Basundhara (Basu) Parasar

Gabelli School of Business, Fordham University

“A growth-oriented leader leveraging innovation, effective communication, and empathy to drive impactful change.”

Hometown: Guwahati, Assam, India

Fun fact about yourself:  Bungee jumped from India’s highest (272 ft) bungee point.

Undergraduate School and Degree:

Undergraduate: Sikkim Manipal University (Bachelor of Technology – Electrical & Electronics Engineering)

Graduate: University of Illinois Chicago (Master of Science in Business Analytics)

Where was the last place you worked before enrolling in business school? TruStage (formerly CUNA Mutual Group), Senior Data Scientist.

Where did you intern during the summer of 2023? BlackRock, New York City

Where will you be working after graduation? BlackRock, Associate

Community Work and Leadership Roles in Business School:

Leadership Roles:

1. Co-Founder & Vice President, Gabelli School of Business Product Management Club: Recognizing the growing demand for product management expertise among MBA students, I co-founded the Gabelli School Product Management Club. Overseeing its development, I orchestrated the Club’s approval process, crafted guidelines, assembled a proficient leadership team, and facilitated member induction. I currently work on fostering relationships with industry professionals to enrich student opportunities through the Club.

2. Board Member, Fordham Real Estate Club: As a board member, I contribute to coordinating events, site visits, and real estate financial modeling sessions, collaborating with industry experts to offer valuable insights and experiences to Club members.

3. Student Representative (Career Advising) for Cohort: Advocating for my MBA cohort, I serve as a liaison between students and the Gabelli School’s administration, mainly focusing on career advising. I ensure students’ voices are heard and facilitate constructive dialogue to enhance career support services.

4. Peer Advisor to First-year MBAs: Guiding the professional development of five first-year MBA students, I provide personalized mentorship through résumé reviews, mock interviews, and ongoing career guidance sessions, nurturing their growth and confidence.

5. Peer Ambassador for the Gabelli School Responsible Business Center: Embracing the ethos of sustainability and responsible business practices, I represent the Gabelli School’s Responsible Business Center as a peer ambassador. My responsibilities include organizing the Center’s flagship conference, engaging with incoming students, and fostering connections with alumni to promote interdisciplinary involvement and ethical leadership.

6. Graduate Assistant at the Gabelli School’s Career Development Center: As a graduate assistant during my first year, I conducted comprehensive assessments of student needs through focus groups, leading to strategic enhancements in career services alignment. Additionally, I managed recruitment projects and career events in collaboration with recruiters, facilitating meaningful connections between students and potential employers.

Scholarship Awards and Honor Societies:

1. Dean’s Merit Scholarship: Awarded Dean’s Merit Scholarship of $70,000 upon acceptance to the program, recognizing my outstanding academic and leadership potential in the business school community.

2. Emily L. & Robert E. Smith Scholarship (Continuing Education): Acknowledged with the Emily L. & Robert E. Smith Scholarship, a testament to my ongoing dedication to my studies and my academic achievement, which exemplified my commitment to continuous learning and growth during my second semester.

3 Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society Membership: Inducted into Fordham University’s chapter of Phi Kappa Phi, the esteemed all-discipline honor society, in recognition of my exceptional academic achievements and contributions to the business school community.

4. Alpha Sigma Nu Honor Society Membership: Inducted into Alpha Sigma Nu, the Honor Society of Jesuit Colleges and Universities, for academic excellence and my commitment to the Jesuit principle of “Cura Personalis,” which emphasizes the holistic development of myself and others within the business school community.

Which academic or extracurricular achievement are you most proud of during business school? I take great pride in the meaningful contributions I’ve made through my internships, during which I’ve had the opportunity to successfully translate the knowledge I’ve gained at the Gabelli School into tangible, real-world applications.

MBA Summer Associate, Blackrock: During my summer internship at BlackRock on the Securities Lending team, I successfully undertook four live projects across diverse functions despite lacking prior experience in asset management or securities lending. Drawing upon my robust quantitative, communication, and stakeholder management skills and my business school education, I swiftly grasped the intricacies of the business and delivered high-quality outcomes.

