Meghana Patel, UNC Kenan-Flagler’s MBA Class of 2027
Age: 25
Hometown: Roxboro, North Carolina
Undergraduate Institution and Major: UNC-Chapel Hill. Public Health – Nutrition
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Three years of medical school training at UNC School of Medicine; currently pursuing a dual MD/MBA.
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I’m pursuing an MD-MBA because I want to bring a business mindset to clinical practice and help improve how care is delivered for both patients and providers. The business side of healthcare is increasingly complex, and clinicians are left dealing with the consequences of decisions that often do not make sense from their perspective. I want a seat at the table where those decisions are made. An MBA will give me the tools, skills, and language to engage with the nonclinical leaders who shape health systems and to connect their choices to real outcomes in the hospital and clinic. A foundation in finance, market dynamics, and healthcare regulation will help me identify bottlenecks, manage patient flow, and use resources more effectively. These improvements drive efficiency and revenue while also enhancing patient care and satisfaction.
Why did you choose UNC Kenan-Flagler? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose UNC Kenan-Flagler for its MD/MBA dual-degree, strong healthcare concentration and its Center for the Business of Health, as well as its connection to UNC Health Systems and the Research Triangle. I was drawn to the collaborative culture and access to faculty who are invested in student success. Conversations with MD/MBA students also emphasized the quality of the classes, the supportive community and the abundance of opportunities.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
As one of the few medical students pursuing an MBA, I think I bring a unique perspective to healthcare challenges. During my clinical rotations, I witnessed how decisions in operations, finance and policy significantly impact patient care and team dynamics. This experience has given me a deeper understanding of how system-level decisions shape outcomes, and I’m excited to contribute this perspective to bridge the gap between clinical knowledge and management in healthcare.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I love dancing! I competed on a Bollywood-fusion team that blends hip-hop, bhangra, contemporary and classical styles and we won second place in nationals against more than 150 teams.
Post-MBA career interests:
Short term I will pursue residency in interventional radiology and deepen my clinical and procedural expertise. Long term I plan to pair patient care with leadership in hospital administration or private practice management.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
One thing I would do again is talk to students and alumni. Those conversations confirmed that UNC was the right fit for me and gave me the clearest picture of day-to-day life, expectations, and the culture.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would have spoken to even more students from different backgrounds. I think everyone has a valuable perspective that you can learn from and forming connections early will help foster genuine relationships that you may benefit from down the line.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I’d skip the stress. Being authentic and having candid conversations with students who shared my background helped me get through the process.
What is your initial impression of the Kenan-Flagler students/culture/community?
My initial impression of the UNC Kenan-Flagler community has been incredibly positive. The culture here is one of collaboration, inclusivity and high energy. It feels like a place where everyone is genuinely invested in each other’s success, both academically and personally. From the very first interactions, I noticed how open and approachable everyone is. There’s a strong emphasis on teamwork and supporting one another. The community fosters an environment where students feel comfortable sharing ideas and pushing each other to be their best while still having fun and enjoying the process.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
I’m excited to be involved in a few student organizations that align with my interests and future goals. I’ve joined the Healthcare Club and the Center for the Business of Health as I’m passionate about the intersection of business and healthcare, and I’m eager to learn more about the challenges and opportunities in this space. Additionally, I’m looking forward to participating in the Carolina Women in Business club. This group not only empowers women but also creates a network of strong, ambitious individuals who are shaping the future of business.
What is one thing you have learned about Kenan-Flagler that has surprised you?
One thing that really surprised me about UNC Kenan-Flagler is how deeply engaged and invested the faculty are in students’ success. From the start, it’s clear that they not only genuinely care about our learning and career development, but they also make an effort to build lasting relationships that extend beyond the classroom.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
One of the things I’m most excited about in my first year at UNC Kenan-Flagler is the annual Blue Cup against Duke. The rivalry between UNC and Duke is legendary, and I’ve heard the energy around the competition is unmatched. It seems like a perfect mix of school spirit, fun, and friendly rivalry that unites the entire community.
