Mohit Venkatesh, Michigan Ross MBA Class of 2028
Age: 26
Hometown: Bangalore, India
Undergraduate Institution and Major: RV College of Engineering, Electrical and Electronics Engineering
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Flight Simulation Technology Engineer, Aerospace Industry, Airbus, 4 years
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
Engineering gave me the opportunity to work on complex aircraft systems and solve challenging technical problems, which I genuinely enjoyed. Over time, I found myself becoming just as interested in the bigger picture of how product decisions are made, how cross-functional teams come together, and how engineering organizations turn ideas into products that create value. I realized I wanted to play a larger role in those decisions, and an MBA was the natural next step to build the business and leadership skills needed to get there. This was also the right time personally and professionally as I have enough real-world context to fully appreciate what I will learn in the classroom while still having the flexibility to reshape my career.
Why did you choose Michigan Ross? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Michigan Ross stood out because of its action-based learning philosophy and collaborative culture. Throughout the application process, every interaction with students and alumni reinforced the idea that Ross is a place where classmates genuinely invest in one another’s success. I also wanted a program where I could build on my engineering background while developing strong business skills through hands-on experiences in operations, manufacturing, and product development by working on real business challenges alongside industry partners.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
I hope to bring a perspective that combines analytical thinking with a genuine interest in people. My engineering experience taught me how to break down complex problems, think systematically, and collaborate effectively across teams. At the same time, I enjoy building relationships, sharing ideas, encouraging others, and being someone people feel comfortable approaching. If my classmates see me as someone who contributes thoughtfully, is dependable, and is always willing to help, I would consider that a meaningful contribution to the Ross community.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I grew up playing and following European football (soccer), and it’s still one of my favorite ways to unwind. Since I will be spending the next two years in Ann Arbor, I am excited to immerse myself in American football as well. Hopefully, by the end of my MBA, I will be able to debate both the Premier League and the NFL with equal enthusiasm!
Post-MBA career interests:
Operations and Supply Chain
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Spend time speaking with current students and alumni. Those conversations taught me far more about each program’s culture than rankings or brochures ever could, and they played a big role in my decision to choose Ross. They also helped me narrow down the career paths I wanted to explore after my MBA and understand how the program could support those goals.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would probably start my applications a little earlier and spend more time reflecting on why each school was the right fit for me. That would have given me more opportunities to connect with the admissions team, have meaningful conversations with students and alumni, and ultimately write more authentic essays instead of balancing everything alongside a full-time job.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
If I could skip one part of the process, it would be the temptation to over-edit every essay. After a certain point, each additional round of revisions added very little value and sometimes made my writing sound less like me. What helped was knowing when to stop refining and trusting that it reflects your authentic self.
What is your initial impression of the Michigan Ross students/culture/community?
My first impression has been how approachable everyone is. Whether I was speaking with students, alumni, or future classmates, people were generous with their time and genuinely wanted to help. That collaborative spirit was one of the reasons I chose Ross, and it’s been encouraging to see it reflected in my early interactions with the community.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
I am looking forward to getting involved with the Aerospace Club, General Management Club, Tech Club, and Soccer Club. Together, they reflect both my professional interests and personal passions, and I am excited to learn from my peers, connect with industry professionals, and build friendships beyond the classroom.
What is one thing you have learned about Michigan Ross that has surprised you?
I had heard a lot about Ross’s collaborative culture during the admissions process, but I was still pleasantly surprised by how genuine it felt. Even before classes have started, every student and alumnus I have spoken to has been incredibly generous with their time, answering questions, making introductions, and going out of their way to help. It has made me even more excited about joining the Ross community.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am especially excited about MAP (Multidisciplinary Action Projects) because it gives us the chance to work on real business challenges with a company. I am looking forward to collaborating with my teammates and seeing how we approach problems outside the classroom.
