Backpacking the World of Business: Reflections from My MBA Journey
Quitting my job while waiting for my U.S. visa felt like one of the riskiest decisions of my life. But looking back, it was the best one. I took a leap of faith, hoping to grow both personally and professionally, and that leap led me to the Ross School of Business.
This journey has pushed me beyond my comfort zone in ways I never imagined — through hands-on projects, global experiences, and new perspectives that have changed the way I see the world.
From Code to Strategy: Navigating New Frontiers with MAP
When I started my Multidisciplinary Action Project with Enact in California, I had no idea what to expect. Our task was to develop a go-to-market strategy for residential solar — an industry I knew nothing about. Coming from a tech background, I was used to thinking in terms of code and systems, but this project forced me to think strategically and creatively about an unfamiliar space.
From day one, I was learning on the go. My team brought together diverse perspectives, and we leaned on each other to tackle the challenge. We conducted market research, interviewed industry experts, and worked closely with Enact’s leadership to understand the competitive landscape. Outside of work, we made the most of our time in California, exploring Lake Tahoe’s peaceful beauty and experiencing the energy of San Francisco.
By the time we presented our final strategy, I felt a deep sense of accomplishment. The project wasn’t just about building a business strategy — it was about learning to adapt, collaborate, and push through uncertainty.
A Dream Realized: Silicon Valley’s Lessons in Innovation
Visiting Silicon Valley was a long-time dream come true. As someone who has always been fascinated by technology, stepping into the offices of OpenAI, Google, and LinkedIn felt surreal. These companies are shaping the future, and being there gave me a glimpse into how they operate at the highest level.
One of the biggest lessons I took away was the importance of agility. Even the most established companies stay ahead by constantly evolving. I also saw how they balance innovation with responsibility—especially in AI, where ethical leadership is just as important as technical breakthroughs. Beyond the technology, what stood out to me was how they leverage networks to create value, reinforcing the power of building strong, engaged communities.
Exploring New Horizons: Eastern Europe’s Intersection of Culture and Commerce
One of the most unique aspects of the MBA Program is the chance to experience business in different parts of the world. During fall break, I traveled to Eastern Europe for the first time—a region I had always wanted to explore.
Budapest and Prague, with their mix of history and modernity, offered incredible insights into how business and culture intersect. Walking through grand castles and historic squares, I was reminded of the deep-rooted traditions that still influence commerce today. At the same time, I saw a new generation of entrepreneurs and businesses emerging, blending global ambition with local identity.
This was my first time in Europe, and seeing these cities in person — after years of dreaming about them — felt incredibly special. From exploring ruin bars in Budapest to watching the sunset over the Vltava River in Prague, I soaked in every moment. More than anything, this experience reminded me why I took this leap in the first place—to expand my world, both professionally and personally.
Looking Back, Moving Forward
This past year has been a whirlwind of learning, growth, and discovery. Every experience — from MAP to Silicon Valley to Eastern Europe — has shaped me in ways I couldn’t have predicted. I’ve learned that stepping into the unknown isn’t just about taking risks; it’s about opening yourself up to new perspectives, new challenges, and new opportunities.
As I look ahead, I carry these lessons with me. No matter where my career takes me next, I know I’ll continue to embrace the unknown — because that’s where the real growth happens.
