Nikhil Dawra

UC Irvine Paul Merage School of Business

“Enthusiastic photographer leveraging creativity to bring in different perspectives both at work and personal life.”

Hometown: Irvine, CA

Fun fact about yourself: In addition to indulging in a single sitting of a two-pound cake and relishing it, I also established a digital law journal company in India that generated a revenue of $450,000 in the previous year.

Undergraduate School and Degree: VIT University, India. I pursued bachelor’s in technology as Computer Science my major.

Where was the last place you worked before enrolling in business school? I was working with BlackRock, biggest asset management firm in world managing assets worth trillions USD. I started as an intern before moving to Analyst and then Associate in a span of 4 years.

Where did you intern during the summer of 2023? I was working for Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) in San Jose.

Where will you be working after graduation? I will be joining Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) in San Jose as a Full Time Product Manager.

Community Work and Leadership Roles in Business School:

President Of Product Club: My stint as a product manager in 2023 enlightened me about the essential skills for success in this role. Returning for my second year as the President of the Product Management Club, I aimed to impart my knowledge to incoming students. Taking leadership of the club, I organized events to not only educate students about product management but also provide insights from industry experts. Leveraging my connections, I arranged for a seasoned product manager from Google to speak at our campus this past fall. The positive outcome of this event motivated me further, leading to more initiatives such as securing case workshops for first-year students and organizing a panel discussion for Women’s Day, focusing on women in product.

Student Ambassador: Reflecting on my journey, I vividly remember the significant impact student ambassadors had on me, guiding me via the GMAT club, emails, and info sessions, ultimately convincing me that Merage was the ideal choice for my career aspirations. Eager to pay it forward, I aimed to leverage my communication and leadership skills as a student ambassador to attract top talent for future cohorts. My goal was not only to assist them in navigating the MBA process, but also to contribute to the prospective MBA community. Additionally, I actively enriched student life by participating in department events such as welcome days and summer toolboxes, striving to support the community in any way possible.

VP of International Students Relations: As the Vice President of International Student Relations (ISR) within the Merage Student Association, I assist international students with any queries they may have. Additionally, as a member of the MSA board, I collaborate with fellow board members to organize community events like Halloween for the entire Merage community.

Mentor: As a mentor to an undergraduate woman with an interest in Product Management, my dedication to women’s empowerment motivated me to assume this role. I support her in crafting resumes and navigating the business school landscape. Committed to meeting monthly or as needed, I find fulfillment in this non-transactional mentor-mentee relationship, viewing it as a meaningful way to contribute to the community.

In conclusion, my involvement in various leadership roles and community work during my time in business school has been both fulfilling and impactful. Through positions such as President of the Product Management Club, Student Ambassador, Vice President of International Student Relations, and Mentor, I’ve had the opportunity to leverage my skills and experiences to benefit others. Whether it’s organizing events, guiding prospective students, supporting international peers, or mentoring aspiring professionals, my commitment to contributing positively to the community remains steadfast. Furthermore, my participation in charitable events and activities like beach cleanups reflects my broader dedication to making a difference beyond the confines of academia.

Which academic or extracurricular achievement are you most proud of during business school? Throughout my journey in business school, one of my most fulfilling experiences has been serving as a student ambassador. This role holds a special place in my heart as it allows me to pay forward the invaluable guidance and support, I received from Harshita and Brahmarshi, at the time ambassadors, during my own decision-making process. Their mentorship played a pivotal role in steering me towards Merage, and I am providing that same level of assistance to prospective students. As an ambassador, I am driven by a deep-seated commitment to fostering inclusivity and diversity within our community. This includes not only welcoming and guiding prospective students from diverse backgrounds, but also advocating for these core values in every aspect of our student life. From organizing events that celebrate cultural diversity to ensuring that every individual feels heard and valued, I see myself as a steward of Merage’s commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for all.

* Representing the MBA program as an ambassador is a testament to my leadership and communication skills, showcasing my ability to inspire and guide prospective students.

* Serving as an ambassador provides me with the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by sharing my experiences and insights, helping others navigate their own path to success in the program.

* It’s a privilege to contribute to the growth and reputation of the MBA program, knowing that my efforts play a part in shaping the future of the community and fostering a culture of excellence and inclusivity.

It is for the reasons that I am very proud of my role as a student ambassador.

