DPB Student Spotlight: MS in Management and Systems’ Mehar Gudh

Mehar Gudh, who is earning an MS in Management and Systems degree from the NYU SPS Division of Programs in Business, has had the unique experience of studying and living on three continents. Originally from India, she started her academic journey by pursuing an undergraduate degree in business administration from ESSEC Business School, with her study divided between the school’s campuses in Singapore and France as well as an exchange semester at the University of Warwick, UK. Besides the multifaceted education she gained while studying core business disciplines in cross-cultural contexts, she worked in marketing at tech startups. These experiences enabled her to gain a real-world perspective of the industry and honed her professional skillsets. At NYU SPS, she is vice president of the Management & Systems Student Association (MSSA) and served as a marketing analyst intern at AIG during the summer.

Tell me about your passions and interests.
I firmly believe that exploring the world, immersing oneself in different cultures, and learning from diverse mindsets are the most significant factors that shape one’s personality, thoughts, and perspective. I have had the good fortune to travel to 20 countries so far and I hope to continue to learn experientially by discovering all the beauty the world has to offer. I am also highly invested in mindfulness and partake in activities for the betterment of my mental health and inner peace.

Why did you choose to come to NYU SPS?
About a decade ago, I visited New York City while on a school excursion and, like any other teenage girl, I absolutely fell in love with the city. Coming from a small town and seeing all these women with purpose marching towards their ambitions was inspiring. I promised myself that one day I would be back here to chase my dreams. NYU SPS, with its innovative courses, world-renowned faculty, and immersive learning environment, seemed like the perfect place for me to start. In addition, the School’s strategic location and large network presented career opportunities and professional development.

Why did you choose the MS in Management and Systems?
Even though my last degree equipped me for managerial roles, my prior work experiences made me aware of a learning gap in my technical know-how of current information technologies. Consequently, the MS in Management and Systems at NYU SPS was a perfect fit. The curriculum allows me to blend my managerial abilities with comprehensive knowledge of key technologies and systems areas. Currently, I am in my last year of the program pursuing a concentration in database technologies.

How have you found the academic experience thus far?
My learning at SPS has exceeded the confines of a classroom. I have immersed myself in a variety of enriching experiences, including numerous activities organized by our diverse student body. I have been associated with the student association from the beginning, transitioning from social media chair to GSC representative to vice president of MSSA. I’ve also had the opportunity to network and interact across the SPS family, including with the dean of the program and with NYU SPS Dean Angie Kamath.

Any favorite professors or classes and why?
Although I have enjoyed all my classes, the current course I am taking, “Database Technologies for Web Applications,” has been the most challenging and valuable experience. Professor David Prager has gone above and beyond to ensure that we are able to grasp all the tricky concepts and understand the nitty-gritty of coding.

What are your plans for the future?
I will join AIG as an analyst in their accident and health insurance department in New York City next summer. I had the privilege to pursue a 10-week internship with the company this past June, and was beyond ecstatic when I received a full-time return offer. I plan on getting an in-depth knowledge of the workings of the insurance industry, applying the technical skillsets I acquired through my degree to my job, and gaining transferable skillsets that will accelerate my professional journey.