Shailee Shelke, ASU Carey MBA Class of 2027
Age: 36 years
Hometown: Vashi, India
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Maharashtra University of Health Sciences, Dentistry
Pre-MBA Work Experience (role, industry, company, years): Pediatric Dentist & Clinical Operations Manager: Healthcare Providers: 4 years; Assistant Professor & Technical Coordinator: Healthcare Academics: 3 years; Co-founder of BuddyDental: Healthcare EdTech: 1 year
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I built my career as a dentist, operations leader, and healthcare entrepreneur, but realized I wanted to expand my impact beyond those realms. Business school felt like the right way to strengthen my financial and strategic toolkit so I can lead organizations at scale. After leading projects in healthcare and academia, it felt like the perfect time to pivot towards general management and finance while still bringing fresh industry experience to the classroom.
Why did you choose ASU Carey? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
ASU W.P. Carey stood out for its strong emphasis on fostering a close-knit and collaborative community, and an incredible presence in the Innovation, AI, and Operations space. I had visited the ASU campus before making my decision and truly enjoyed Tempe’s college town vibe. Additionally, the Executive Connections program offered the opportunity to be paired with a senior executive making W.P Carey an easy choice.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
I bring healthcare expertise, entrepreneurial grit, and academic leadership. As a Motorola Scholar and Forté Fellow, I’m grateful to be recognized for my impact and inclusivity. These are qualities I try to put into practice every day, and I genuinely enjoy spotting potential in others and helping them grow. I hope to contribute to W.P. Carey’s collaborative culture in the same spirit.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I am that friend who always has snacks and candy in her backpack. Sit next to me in class and you’ll never go hungry.
Post-MBA career interests:
General management, finance, or operations roles within healthcare/life sciences or sustainability-driven industries.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Talk to as many current students and alumni as possible. Their stories gave me clarity and confidence in my decision.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would have started GRE prep earlier, instead of cramming it into a busy work schedule.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Essay rewrites!
Feedback from trusted friends and mentors gave me the motivation and insight to keep going and consistently improving my drafts.
What is your initial impression of the ASU Carey students/culture/community?
Warm, collaborative, and unpretentious. Everyone wants to see each other succeed, and the support network forms quickly.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
I’ve joined the Healthcare Club, Women in Business, and Net Impact because they align with my career goals and values. I’m also excited about the Consulting Club for sharpening problem-solving skills.
What is one thing you have learned about ASU Carey that has surprised you?
How genuinely accessible the faculty and staff are. They make time for students in a way that feels rare at a large university.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Diving into group and applied projects with real companies and testing my new skills while making a tangible impact.