What achievement are you most proud of in your professional career? One of the achievements I’m most proud of in my professional career is founding and leading the digital subsidiary, www.modernlawjournals.com, for Modern Law House Pvt. Ltd. This venture allowed me to combine my passion for business with my expertise in technology, resulting in impactful outcomes. Through my leadership, I spearheaded the development and execution of a comprehensive product strategy, culminating in the creation of a cutting-edge Minimum Viable Product (MVP) and Software as a Service (SaaS) platform tailored specifically for law journals.

Utilizing my deep understanding of technology trends and market dynamics, I translated market requirements into actionable items, ensuring that our offerings resonated with our target audience. This strategic approach, coupled with my effective management of in-life products, included gathering customer feedback, and addressing issues, yielded significant success for the organization.

Furthermore, my keen analysis of market trends and competitor offerings allowed me to provide invaluable insights that informed our product pricing and marketing strategies. This proactive stance resulted in the acquisition of over 100 clients within just two months and a remarkable increase in quarterly turnover by 40%. Additionally, I had the privilege of showcasing our product’s offerings to esteemed Judges of the High Court of Allahabad, which directly contributed to substantial sales revenue of $450k.

Moreover, I took great pride in mentoring and managing a dedicated team of seven professionals, equipping them with the necessary tools and guidance to effectively handle client issues. Through collaborative efforts and a commitment to continuous improvement, we ensured a seamless experience for our clients while driving innovation and delivering tangible results. This achievement underscores my ability to leverage technology, foster team collaboration, and drive organizational success in a competitive business landscape.

What makes this achievement truly significant to me is the transformative effect it had on both the organization and its clients.

Why did you choose this business school? I chose UCI Merage because of the reasons stated below:

First, the personalized digitally driven curriculum provides the skillset to thrive as a distinguished leader in the digitally driven economy. The MBA at Merage allows one to have a unique set of experiences and skills at the intersection of technology and business, irrespective of the pre-MBA background. At Merage, one learns the best use case of technology and analytics tools to develop competitive strategies for digital business models and deliver value-accretive solutions for the future employer.

Second, the choice of specializations, STEM curriculum and Centre of excellence. At Merage, one gets to specialize in very diverse fields, allowing one to pivot into an altogether new industry. From Healthcare to Real Estate, Merage has a lot of options to specialize in and the electives’ choices allow us to tailor our curriculum from the second quarter itself. The Centre of Excellence is an opportunity to network with like-minded people, learn the nuances of developing new digital strategies or products by industry experts and keep abreast with the latest technological trends.

Third, the diverse close-knit community and location – Orange County. I always speak about the small class size allowing me to have lasting relationships with every individual and utilizing the diverse alumni network to unleash professional opportunities. The OC serves a variety of national and global corporations and its proximity to LA and the Bay Area makes it easier to network and explore opportunities.

Last, apart from the ranking, the world-class faculty or ‘Strategic thought leaders’, such as Professor John Joseph, who did his MBA from Wharton School and PhD from the Kellogg School of Management. Faculty members stay abreast of the latest trends and push us to make us thought leaders.

Who was your favorite MBA professor? My favorite MBA professor is Professor John Joseph. Professor Joseph’s extensive academic background, combined with his practical experience in managerial positions across various sectors, makes him an exceptional educator. His dedication to teaching is evident through the numerous awards he has received for his instructional prowess.

What truly sets Professor Joseph apart is his ability to bridge theory with real-world applications. His research focuses on organizational designs for innovation, decision making, and growth, providing invaluable insights that enrich classroom discussions. Moreover, his experience outside academia, including consulting engagements with renowned organizations like General Electric and Samsung Electronics, brings a practical perspective to his teachings.

I particularly appreciate Professor Joseph’s Strategic Management course, where he provides rigorous conceptual frameworks and techniques to analyze industry structures, firm capabilities, and business portfolios. His emphasis on understanding the complexities of strategic decision-making in dynamic environments resonates deeply with me. Through his guidance, I’ve gained invaluable skills in identifying opportunities, managing industry transformations, and navigating disruptive technologies.

Overall, Professor John Joseph’s commitment to excellence in teaching and his ability to inspire students to think critically and strategically make him my favorite MBA professor. His impact extends far beyond the classroom, shaping future leaders equipped to tackle the challenges of today’s fast-moving business landscape.

