Ishan Gulati enjoyed his work as a project manager in New York, overseeing multinational teams handling technology-related assignments for large companies. “I liked the fact that I was able to interact with a range of clients and industries,” he says. “But I wanted to transition into more of a strategic role”—specifically, as a consultant.

As he considered MBA programs, Vanderbilt emerged as a possibility; from colleagues who had obtained their undergraduate degrees there, he had heard about “the beautiful campus and amazing atmosphere that,” he says, “piqued my interest.”

After conducting further research, Ishan says, “I saw that Owen had great connections to consultancies and had many alumni at my target firms.” The location, too, played a part in his decision. “I had spent the last 10 years in the Northeast,” he says. “I was looking for a new experience.”

As it turned out, the composition of Ishan’s class turned out to be as much of a shaping influence as the change in scenery from New York to Nashville. “With such a diverse class,” he says, “I was able to get a new perspective on the material and how individuals approach complex issues. It is setting me up for success as a budding global business leader.” Ishan already has emerged as a leader within the Owen community: his fellow students elected him class president.

In his free time, Ishan enjoys exploring the diverse ethnic restaurants along Nashville’s Nolensville Pike. In some ways, it’s an apt metaphor for what he has enjoyed at Vanderbilt. “The Owen experience,” he says, “has given me many opportunities to explore different avenues and network with high-impact individuals that I would not have had if I had not come here. I am getting a great education through great resources, world-class faculty, and amazing peers that are helping me de-mystify a path for my future.”

Fun Fact: A big hip-hop fan, Ishan has worked as a DJ. He also loves playing basketball and soccer.

I am getting a great education…that is helping me de-mystify a path for my future.