors. When I’m in the mood for some physical activity, you’ll often find me at the Nicholas Recreation Center, playing badminton with friends. I also love sampling the diverse cuisines offered by the city and talk about different cuisines each of our country has with my international friends. I have a passion for travel and exploration. During breaks from my studies, I seize the opportunity to embark on adventures across the United States, immersing myself in different cultures and landscapes.
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