Ameesha Munjal, Vanderbilt Owen MBA Class of 2027
Age: 25
Hometown: Delhi, India
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Symbiosis Centre for Management Studies, Pune and Business Administration majoring in Accounting and Finance
Pre-MBA Work Experience: I worked in finance for almost four years before business school. I started at TresVista, a global investment services firm, where I was fast-tracked from Analyst to Associate. I led high-complexity fund strategy and valuation projects, working directly with senior clients, including a MENA-based sovereign wealth fund. After that, I joined Invisible AI, a Silicon Valley startup, as a Financial Strategist, where I focused on pricing strategy and go-to-market planning.
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I’ve always known I wanted to be on the frontlines of high-stakes financial decision-making, and business school felt like the right next step. After years of supporting fund strategy behind the scenes, I wanted to pivot into a front-facing, deal-driven role like investment banking. I also saw this as an opportunity to expand my global network, grow as a leader, and gain structured exposure to the U.S. finance landscape.
Why did you choose Vanderbilt Owen? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Three things stood out to me:
- Tight-knit community and small cohort size – I thrive in environments where people know each other by name, and where professors are personally invested in your success. Owen truly delivers on that.
- Career support – From personalized guidance by the Career Management Centre to the support of second years and alumni, the ecosystem at Vanderbilt is structured and incredibly hands-on.
- City and lifestyle fit – As an international student, I wanted to be in an affordable and welcoming city where I could both focus and enjoy my MBA life. Nashville is vibrant, warm, and strikes the perfect balance.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
I bring a blend of structured finance experience and creative problem-solving. I love simplifying complex ideas, building from scratch, and uplifting others around me, whether it’s brainstorming with peers or supporting someone’s prep. I also bring a global lens to discussions, having worked with diverse teams and international clients early in my career.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I have a slightly obsessive habit of organizing my iPhone photos and videos into “emotional archives” by year, vibe, and memory. Capturing everyday moments is my way of storytelling, and I dream of building something that helps families preserve memories and voices across generations.
Post-MBA career interests:
Strategic finance and investment banking in the short term. Long-term, I’m passionate about sustainable infrastructure and hope to eventually pivot toward climate-focused investing or impact finance.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Talk to current students, but start earlier. Every conversation gave me clarity on cultural fit, academic offerings, and what would help me grow the most. I’d also recommend deeply researching programs, courses, and experiential learning opportunities. Knowing what resonated with me helped me write more authentic applications.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
Start earlier. The process is mentally, emotionally, and logistically draining, especially while working full-time. Giving yourself more time helps avoid burnout and second-guessing.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Waiting on decisions and being waitlisted! It’s hard to stay motivated in that limbo. What helped me was staying in motion, refining my story, connecting with schools, and remembering that one “yes” can change everything.
What is your initial impression of the Vanderbilt Owen students/culture/community?
Supportive, driven, and refreshingly down-to-earth. Everyone here is ambitious, but it’s not a cutthroat environment; we lift each other up. I was especially impressed by how invested the second years are in helping us succeed. The Career Management Centre, Leadership Development Program, and even faculty feel like your personal cheer squad. It is the kind of place where you feel seen, even in a sea of talent.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
I have joined the Owen Finance Club and Strategy Club to build the technical and strategic thinking skills I’ll need to pivot into a front-facing financial role. Both clubs offer invaluable recruiting prep, industry insights, and access to alumni and firm events that help bridge the classroom with real-world applications.
I’m part of the Owen Women’s Business Association and Owen Out & Allied because representation and support matter. I want to surround myself with empowering communities where people bring their full selves to every room and where we lift as we climb.
I joined Net Impact and the Turner Family Centre for Social Ventures to explore the intersection of business and social good, an area I’m deeply passionate about.
And finally, 100% Owen was a no-brainer. I believe the best MBA experience is one where you show up, give back, and get involved.
What is one thing you have learned about Vanderbilt Owen that has surprised you?
How invested people are in each other’s success and how real that culture is. I’d heard the word “collaborative” used in every information session, but being on campus and seeing it in action, from second-year students reaching out proactively to faculty members remembering your name, which surprised me in the best way.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m most excited about the plethora of opportunities to contribute, to connect, and to grow. Whether it’s working alongside second years, learning from industry leaders, or simply collaborating with classmates from incredibly diverse backgrounds, I’m excited to be in a space where ambition meets community. Every day feels like a chance to challenge myself and absorb the wisdom and experience of the people around me.