What was your favorite course as an MBA? My favorite course during my MBA program thus far has been Negotiation. This course delved into the intricate art and science of securing agreements between parties to optimize mutual gains. Negotiation is a skill that we utilize daily, whether in business deals, personal interactions, or even deciding who cleans the kitchen. However, despite its ubiquitous nature, many of us have limited knowledge of effective negotiation strategies and psychology.

What made this course so impactful was its practical approach. Through a series of simulations and debriefings, we were immersed in various negotiation scenarios that mirrored real-life situations. Each simulation highlighted essential concepts and allowed us to experiment with different strategies and tactics. Moreover, the course provided valuable frameworks for analyzing negotiation situations and developing strategic plans to negotiate effectively.

The format of the course, centered around negotiation exercises, ensured active participation and engagement from students. We were required to come prepared for each negotiation session and submit planning documents beforehand. The debriefings that followed allowed us to reflect on our performance, learn from our mistakes, and analyze the relationship between different negotiation strategies and outcomes.

Overall, the Negotiation course not only enhanced my negotiation skills, but also boosted my confidence in navigating complex negotiations. It provided me with valuable insights into understanding and predicting others’ behavior, which is crucial in both professional and personal contexts. This course was a transformative experience that equipped me with practical tools and strategies that I continue to apply in my career.

What was your favorite MBA event or tradition at your business school? My favorite MBA tradition at my business school was the Intensive Week, a four-day boot camp that provided an immersive experience into the world of case-solving and team dynamics. As a former software engineer transitioning into the business world, this event was particularly impactful as it marked my first exposure to case studies within an MBA context.

During the Intensive Week, we were grouped into core teams and tasked with solving two challenging cases over the course of four intense days. This event not only tested our analytical and problem-solving skills, but also encouraged collaboration and teamwork. It was an opportunity to bond with my team members, learn about each other’s strengths and weaknesses, and navigate through the complexities of real-world business scenarios together.

What made the Intensive Week so special was its reflection of the collaborative and hands-on learning environment fostered by our business school. It exemplified the school’s commitment to providing practical, experiential learning opportunities that prepare students for the challenges of the business world. By immersing us in real-life business situations and encouraging teamwork and collaboration, the Intensive Week underscored the importance of practical application and interpersonal skills in addition to academic knowledge.

Overall, the Intensive Week was not only a memorable event but also a transformative experience that exemplified the ethos of our business school. It provided a glimpse into the collaborative and supportive community that defines our MBA program, setting the stage for a rewarding and impactful academic journey.

Looking back over your MBA experience, what is the one thing you’d do differently and why? Looking back on my MBA experience, if there’s one aspect I would approach differently, it would be prioritizing participation in a residential trip to another country through my school. Unfortunately, my visa status prevented me from taking advantage of such an opportunity during my time in the program. Recognizing the profound importance of international exposure, I now understand the immense value these trips offer in broadening perspectives and enriching the overall MBA journey.

Moreover, these trips provide unparalleled networking opportunities and the chance to forge meaningful connections with peers, industry professionals, and potential collaborators from around the globe. Beyond expanding professional networks, international residencies inspire creativity, innovation, and a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity. Thus, if given the chance to revisit my MBA journey, I would seize the opportunity to participate in an international residential trip, recognizing its potential to shape my personal and professional growth in profound ways.

What did you love most about your business school’s town? I admire Irvine for its exceptional dedication to preserving nature and promoting community well-being. The city’s commitment to maintaining open spaces like Limestone Canyon and Bommer Canyon reflects a deep-seated pledge to environmental conservation. Additionally, the availability of extensive hiking and biking trails, including the award-winning Jeffrey Open Space trail, showcases Irvine’s commitment to providing residents with opportunities for outdoor recreation and enjoyment. Furthermore, Irvine’s well-planned parks and resort-style amenities within residential villages contribute to a high quality of life and foster a strong sense of community among residents. The city’s strategic location, with its proximity to major attractions in Los Angeles and San Diego, adds to its allure, making Irvine an ideal place to live and thrive. Overall, Irvine’s blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and community-oriented planning makes it a truly admirable place.

