Q&A with Shubha Pratiwadibhayankar, TMMBA student

Shubha PratiwadibhayankarShubha Pratiwadibhayankar, senior program manager at Microsoft, shares her experiences in the UW Foster School’s Technology Management MBA program.

Why did you choose the Technology Management MBA program at the Foster School?
I considered other MBA programs on the West Coast, but several factors helped me zero in on the Technology Management MBA. First, I found the fast-paced 18-month schedule perfectly suited to my needs. Second, I sat in on a class and was very impressed with the professor and the diversity, enthusiasm, and participation of the students. Third, the Eastside location was very convenient for me to get to and from work on Wednesday evenings.

How has your study group affected your experience in the TMMBA program?
My study group has been monumental in enhancing my TMMBA experience. I’ve been fortunate to be part of a study group where each of us had diverse skills and experiences, but shared a common goal to learn and excel. My study group has been a source of motivation and encouragement as we make our way through several quarters of group projects. I’ve also learned how to better plan projects, resolve disagreements, and improve my communication skills. Thanks to my study group, I’ve been exposed to fresh perspectives, great collaboration, and made friends that I’ll keep for life.

Could you tell me about your experience competing in the Business Plan Competition?
Participating in the Business Plan Competition last year was an incredible experience. The feedback we received from the judges was invaluable. In addition, I made connections with potential future co-founders and investors. If you’re even considering entrepreneurship, the Business Plan Competition is an excellent way to get your feet wet and receive some valuable advice from venture capitalists and investors.

What class has been the most useful or interesting to you so far?
A course I’ve found very useful is strategic marketing management with Professor Natalie Mizik. As someone with a computer science degree working in a product management role, marketing has always been an area I’m not strong in. The cases used in the course were very engaging and practical, and the class was always interactive. Taking this course has given me a solid framework for how to create a marketing plan for any product, and I look forward to using it at work.

Are you utilizing TMMBA’s career support? If so, how does it tie into your career goals?
The TMMBA’s career support is exceptional. I’ve received tremendous help with my resume and preparing for interviews from Elaine Mentis. Susie Buysse organizes Tech Treks to various companies in the Seattle area and I’ve been on several of them. The Tech Treks are a great way to make connections with alumni working at the company, hear from leaders, and get a feel for what the workplace looks like.

What do you think are the most convenient benefits of the TMMBA program?
The benefits I find most convenient are the delicious dinners, the fact that I don’t have to register for any classes, and that the textbooks are made available to me at the start of each quarter. The Eastside location is also a big plus!

Is there anything else you want to tell prospective students about this program?
If you’re unsure, try visiting a class! It is the easiest way to get your feet wet and experience the classroom environment first-hand.

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