Simran Shroff

Vanderbilt University, Owen Graduate School of Management

“Weekend warrior tackling Netflix queues and real-world challenges.”

Hometown: Mumbai, India

Fun Fact About Yourself: I was ten when I experienced my first bungee jump. Since then, I enjoy indulging in thrilling activities including skydiving, scuba diving and cliff diving.

Undergraduate School and Major: University of Mumbai and The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Assistant Manager, Nykaa (India’s largest beauty retailer)

What has been your favorite part of Nashville so far? Why? My favorite aspect of Nashville has been its dynamic blend of a friendly small city vibe and the vibrant energy of a larger metropolis. The music scene is undoubtedly a standout, contributing to the city’s lively atmosphere. Exploring different neighborhoods has been a highlight, with Broadway offering a distinct experience compared to the trendy vibes of the Gulch. It’s the perfect mix – the warmth of a small city coupled with the endless opportunities and excitement that come with a bigger urban setting. Nashville has truly provided me with the best of both worlds.

Aside from your classmates and location, what was the key part of Vanderbilt Owen’s MBA programming that led you to choose this business school and why was it so important to you?
I chose Vanderbilt Owen’s MBA program because of its unique mod system. Each semester is split into two halves, letting you dive into a bunch of different courses and explore what interests you. The coursework is extremely in-depth despite the shorter course durations, giving you a solid learning experience. Together with the strong community, the unique academic structure makes the MBA program at Owen truly special!

What course, club or activity have you enjoyed the most so far at Vanderbilt Owen? The Closing Bell event at Vanderbilt Owen, a cherished tradition in my MBA journey, is the highlight of my week. Every Thursday, as the school week concludes, the entire Owen community gathers in the courtyard to revel in the camaraderie, accompanied by delightful drinks and food. What makes this special is the engaging themes that change weekly, offering students a peak into diverse cultures and traditions from around the world. Closing Bell provides a unique opportunity for everyone to unwind, forge meaningful connections, and foster a sense of community.

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: I worked on the introduction of The Ordinary, a renowned global skincare brand, to the Indian beauty market—a significant milestone for Nykaa. This marked the platform’s largest-ever brand launch, amplifying our presence in the beauty industry. Steering the strategic planning, coordination, and execution of such a large project required intricate market understanding and precise navigation of challenges. The success of this launch not only expanded Nykaa’s product portfolio but also solidified our position as trendsetters in the ever-evolving beauty landscape in India.

Describe your biggest accomplishment as an MBA student so far? Forming a tight-knit crew in a new country. The connections I have formed with people from countries across the globe, learning about their unique experiences, and building a strong community here at Owen!

What has been your best memory as an MBA so far? My fondest MBA memory revolves around the annual Owen Holiday Party. The lively atmosphere, festive decorations, and the collective spirit of celebration made it a standout experience. The party not only marked the culmination of the semester but also provided a perfect opportunity to unwind and forge stronger connections with my MBA peers.

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