Diversity And Calibre Of UNBSJ MBA Program Appeals To Students Like Neeraja Kandikuppa
Whether looking for the newest show to watch on Netflix or investigating the best MBA program, a word-of-mouth recommendation can’t be beaten.
Neeraja Kandikuppa, an international student from India, first learned about the University of New Brunswick’s MBA program through a friend, who in turn learned about it from one of their friends.
“I’ve always heard a lot good things about the Atlantic part of Canada and it was affordable to me, especially being that it’s a one-year program,” says Neeraja, adding that most MBA programs are 18-month to two-year programs.
Applicants can also choose from six specializations (Project Management, International Business, General Management, Entrepreneurship and Technology Management, Research and Business Development and Professional Sales), whereas most MBA programs do not offer specializations.
Neeraja chose to pursue a specialization in Project Management, and friends of hers chose the Entrepreneurship specialization.
“I want to lead projects or act in a manager or test-lead role,” she said, explaining that even when one has practical knowledge and experience, theoretical implementation at a higher level is required to help projects reach their fullest potential.
“With the latest technology emerging every day, we want to provide better customer experience,” she said. “That’s when project management comes in to place – the expertise and how to migrate the projects or build new projects with the theoretical experience and practical knowledge.”
The MBA’s six-week internship helps its students by guiding them through the transition from student to being in a workplace and guides them with LinkedIn and resume workshops.
“The internship definitely helps them to understand Canadian work culture,” said Neeraja, having done her internship at the Computer Generated Solutions (CGS).
The program is also flexible and accommodating to international students amidst the Covid-19 pandemic, giving students the choice to attend online or in person.
“A couple of my friends wanted to join this year and they were able to continue studying from their home country,” she said. “They’re given the outline for modules, deadlines and evaluations and they can plan accordingly and plan to either come back [to Canada] or continue working remotely.”
Ultimately, UNB’s MBA length, flexibility and support and guidance for its students make the program stand out from other MBAs.
“Having prior work experience, being an international student and also having that internship in Canadian workplaces is definitely a right path to go build your career,” she said.
This story is sponsored by the University of New Brunswick in Saint John.