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Ike Anand (MBA '03) was an entrepreneur in India, starting and running Heritage Paper, a company specializing in decorative recycled paper. He had graduated with honors from SriRam College of Commerce, Delhi University, with a bachelor's degree in economics, but he knew he wanted an MBA to help fulfill his long term career goals.
Anand chose SMU Cox because of its location in Dallas, the small class size and the friendly and engaged alumni. He also received a sizeable merit scholarship. He decided to pursue a full time MBA with a concentration in strategy and entrepreneurship.
While at Cox, Anand took advantage of the tremendous network, including the Associate Board Executive Mentor Program. His mentor exposed him to the culture and business environment of the U.S. Anand also found the alumni supportive as they provided guidance on interview skills and professional ethics. In fact, he says, it was thanks to a Cox alumnus that he landed his first internship with Sabre Inc. which converted to a full-time job offer.
"The Cox network provides a vast resource for the students to build a strong business circle. From basic friendship to valuable support and guidance, the Cox network is a true asset," said Anand. "At Cox, we all go through so much of the same experience that we become friends for life."
Anand also enjoyed the Cox School's diverse international student body. "We come from all parts of the world, practice different cultures and speak different languages, yet we learn to appreciate each other and build on our unique experiences to the advantage of everyone," he said.
Currently, Anand is employed as the Director of Airline Strategy and Analysis with Expedia Inc. He is responsible for defining and supporting Expedia's strategy for the airline distribution business. Long term, he plans on starting his own business as a consultant.
"Vast opportunities exist in my chosen field of activity - intelligently matching travel supply and demand to produce incremental revenue for suppliers and unforgettable experiences for travelers," said Anand. "I see myself based in Asia within a few years, growing in my chosen field."
Anand believes life experiences help develop goals and ambitions, and that taking advantage of all opportunities provides varied experiences that can help shape a successful career.
"The Cox MBA program not only provides theoretical and practical learnings, it also opens up doors to gaining once-in-a-lifetime experiences. However, it is the students, with their efforts and determination, who make the Cox MBA the launch-pad of their future," he said.
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