As an example, I developed a comprehensive dashboard to track KPIs, enabling traders to make data-driven decisions. My collaborative approach fostered cross-functional engagement as I meticulously addressed stakeholder requirements, conducted extensive interviews, and delivered solutions seamlessly integrated into the existing ecosystem. Moreover, I prioritized networking efforts, connecting with at least three individuals outside my immediate team on a weekly basis. At the conclusion of this immersive, 10-week internship, my manager lauded my achievements and strategic acumen in fulfilling objectives.

Intern, Catholic Homes (NYC-based Affordable Housing): Currently, I am interning at Catholic Homes, helping to oversee a portfolio of 2,300 affordable homes and construction of new units for low-income families and seniors in New York City. I am excited to leverage the financial modeling skills I learned through my Real Estate Valuation and Investments class offered by the Fordham Real Estate Institute, as well as insights gleaned as a Fordham Real Estate Club board member, to help address the urgent need for affordable housing in New York City. My responsibilities encompass providing transparent insights to ensure operational efficiency across the portfolio of properties and developing financial models and funding proposals for new affordable units.

These internships exemplify my proudest moments during my time at the Gabelli School. In each instance, I was able to transform classroom theories into actionable solutions, contributing positively to corporate environments and societal welfare.

What achievement are you most proud of in your professional career? I am deeply proud of my ability to adapt to dynamic environments and to steer my career journey with steadfast determination toward personal and professional advancement. Hailing from a remote region of Assam, India, where economic opportunities were limited, my dedication to addressing critical challenges and embracing opportunities has been pivotal in realizing my career aspirations.

As a technology consultant at Capgemini in India, I spearheaded data migration projects that resonated with the financial services industry’s evolving demands. I significantly boosted operational efficiency and aligned the company’s infrastructure while guiding my clients through the transition from outdated legacy systems to cutting-edge cloud platforms.

Upon relocating to the United States to pursue higher education, my employment at TruStage (formerly CUNA Mutual Group), a leader in financial services, provided me with the opportunity to ascend to the position of senior data scientist for B2B sales. In this role, I orchestrated the implementation of sophisticated machine learning solutions, generating data-driven insights that revolutionized customer acquisition and retention strategies for millions of customers through credit unions. Leading cross-functional teams, I ensured seamless adoption of machine learning tools by understanding and addressing adoption challenges, resulting in 100% utilization of business intelligence tools.

Throughout my journey, I’ve remained committed to continuous improvement, prioritizing customer needs, and adapting to evolving market dynamics. My dedication, hands-on expertise, and networking skills – along with my continuing quest to enhance my knowledge by earning an advanced business degree – have paved the way for me to secure a coveted internship opportunity and a full-time position at BlackRock, despite challenging hiring conditions. I look forward to extending my contributions toward meeting the financial needs of a broad base of individuals and institutions
post-graduation.

Why did you choose this business school? After six years of invaluable professional experience at the dynamic intersection of finance and technology, I strategically pivoted to enhance my expertise by enrolling in the Fordham Gabelli School of Business MBA program. Central to my decision was the program’s strategic location in the business nexus of New York City, and its incomparable return on investment. The school’s compelling motto, “New York is my campus, Fordham is my school,” deeply resonated with me.

My aspiration to build a thriving career within a finance entity that embraces technological innovation led me to recognize New York City as unparalleled in its abundance of organizations aligning with my career objectives. The generous scholarship awarded by the Gabelli School strengthened my resolve, affirming the mutual commitment to my academic and professional development. Situated near the headquarters of major financial institutions, the school’s prime location near Lincoln Center in Manhattan enabled me to integrate networking coffee chats into my academic schedule seamlessly.

As an immigrant determined to forge my path to success, I am acutely aware that no other city provides the breadth of access and opportunity to glean insights from such a remarkable cohort of industry leaders. Ultimately, my decision to join the Gabelli School of Business MBA program in New York City enabled me to satisfy my goals and objectives by taking advantage of the unparalleled resources and networks available in this global epicenter of commerce and innovation.

Who was your favorite MBA professor? During my studies in the Gabelli School MBA program, I had the great fortune of learning from Professor Miguel Alzola, who was my favorite instructor. He taught the “Market, Business, and Society” course. What I appreciated about his teaching style, was that he didn’t simply tell us what was right or wrong in a business scenario. Instead, he provided us with the tools to objectively assess situations and make challenging yet educated decisions without being influenced by personal biases.

