Shruti Smita's MBA Journey: Transforming Perspectives

By Shruti Smita, Full-time MBA alumna, class of 2022-2023

Before I came to Vlerick, I was never much of a risk-taker. I always preferred comfort and stability over flexibility.

But in the two months that I’ve been studying for my Full-time MBA, my mindset has completely shifted. In fact, I haven’t stopped surprising myself.

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This doesn’t mean there haven’t been moments of self-doubt – or when I’ve questioned my abilities. This is, after all, the first time I’ve been back in school after eight and a half years in the workplace. 

But Vlerick has made my transition smooth, fun and engaging. And it has taught me that life isn’t about grades. Instead, it’s about evolving your business and leadership abilities so that you can thrive in a world of constant change.

You can make this shift because Vlerick creates an environment where your thinking is challenged – and you push yourself beyond what you already know. Now, instead of thinking, “Am I smart enough?” I ask myself, “What’s the worst that can happen?”

What particularly interests me about our curriculum is the fact that we do not study books. We look at real-world problems and brainstorm them together by applying core concepts. We’re capitalising on the collective intellect and diverse insights of our class.

While I’m talking about diversity – here’s another great bonus. My class is made up of 16 nationalities – and it’s full of brilliant minds who bring diverse perspectives and add their own flavour to our learning. It’s as unique as it sounds.

In the past two months, we’ve completed our financial modules (The Big Three, as I like to call them – pun intended). We also had the October Career Fair, various networking events with alumni – and visits to companies including ASML, OFI, Brussels Airlines and SAP. For an international student like me, this has meant a lot of valuable networking opportunities – and an opportunity to get a foot in the European job market.

Oh, and I almost forgot to tell you about the fun side. While Vlerick likes to keep us grounded with our never-ending assignments, modules, and infinite group work, it also makes sure we have loads of fun. We recently enjoyed an International Festival where all Masters and Full-time MBA students celebrated their cultural diversity through food and fun.

I’ve been working hard and playing harder, and I can’t wait to see what’s next in store in the next eight months!

Written by Shruti Smita. She graduated in 2023.

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Aurelie Van de Meulebroucke

Aurelie Van de Meulebroucke

Customer Relationship Manager – Full-Time, European, Executive and Online MBA