Abhiram discusses the strong community he built as a student in the MEM program

What made you choose Cornell for the Engineering Management program?

I chose Cornell because it's an Ivy League institution with top-notch faculty and a strong student community. It's status as one of the oldest programs and the flexibility to take courses from various schools, such as engineering, business, law, economics, and more, aligned with my academic and career goals perfectly.

What do you think is the most valuable lesson you are learning or have learned while pursuing this degree? 

The importance of working outside my comfort zone; this experience has pushed me to develop new skills, adapt to diverse situations, and grow both personally and professionally.

What advice do you have for prospective students who are considering the Engineering Management program at Cornell?

Embrace interdisciplinary learning, network actively, step out of your comfort zone, manage your time effectively, seek mentorship, leverage resources, and stay curious. These principles will assist you in excelling in this program and getting the most out of your experience.

What do you enjoy most about the structure of the courses you are taking? 

The program’s two semester format challenged me. Simulating the pace of the professional world, this structure helped to build confidence in my abilities to time and project manage. I enjoyed working with my cohort, we forged a sense of community while sharing in this overall learning experience together.

What surprised you about the program?

I was pleasantly surprised by the level of collaboration and cross-disciplinary interaction within the program. The emphasis on teamwork has enriched my educational experience and ultimately allowed me to grow my network of peers with a wide range of expertise.

What is something you are learning about yourself while earning this degree?

I am learning that I am more adaptable and resilient than I thought. The program's rigorous demands have pushed me to develop effective time management, problem-solving skills, and the ability to thrive in high-pressure situations. This self-discovery is not only benefitting my academic journey but also preparing me for a successful career.