Under his guidance, my classmates and I could respectfully express our viewpoints on pressing global issues, engaging in rigorous debates, which were not merely based on rhetoric or popular sentiments. Professor Alzola orchestrated these discussions with finesse, often leading me to empathize with opposing perspectives through attentive analysis and critical evaluation.

He emphasized the cultivation of future leaders who are aware of the complexities of long-term career trajectories. By delving into real-world case studies spanning ethical dilemmas in contemporary business landscapes—from whistleblowing to diversity initiatives to businesses navigating remote work and global wars—Professor Alzola empowered us to dissect multifaceted challenges inherent to leadership roles.

Professor Alzola’s approach to fostering empowered dialogue amidst controversy is commendable, especially in an era characterized by polarizing discourse. He instilled a sense of commitment and critical thinking, equipping me with the acumen to confront the myriad complexities of leadership in an ever-evolving global landscape.

What was your favorite course as an MBA? The Alternative Investments course I took, led by Professor Kevin Mirabile, was a standout class. Professor Mirabile navigated numerous alternative investment assets through both textbook concepts and enlightening guest lectures by industry leaders.

Guest speakers were distinguished investors in New York City real estate, private credit, and emerging sectors such as legal cannabis. We even had a speaker fly in from Los Angeles to discuss investing in music and movie royalties. The course helped me to demystify the opaque nature of the private markets through real-world anecdotes that offered invaluable insights into navigating the evolving financial landscape amid rising interest rates.

During the latter part of the semester class content focused on Exotic Alternatives, a subject Professor Mirabile explores in his book, Exotic Alternative Investment. In my final paper, I evaluated Tokenized Blue-Chip Art as a compelling investment avenue for institutional investors. It was my favorite school project from an intellectual value and practical information standpoint. I also thoroughly enjoyed and benefited from listening to all of the unique, exotic investment ideas my peers came up with.

The robust class dialogues and networking engagements with industry stalwarts have convinced me to consider a career in alternative investments. As I embark on my professional journey with an asset management firm offering diverse alternative investment products, this course has served as a compass, helping me to chart my long-term trajectory within the organization. Moreover, I am honored to have been awarded a scholarship by Professor Mirabile, recognizing academic excellence and facilitating my pursuit of the Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA) Level I examinations this spring.

I highly recommend this course to anyone seeking a competitive edge in alternative investments. The course content, guest speakers, and overall experience were exceptional and invaluable to my personal and professional growth.

What was your favorite MBA event or tradition at your business school? One of my favorite traditions at the Gabelli School is the Peer Mentorship Program, which reflects the institution’s commitment to holistic student development. This program assigns selected second-year MBA students the role of mentor to guide and support first-year students based upon their career goals. I’ve had the privilege of experiencing this tradition from both perspectives.

During my first year, my mentor was pivotal in my academic and professional journey, offering invaluable interview preparation and skill enhancement guidance as I navigated multiple rounds of internship interviews. Their support boosted my morale on particularly stressful days and enabled me to accentuate my strengths and address areas for improvement with targeted preparation.

In my second year, I was honored to be appointed a peer mentor to five first-year MBA students by Gabelli’s Career Center. It has been deeply gratifying to pay forward the mentorship I received and contribute to the growth and success of my peers. Through weekly one-on-one and group sessions, I provide tailored support in interview preparation, career decision-making, and balancing academics and recruitment activities.

The Peer Mentorship Program embodies Fordham’s educational philosophy of “Cura Personalis,” which emphasizes the holistic development of students. This tradition underscores the school’s commitment to fostering a supportive and collaborative learning environment where students can leverage the experiences and insights of their peers to navigate the challenges of business education and career advancement effectively. It reflects the school’s dedication to nurturing well-rounded individuals equipped to excel in a dynamic and competitive business landscape.

Looking back over your MBA experience, what is the one thing you’d do differently and why? Reflecting on my MBA journey, if I could change one thing, it would be to embrace my leadership qualities from the outset. When I entered the program, I grappled with imposter syndrome, doubting whether I possessed the attributes to stand out among a cohort of accomplished individuals. Despite this uncertainty, I was determined to seize the opportunity and immerse myself in activities that pushed me beyond my comfort zone.

