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Saket Kumar (MBA '07) grew up in India, where he attended the Marine Engineering & Research Institute in Calcutta. After graduation, he joined the merchant/commercial navy and worked as an engineering analyst with the Anglo Eastern Group from 2002 to 2005.
Kumar wanted to pursue his MBA in a location that put emphasis on diversity in the workplace-because of this, he chose to attend school in the United States. He selected SMU Cox because of the school's strong networking potential, great return on investment, small class size, and outstanding faculty.
Once enrolled at Cox, Kumar knew that he wanted to change careers paths to work in the capital market. Negotiating career changes often poses challenges for MBA students. But for Kumar, the Cox School provided a launching pad for success and a strong network that helped him find his niche in the investment banking world. He credits the Cox network with providing him the opportunity to speak with experienced leaders in the industry, and helping him change careers to investment banking.
"The Cox network provides students a diverse network where we can learn the practical aspects of the corporate world," he said. "When combined with a world-class academic environment, we leave with an excellent tool kit."
In addition, the Cox School places strong emphasis on providing real-world experience for its students, and for Kumar, that experience proved very beneficial.
"The case studies in my classes at Cox helped me apply the concepts in real situations, giving me the practical exposure that helped me in my interviews," he said. "I had a great experience with my mentor through the Associate Board executive mentoring program, and I received a great deal of exposure to the corporate world through the networking events organized through student clubs, mock interview sessions, and recruiting events."
During his time at Cox, Kumar took advantage of internship opportunities and considers his first summer internship a big break. He worked as an intern with an investment management firm in Dallas, where he had the opportunity to interact with top-notch colleagues and managers. This helped him develop relations with experienced people in the investment industry, further substantiating his network in the space.
Thanks to his internships, networking opportunities, and advice from his executive mentor, Kumar feels well prepared for the next stage in his life. After earning his MBA from Cox this May, he began working as an associate with Bear Stearns' investment banking division in New York.
Kumar provides proof that anyone can change careers if they set their mind to it. He advises other students in his shoes to work outside the comfort zone to achieve their goals. And most importantly, network.
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