When Kunal decided to take the leap into an MBA, it was not just about earning another credential. It was about transformation. With years of operational and leadership experience under his belt, he realised that while he could manage projects efficiently, he wanted a deeper understanding of how businesses truly work.
“I knew I was capable of managing operations effectively, but I lacked the broader financial and strategic frameworks to evaluate trade-offs and long-term implications,” Kunal shared. “That gap made me realise an MBA was the right step.”
After weighing his options, even considering a PhD or a second master’s degree, Kunal chose the SMU MBA for its case-based learning, leadership development, and strong regional networks in Asia.
Building Business Acumen and Confidence
At the start of his MBA journey, Kunal set out to broaden his cross-functional business knowledge, sharpen his leadership and analytical thinking, and gain practical exposure through hands-on learning.
The SMU MBA’s emphasis on real-world case discussions and group projects quickly became the perfect training ground.
“I truly enjoy the case discussions and being a team player for group projects,” he reflected. “They push me to analyse problems from multiple perspectives and make sound decisions under uncertainty.”
He also credits the Postgraduate Professional Development courses for helping him refine his leadership style, especially in people management and active listening. “It taught me to be patient, to really listen and understand intentions before acting.”
A Turning Point: The Carbon Capture Project
One project in particular stands out for Kunal - a pricing strategy project for a carbon capture start-up.
As an independent consultant assisting the CEO, he led the financial modelling workstream, integrating finance, operations, and marketing while navigating global tax frameworks.
“It reinforced the importance of cross-disciplinary thinking and structured problem-solving,” he explained. “I now approach new challenges by first building alignment on the problem definition before diving into solutions.”
Despite uncertainties, including whether the investor would follow through, Kunal learned to stay calm, patient, and focused. “That experience shaped how I handle ambiguity and risk today.”
Learning Through Diversity
One of the most unexpected takeaways from Kunal’s MBA journey has been learning from his peers.
“Diversity of experience is a powerful teacher,” he said. “My classmates from industries like tech, healthcare, and finance constantly challenge my assumptions and broaden my way of thinking.”
He recalls a healthcare professional who reframed a strategy case using patient-centric thinking, an insight that transformed his understanding of customer-centricity.
Kunal also admires the resilience and creativity of entrepreneurial peers, noting how they “never give up, always find a solution.”
“Each collaboration created positive moments,” he reflected. “We learned from each other, helped one another, and those memories will stay with me long after graduation.”
From Task-Oriented to Transformational
The MBA has changed how Kunal approaches leadership, both at work and in life.
“Before the MBA, I leaned towards a task-focused approach. Now, I am more adaptive and flexible, balancing results with empathy and creating space for diverse voices in decision-making.”
He is already applying what he has learned, using strategic alignment, data-driven decision-making, and cross-functional collaboration in his daily work and as he plans new business ideas.
“The programme has given me the tools and confidence to navigate complexity and lead more effectively.”
A Moment of Reflection and Gratitude
One of the most touching experiences for Kunal came during an Organisational Behaviour and Human Resources elective, where classmates shared feedback through a Reflected Best Self exercise.
The comments he received deeply moved him:
“You rally everyone together.”
“You openly share your knowledge and resources.”
“You embody respect and lead by example.”
Another classmate’s reflection captured Kunal’s leadership in action, both in and beyond the classroom:
“From our very first group project, you took the initiative to align everyone and set clear milestones that kept us on track. During the Marketing Management Koufu project, your strength in data collection and analysis helped the team overcome challenges and deliver meaningful insights. You were always calm, respectful, and motivating, even when timelines were tight.
What inspired me most was how you handled personal setbacks with resilience and purpose. Instead of dwelling on challenges, you stayed proactive, finding ways to contribute and grow. Your positivity and consistency truly set an example for all of us.”
These words, coupled with his peers’ recognition of his resilience during professional challenges, affirmed his impact not just as a professional, but as a person. “That feedback reminded me that leadership is about consistency, empathy, and optimism.” Kunal said.
Looking Ahead and Words of Advice
For anyone considering an MBA but hesitant to take the leap, Kunal’s message is clear:
“It is more than a degree, it is a transformation. You gain knowledge, networks, and perspectives that will stay with you long after graduation. If you want to grow as a leader and thinker, it is worth the leap.”
He adds that beyond the frameworks and finance models, what truly stays are the friendships and shared journeys - the moments of teamwork, discovery, and mutual respect that shape who you become. “I truly cherish the bonds built with peers from completely different industries. The support system we have created is something I will always carry with me.
Education is a life-long journey. Embrace and appreciate every moment of your journey. I am immensely thankful to all professors, teaching assistants, classmates, peers, and the staff of SMU for making my journey a memorable experience.”
Read more about Kunal’s impact shaping young lives through sports coaching here or connect with him on LinkedIn.