As I actively engaged in class discussions and sought networking opportunities, I gradually realized my untapped potential to make a meaningful impact. Witnessing the validation of my contributions by peers and professors bolstered my confidence and propelled me forward. However, I acknowledge that I could have alleviated much of the unnecessary anxiety by embracing my leadership qualities earlier.

Looking back, I recognize the importance of trusting in my abilities from the outset and leveraging them to their fullest extent. By doing so, I would have navigated my MBA experience with greater assurance and purpose, maximizing the opportunities for growth and professional development from day one. Ultimately, my journey has taught me the value of self-belief and the transformative power of stepping into one’s leadership potential without hesitation.

What is the biggest myth about your school? The prevailing misconception about the Fordham Gabelli School of Business is the belief that its small class size hinders opportunities to secure positions in top-tier organizations. However, my experience contradicts this notion entirely.

While our MBA cohort comprises approximately 60 students, the school’s intimate size does not impede our access to prestigious opportunities. While it’s true that some companies may prioritize larger schools for campus visits, Fordham leverages its tight-knit alumni network, particularly in New York City’s premier organizations, and the caliber of the student body to compensate for this.

The camaraderie within our cohort has been instrumental in navigating the demands of networking, recruiting, and academics. I could always rely on my peers for support, even when balancing demanding networking calls and missed classes. Despite facing a challenging year for internship recruitment, I and many of my peers successfully secured positions at our target companies.

Through the Alumni in Residence program, I received valuable career guidance from alumni working in the industry and had a supportive mentor through the Peer Mentorship program. I also met a comprehensive array of accomplished individuals through leadership roles in two clubs and by attending events organized by other clubs and professional bodies on campus.

Overall, my experience at Gabelli has debunked the myth surrounding small class sizes, demonstrating that with determination, networking prowess, and the support of our robust alumni network, students can excel and thrive in their careers.

What did you love most about your business school’s town? It’s challenging to pinpoint a single aspect I love most about New York City because there are countless reasons why I adore it. However, if I had to choose one, it would undoubtedly be the city’s unparalleled diversity and the pervasive “can do” attitude among its inhabitants.

New York City attracts a mosaic of individuals from all walks of life, each contributing to its vibrant tapestry of finance, technology, arts, cuisine, and entertainment. As someone who seeks continuous growth, the city’s dynamic environment fosters a culture of relentless pursuit and resilience, where stories of individuals overcoming challenges to achieve remarkable success abound.

I moved to the city just before my graduate studies began. Having lived in numerous locations, New York City stands out as my favorite. I particularly enjoy the plethora of eclectic food options; I and two friends from school try to sample a new restaurant every two weeks. The city does not just offer boundless opportunities but also energizes and motivates me during challenging times. It is an endless source of inspiration and empowerment, driving me to push my boundaries and pursue excellence in all endeavors.

What surprised you the most about business school? The most surprising revelation about business school was that my experience and success depended entirely on my drive and commitment. I embraced this responsibility wholeheartedly, enabling me to thrive and excel in a highly competitive environment.

Business school was the perfect platform to discover my innate ability to multitask and manage time effectively. I attribute this to my commitment and attentiveness in all endeavors. Actively participating in class discussions allowed me to absorb material more rapidly, minimizing the time required for coursework outside of class.

Balancing academic pursuits with professional responsibilities was another unexpected challenge. While attending classes full-time, I concurrently worked as a graduate assistant during my initial semesters and transitioned to a full-time internship during my third semester. Despite the demanding schedule, I have maintained a GPA of 4.0 and gained invaluable industry experience through hands-on internships.

In addition to academic and professional engagements, I immersed myself in various extracurricular activities. I co-founded the Gabelli Product Management Club, built the Club’s roadmap, and gained support from industry professionals through corporate outreach. I am also a board member of the Fordham Real Estate Club, serve as a peer mentor to five first-year MBA students, and represent my cohort in interactions with the business school administration.

Despite my many commitments, I forged strong connections with my peers. International trips to London and Lisbon provided not only insight into the business landscapes of these cities, but also facilitated lasting bonds among classmates. Attending networking events further enriched my experience, allowing me to cultivate and maintain meaningful connections.

Business school is enriching if you have the drive. It helped me to recognize the impact of my initiative and dedication to my academic, professional, and social endeavors. It is possible to “do it all” with the right attitude and commitment.