What surprised you the most about business school? What surprised me the most about business school was the dedication and effectiveness of the employment relations team. I was astounded by the sheer amount of effort they put into connecting students with top companies on campus. From organizing Bay Area treks to facilitating numerous virtual sessions, their commitment to securing valuable opportunities for students was truly impressive. Additionally, I was pleasantly surprised by the level of support and resources available for career development. The employment relations team went above-and-beyond to ensure that students had access to networking events, workshops, and one-on-one coaching sessions to enhance their job search strategies. Their unwavering dedication made me realize the immense value of the business school’s network and resources in shaping our professional journeys.

Which MBA classmate do you most admire? The MBA classmate I most admire is Adam Rozwadowski. His journey from the sports and entertainment industry to the tech sector is truly inspiring. With nearly a decade of experience in sports and entertainment, Adam has demonstrated remarkable adaptability and a thirst for new challenges. Despite his extensive background in a different field, Adam recognized the potential of combining his skills with an MBA education to pivot into the tech industry.

What sets Adam apart is his proactive approach to seizing opportunities and leveraging his diverse skill set. His ability to transition into a new industry demonstrates resilience, strategic thinking, and a willingness to learn. Moreover, Adam’s dedication to continuous growth and professional development is evident in his role as a researcher for the 2022 Winter Olympics at NBC Sports and his position as a producer and editor for remote contractor projects. Adam’s journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of education and the importance of embracing change in pursuit of one’s goals.

What are the top two items on your professional bucket list?

The top two items on my professional bucket list are:

1. Launching a tech company dedicated to enhancing financial services accessibility for underrepresented communities. By leveraging innovative technologies and tailored solutions, I aim to address the unique financial needs and challenges faced by underrepresented groups. This venture aligns with my passion for promoting financial inclusion and social equity, empowering individuals to achieve greater economic well-being.

2. Deepening my understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) from a product manager perspective. I aspire to delve into the intricacies of AI technology, exploring its potential applications and implications within various industries. By acquiring expertise in AI product management, I aim to harness this transformative technology to drive positive change and innovation, ultimately contributing to the advancement of AI-driven solutions that benefit society as a whole.

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

“It is a privilege to write about what makes Nikhil an invaluable addition to the Merage MBA Class of 2024. Nikhil has been a leader in his class from the start of the MBA Program. During his first quarter of business school, Nikhil took on the role as student ambassador working with the admissions office to help prospective students learn about Merage. He leveraged his strong communication and leadership skills to attract top talent to Merage and many incoming students received his support in navigating the MBA process. Nikhil has made it his goal not only to answer questions about Merage and getting an MBA, but he has worked hard to create a prospective MBA student community to bring together this group of people before they start their degree. Nikhil took an active role in planning ‘Welcome Days’, leading a ‘Summer Toolkit Webinar Series’ and worked hard to support the incoming class.

Nikhil has also taken a leadership role as President of the Product Club at Merage and has tried to enhance and grow this club. Nikhil has leaned on his summer internship experience as a Product Manager at HPE to better understand the essential skills for this type of role and during his second year, Nikhil has managed a diverse board to help plan and develop events, workshops, and opportunities for students to continue to learn from industry experts and grow and develop their skills. From arranging PM speakers, to securing case workshops, to organizing panel discussions for Women’s Day specifically focusing on women in product, Nikhil has worked hard to meet the diverse needs of the Merage students and to create a sense of community within the Product Club. Nikhil has also taken on serving as a mentor for undergraduate women interested in product management careers.

In support of International Students at Merage across all programs, Nikhil has taken on the Vice President of International Students Relation position within the Merage Student Association and has assisted international students with any queries they may have. As a Merage Student Association board member, he has collaborated with fellow board members to organize community events for the entire Merage community.

I am really impressed by Nikhil’s constant dedication and commitment to the school and enhancing the student experience for many years to come. Nikhil has worked tirelessly to serve as Student Ambassador, Product Club President, mentor, and VP of International Student Relations. While all these accomplishments and leadership opportunities are incredibly impressive on their own, I believe what truly sets Nikhil apart is his collaborative approach and willingness to coach and mentor others around him as well as serve as a connector for the community. Nikhil has spent a lot of time and effort creating a sense of community for current Merage students and incoming Merage students, all while focused on improving their experience. Nikhil is a strong leader with a drive to continue to enhance and contribute to any organization he is part of. Nikhil has made a large impact on the Merage Student and has truly been an invaluable part of the Class of 2024!”

Leaat Modiano
Associate Director of Career Services
The Paul Merage School of Business

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