Prerna Luthra

Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad

“Innovative and curious, always eager to learn and explore new things.”

Hometown: Delhi, India

Fun Fact About Yourself: Before joining IIMA, I spent a year doing research at New York University

Undergraduate School and Major: MS in Computer Science; BS in Computer & Systems Engineering – Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York, USA

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Advisory Software Engineer, IBM, New York City, NY, USA

Aside from your classmates, what was the key part of IIM Ahmedabad’s MBA programming that led you to choose this business school and why was it so important to you? The key aspect of IIM Ahmedabad’s MBA program that attracted me was the fact that the program did not disclose grades to recruiters. This policy indicated that the focus was more on learning rather than merely achieving good grades. As a generation, we are often told to prioritize getting good grades, but the freedom to concentrate on actual learning was a significant advantage for me. This approach allowed me to choose and prioritize what mattered most to me, whether it was extracurricular activities, exploring entrepreneurial interests at IIMA Ventures, or other personal interests.

What has been your favorite course or extracurricular activity at IIM Ahmedabad? What has been the most important lesson that you have learned from it? My favorite extracurricular activity at IIM Ahmedabad has been serving on the Speaker Series committee. This role has provided me with the unique opportunity to invite and engage with renowned leaders from various fields. Ensuring that my batchmates gain valuable insights from these interactions, while also providing a positive and engaging experience for the speakers, has been a significant responsibility. Managing diverse stakeholders, including my peers and esteemed speakers, has honed my skills in balancing the interests and expectations of everyone involved.

What makes Ahmedabad such a great place to earn an MBA? One of the standout features of studying in Ahmedabad is the food. As a vegetarian, I find it to be a true paradise. The city offers an incredible variety of vegetarian options, from traditional Gujarati dishes to a wide range of other vegetarian delights. This makes dining out a wonderful experience, adding a unique and enjoyable aspect to life while pursuing an MBA here.

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: My career has been marked by several significant milestones, each of which I value highly. However, the most notable one has been securing a job at IBM right after graduation. This achievement was a dream come true, as I had always envisioned working there, especially after their Watson computer system competed on Jeopardy. I also always wanted to work in New York City, and when IBM leased the Astor Place building in Manhattan, it felt like a dream coming true. I would imagine myself working there day and night, not realizing that this dream would soon become a reality.

Describe your biggest accomplishment as an MBA student so far: As an MBA student, my biggest accomplishment so far has been effectively managing the intense workload without becoming frustrated. The MBA program has taught me many valuable lessons, with one of the most important being efficient time management and prioritization. When I first began the program, I felt overwhelmed, but over time, I have become better at prioritizing and picking my battles wisely.

What is your class’s favorite hangout away from school? Why do you gather there? Our class’s favorite hangout away from school is definitely LKP (Louis Kahn Plaza). Despite the occasional flickering lights in the adjacent corridor – which can be a bit eerie – the charm of the area remains intact. The greenery and open space make it a refreshing spot to relax and unwind.

What do you hope to do after graduation? After graduation, my long-term goal is to become an entrepreneur. I aim to start my own business and apply the skills and knowledge I’ve gained during my MBA program to create something impactful.

What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into IIM Ahmedabad? I would say that your journey up to this point has already set you apart. Whether you’re a software engineer, a CA, or an entrepreneur, your career achievements will help you secure that interview. Once you reach the interview stage, focus on demonstrating confidence in your skills while maintaining humility. It’s about showcasing your unique experiences and how they have prepared you for the challenges and opportunities at IIM Ahmedabad. Be authentic, articulate your passion, and show a willingness to learn and grow.

DON’T MISS: MEET THE MBA CLASS OF 2026: THE ‘DO ANYTHING, BE ANYONE’ COHORT