Which MBA classmate do you most admire? The MBA classmate whom I deeply admire is Thomas (Tom) Hutton. While collaborating on numerous group projects and leadership committees, I appreciated his unwavering dedication to excellence and reliability.

Tom consistently demonstrated his commitment to delivering exceptional results, contributing thoughtful insights, and producing high-quality work in all of our group projects. As a team player, he effortlessly navigated diverse personalities, fostering an environment of respect and collaboration. While we sometimes disagree, we both have the acumen to admit when the other person is right, creating a formidable partnership.

Tom’s involvement in the affordable housing industry before he enrolled in graduate school ignited my own interest. His passion for the subject inspired me to delve deeper, and through his network, I secured an interview for my current internship opportunity.

Tom is one of our cohort’s top performers, possessing a rare blend of ambition and intuition to translate his aspirations into tangible achievements. His collaborative nature exemplifies effective leadership, and I am glad I have a strong working relationship with him.

What are the top two items on your professional bucket list? The top two aspirations on my professional bucket list are the following:

1. Expand my network in the asset management industry: As I embark on my journey in the asset management sector, one of my primary goals is cultivating a robust network of industry professionals. I have initiated this process by connecting with alumni and individuals I encountered during my internship. However, I am committed to continually broadening my network, fostering meaningful exchanges of ideas, and staying informed about industry trends. Establishing trust and delivering consistently high performance are foundational elements in serving customers effectively in this industry.

2. Pursue international opportunities in asset management: I want to immerse myself in diverse global markets and understand customers’ unique financial requirements across different regions within the asset management realm. Working in markets outside the United States offers an invaluable opportunity to gain insights into varied economic landscapes, the ability to navigate diverse regulatory frameworks, and the chance to engage with a spectrum of customer bases. By embracing international experiences, I aim to broaden my perspective, enhance my adaptability, and position myself as a formidable candidate for future leadership roles within the industry.

What made Basu such an invaluable addition to the Class of 2024?

“We are writing to wholeheartedly endorse Basundhara (Basu) Parasar as a nominee for the Poets and Quants Best and Brightest List. As members of the faculty and administration at the Gabelli School of Business at Fordham University, we have had the privilege of witnessing Basu’s remarkable contributions to our academic community, student body and beyond.

Throughout her tenure at Fordham, Basu has consistently demonstrated leadership, dedication, and commitment to academic excellence and service. Her extensive involvement in extracurricular activities, coupled with her outstanding academic achievements, truly sets her apart as an exemplary candidate for this prestigious recognition.

Basu’s impact within our community is evident through her role as Co-Founder and Vice President of the Gabelli Product Management Club. In this capacity, she has demonstrated her exceptional organizational skills and her ability to inspire and lead her peers towards shared goals. Moreover, her election as Student Representative for her cohort underscores the high regard in which she is held by her peers, as well as her natural aptitude for building meaningful relationships and fostering collaboration.

Additionally, Basu’s commitment to service is shown by her role as a Peer Career Advisor to first-year MBAs and as a Peer Ambassador for the Responsible Business Center. In these roles, she has demonstrated her unwavering dedication to supporting her peers in their professional development and promoting ethical business practices.

Beyond her contributions within the university, Basu’s professional achievements further underscore her talent and potential. Her success as an MBA Summer Associate at Blackrock is a testament to her remarkable adaptability, strategic acumen, and ability to deliver high-quality outcomes in complex and dynamic environments. Her outstanding performance during the internship, coupled with the praise she received from her manager, speaks volumes about her abilities and potential for future success.

Currently, Basu is interning at Catholic Homes, where she is making meaningful contributions towards addressing the urgent need for affordable housing in New York City. Her dedication to leveraging her skills and insights to make a positive impact in the community is truly commendable and reflects her deep sense of social responsibility.

Basu comes from a remote region of Assam, India, where economic opportunities are limited. Her adaptability, drive, willingness to embrace challenges, and desire to contribute to the community around her will ensure her success in the years to come.

In conclusion, we are confident that Basu Parasar is exceptionally deserving to be included in the Poets and Quants Best and Brightest List. Her outstanding academic achievements, exemplary leadership, and unwavering commitment to service make her a truly exceptional candidate. It is with great enthusiasm and confidence that we endorse her nomination for this prestigious recognition.”

Linda Reals
Associate Director of Career Advising
Gabelli School of Business, Fordham University

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