Prashant Patro

Emory University, Goizueta Business School

“Early-riser, avid planner, part-time singer, hiker and massive Lord of the Rings geek.”

Hometown: Bhubaneswar, India

Fun Fact About Yourself: While working at a dog boarding facility for a few weeks, I learned how to teach basic commands to puppies.

Undergraduate School and Major: B.Sc. in Physics (Honors) from Delhi University and an MBA in Finance from Symbiosis International University

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Senior Analyst, Investment Banking at Bank of America (BofA), Mumbai

What makes Atlanta such a great place to earn an MBA? There are three main reasons. One, the rigorous nature of MBA curriculum contrasts with the moderately paced life in Atlanta. This allows students to take a pause and self-reflect on their leanings and goals – a must for business leaders. Second, Atlanta is also a hub for banking and investing community in the South, boasting the attendance from major financial institutions with deep ties to the Goizueta community. The Dean and faculty are also well connected with leaders within Atlanta’s financial circle. Lastly, Atlanta is a global cultural melting pot with localities such as the Arts District in Midtown, Buford Highway and Decatur offering a variety of global cuisine, art and entertainment options – another big plus.

Aside from your classmates and location, what was the key part of Emory Goizueta’s MBA programming that led you to choose this business school and why was it so important to you? Reflecting on my experience and aspirations, I realized a strong foundation of leadership skills is paramount for impactful professional and personal growth. Goizueta nurtures world leaders through its experiential learning modules (e.g., Leadership Reaction Course, Goizueta Advanced Leadership Academy, IMPACT) embedded throughout the coursework. This differentiates Goizueta over other business schools in the country. My second priority is to build a strong network and friendships during these two years. The deliberate small size of the Goizueta MBA program helps foster these relationships in a very meaningful way.

What course, club or activity excites you the most at Emory Goizueta? I am excited to experience the Goizueta IMPACT program. Here, we put the theory to practice by solving a real-time business challenge. I am also looking forward to attending the Alternative Investments course by Professor Klaas Baks. I have always been curious about private funding and real estate investments and this course will set the right foundation. Being a mountain person, I want to explore hikes and treks in the southern Appalachian Mountains.

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: In 2019, due to my significant contribution on a large cross-border IPO deal, my business division launched a pilot program, sending analysts overseas to actively participate in the execution process. This move opened opportunities for other associates to get directly involved in the overseas transactions. The program empowered us to make our mark on the global stage, unlocking new opportunities and forging connections that transcended boundaries.

Looking ahead two years, what would make your MBA experience successful? One of my key goals is to further accentuate my investment banking experience by pursuing a similar role in the US. I also want to explore and understand my personal leadership style using the extensive resources available at Goizueta. Having a concrete grasp of my strengths and shortcomings by the end of the program would make my MBA experience successful.

What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into Emory Goizueta’s MBA program? Speak with students, alumni, and faculty and identify how your personal goals align with what Goizueta offers. The key is to understand how this program will benefit you and vice versa. You’ve got this!