Raazgi Haidri, Rochester Simon MBA Class of 2020
Age: 27 years
Hometown: Mumbai, India
Undergraduate Institution and Major: SIES College (Mumbai University); Advertising
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): Before business school, I spent six years in the radio and broadcast industry in India, producing primetime radio shows that were heard across the city of Mumbai.
Why business school? Why now?
As a Senior Producer at India’s largest radio network, I was able to ace content creation and content marketing via radio and digital media platforms. I have won national-level awards for my campaigns and was a known voice on the radio. I enrolled in business school because I really believed that with an MBA, I would be able to build on my pre-existing skills and broaden my professional horizon.
My work experience had helped me learn the art of business. At Simon, I am learning the science of Business. I am taking courses like Data Analytics, New Product Strategy, Finance, and Business Modelling to prepare me for leadership roles at global companies.
The timing for business school felt right because I have both, the experience to be able to contribute to an MBA class and the drive to learn new skills.
Why Simon? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Simon felt like the right business school for me because of its quantitative focus. We follow a very analytical curriculum and are now the first STEM Designated MBA program in the world. The courses here promised to give me the skills I was looking for.
I was also impressed by the diversity of the MBA program. We have a very large international-student body-18 countries represented in the MBA 2020 class alone. As someone who is culturally curious and enjoys interacting with people, Simon was a great fit for me.
A major factor that figured prominently in my decision was also the connection I felt with the staff and students. I interacted with school representatives and current students when they visited Mumbai and later through video conferences. Through those interactions, I was able to see myself as part of the close-knit and uplifting ecosystem that Simon provides to its students.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2020?
During the course of my undergraduate degree, I took courses in Advertising Design, Cinema, Television, and Radio, apart from the traditional Marketing and Finance courses. My education and my experience in the media industry, help me bring a unique perspective to my class and case discussions.
Also, I am an enthusiastic person by design and I enjoy taking on new initiatives. With the numerous club opportunities open to first-year candidates this fall, I look forward to taking on new responsibilities and immersing myself further in the business school experience.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I started my career by announcing cricket score updates on the radio at the age of 18.
Post-MBA career interests?
Product Management, Marketing Strategy
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
During my application process, I made meaningful connections with alumni and students. If I had to apply now, I would absolutely do it again. I learned so much about the school culture in my interactions with them. Their experiences helped me gain insight into how my time in the program would be and made for interesting conversations during my business school interview.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
I wouldn’t worry as much as I did. I have come to learn that business school applications are a very smooth process if you have a compelling story, make an effort to learn about the school, and believe that you are a good fit.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I would skip the late nights I spent writing essays after work if I could. The application process can be taxing but pays off if you see it through to the end. The constant encouragement from my mentors, family, and colleagues kept me going.
What is your initial impression of Simon’s students/culture/community?
Simon students are a very ambitious yet inclusive and supportive community. Our alumni network regularly supports current students and engages with us at various events like career guidance sessions and workshops.
One thing you have learned about Simon that has surprised you?
The diversity of experiences MBA candidates bring with them at Simon, has pleasantly surprised me. I enjoy learning in a class that apart from traditional industries, represents backgrounds like the Peace Corps, Hospitality, Education, Law, Nonprofit, and more.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I feel anxious about missing great club events! I enjoy participating in activities and events on the MBA calendar but an MBA is an intense program and it is important to prioritize and find a balance between career preparation, academics, and extra-curricular activities.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am excited about working as an MBA Consultant on a Market Sizing project for a real company through the school’s Simon Vision Consulting Club, this year. I am also looking forward to visiting technology companies during the career trek to the West Coast in December.
Clear Admit Resources
As you work on your Simon MBA essays and application, we encourage you to consider all of Clear Admit’s Simon offerings:
- Rochester / Simon Profile on the Clear Admit website: up-to-date advice and admissions information
- Clear Admit Rochester / Simon School Snapshot: overview of key curricular details and application information
- Clear Admit LiveWire: admissions updates submitted in real time by applicants to Rochester / Simon
- Clear Admit DecisionWire: school selections in real-time by admits to Rochester / Simon
